Geoffrey Boycott: Rohit Sharma’s Impact on Test Cricket Compared to Virat Kohli
Former England opener Geoffrey Boycott has shared his thoughts on the recent retirements of India’s cricket stars, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, from Test cricket. According to Boycott, Rohit might not be as greatly missed as Kohli when it comes to the longest format of the game.
Both players decided to hang up their Test boots in May this year, just before India’s tour of England, marking a significant shift in the Indian cricket landscape, which now looks towards Shubman Gill to lead the team.
In his recent column for The Telegraph, Boycott acknowledged Rohit’s impressive batting skills but pointed out that he lacks the natural athleticism that Kohli possesses. He believes that Rohit would find it challenging to open the innings in England, with its unpredictable movement of the new ball. "Rohit is a fantastic batsman and can be a stunning stroke player, but his Test record, while good, doesn’t quite reach the heights of Kohli’s. He’s not as naturally athletic, and opening in England is a tough task," Boycott commented.
Kohli’s Retirement: A Bigger Blow
Boycott expressed that the loss of both players could significantly affect India’s chances in England. He emphasized that Kohli, being a key player in all formats, would be the more substantial loss. Boycott suggested that the intense schedule of international cricket may have contributed to Kohli’s decision to retire, saying, "The retirements hurt India’s chances. Kohli has been their best batsman across formats. The heavy international calendar can wear a player down, and if the mind is not fresh, it can lead to fatigue."
In conclusion, while both Rohit and Kohli’s departures mark the end of an era for Indian cricket, Boycott believes that Kohli’s absence will be felt the most in the upcoming challenges.
Published On: June 18, 2025
