Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma handed England a big advantage with retirement, claims Ex-captain

Former England all-rounder Moeen Ali made a huge statement on the retirements of Indian batters Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma ahead of the five-match Test series. The former cricketer stated that the absence of Virat and Rohit will be a big boost for England in the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27 cycle.

The retirements of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma surprised many, as both were anticipated to be part of India's squad for the England tour. With Shubman Gill expected to take on the captaincy, Team India’s young batting lineup will face a challenging task against English bowlers in pacer-friendly conditions.

It’s a Massive Boost for England - Moeen Ali on Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma's Retirement

Speaking on Sky Sports, Moeen Ali said that Virat and Rohit had faced challenges and successes on English soil. He added that their absence would be an advantage for England.

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“Definitely, I think it’s a massive boost for England. Two top players who’ve been to England a few times on tour, so they have experience,” said Moeen on Sky Sports.

“I remember Rohit playing really well the last time they were in England. 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,” he added.

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma's Performances in England Tests

Kohli struggled during the 2014 series but made a remarkable comeback in 2018, amassing runs. Rohit, on the other hand, delivered one of his best overseas Test performances during India's 2021 tour of England.

On the 2018 tour, Virat scored 593 runs from five Tests at an average of nearly 60, including two centuries. He scored 149 runs in the series opener that shattered the previous doubts about his ability to perform in English conditions.

During India's 2021 tour of England, Rohit was the best batter for India, amassing 368 runs in four Test matches at an average of 52.57. This tour cemented his reputation as a dependable performer in Test cricket, particularly in challenging overseas conditions.

After Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli Was the Guy Everybody Came to Watch - Moeen Ali

Moeen Ali stated that Virat Kohli's retirement was a huge setback for Test cricket. He compared Kohli to cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar in terms of influence. Moeen emphasized that Kohli, like Tendulkar, was the player who captivated crowds and brought attention to the game.

“It’s (Kohli’s retirement) a massive blow to Test cricket. He was the one pioneer, the one guy in Test cricket that always pushed the format. Amazing player, amazing career," he added.

“He has done enough. He’s done so much for the game itself, especially in India. I think after Sachin (Tendulkar), he was the guy everybody comes to watch and he filled out stadiums. Amazing record, a brilliant player to watch as well. The style he played with (was) very competitive and a brilliant captain as well. A big blow to Test cricket,” said Moeen.

Also read: Virat Kohli's replacement finalised! Anil Kumble announces India's No. 4 for England tour