Virat Kohli's retirement massive boost for England: Moeen Ali

New Delhi:  Former England all-rounder Moeen Ali believes Virat Kohli’s retirement from Test cricket is a “massive blow” to the format, hailing the Indian great as a “pioneer” whose passion and charisma brought fans to stadiums much like Sachin Tendulkar once did.

As India prepares for a stern five-Test challenge in England starting June 20 at Headingley, Moeen acknowledged that the absence of Kohli and Rohit Sharma is a significant setback for the visitors — and a timely advantage for the hosts.

“It’s a massive blow to Test cricket. Virat was the one pioneer, the one guy in Test cricket that always pushed the format,” Moeen told Sky Sports. “He’s done so much for the game, especially in India. I think after Sachin, he was the guy everybody came to watch. He filled out stadiums.”

Praising Kohli’s intensity and leadership, Moeen added, “He had an amazing record, was a brilliant player to watch — very competitive and a brilliant captain. The style he played with inspired many. It’s a big blow not just for India, but for the game.”

Kohli, India’s most successful Test captain, retired earlier this week alongside Rohit Sharma, leaving a gaping leadership and experience vacuum just ahead of a crucial series that also marks the start of the 2025-27 ICC World Test Championship cycle.

Moeen, who himself retired from international cricket in 2023 but continues to play T20 franchise cricket, didn’t shy away from stating that England would benefit greatly from the absence of India’s two senior-most Test batters.

“Definitely, I think it’s a massive boost for England,” Moeen said. “Two top players, who’ve been to England a few times on tour, so they have the experience. I remember Rohit playing really well the last time. The character they have, the leaders they are — both of them have captained India in Test cricket — so yeah, a massive loss for the team.” (IANS)

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