Kohli Felt Unbacked Before Test Retirement, Claims Mohammad Kaif

Former India batter Mohammad Kaif has offered a candid take on the Virat Kohli Test retirement, suggesting the star batter felt he lacked faith and support from people within the Indian camp. Kaif made the remarks on his YouTube channel while reflecting on Kohli’s post-retirement interviews.

Kohli announced his exit from Test cricket in May 2025, following India’s tour of Australia. He struggled for runs in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy after scoring a century in the Perth opener. Kaif said he sensed disappointment in Kohli’s demeanour and argued that, form aside, a player of his stature deserved backing.

A Player Known for Bouncing Back

Kaif is convinced Kohli would have staged a Test comeback had he stayed on. “He is known for comebacks,” the former cricketer said, pointing to the batter’s history of emerging stronger from lean patches. That pattern was visible again when Kohli delivered strong performances in the 2025 ODI series against Australia.

Thriving in ODIs with 2027 in Sight

Kohli continues to dominate the 50-over format. He recently struck an unbeaten 139 against West Indies and has added several centuries, fuelling talk that he could play beyond the 2027 ODI World Cup. His continued presence would also help young captain Shubman Gill, who can lean on his experience in the dressing room and in the middle.

Kaif’s comments have reopened the debate over how India’s senior players are managed during difficult phases. Kohli has not publicly endorsed the claim that he felt unsupported, so Kaif’s view remains his own interpretation of events.

For now, Kohli’s focus appears firmly on ODI cricket, where his form suggests the big runs are far from over.