Senior Congress leader Shashi Tharoor sparked discussion about India’s Test cricket performance against England by highlighting the absence of former captain Virat Kohli, as India faced a crucial loss in the ongoing series. Taking to social media, Tharoor emphasized how Kohli‘s leadership, intensity, and batting prowess could have influenced the match outcome.
Shashi Tharoor’s Tweet
“Is it too late to call him out of retirement? Virat, the nation needs you!” Tharoor’s viral social media post expressed, noting that he had missed Kohli throughout the series, particularly during this Test match.The discussion has brought attention to India’s batting depth and on-field energy in critical situations, despite team management supporting the current squad.India, trailing 1-2 in the series, aimed for victory in the fifth and final Test to achieve a 2-2 draw. After scoring 224 in their first innings, they limited England to 247, maintaining a slim 23-run deficit.Yashasvi Jaiswal’s century helped India post 396 in their second innings, setting England a target of 374 runs.England’s response was strong, with Harry Brook (111) and Joe Root (105) forming a crucial 195-run partnership for the fourth wicket after initially struggling at 106 for three wickets.Play was halted due to rain in the final session with England at 339/6, requiring just 35 runs for victory and the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy with a potential 3-1 series win.
Poll
Do you think India would have performed better if Virat Kohli was in the squad?
Captain Shubman Gill has performed well with over 700 runs in his first series as captain. Other batsmen including K.L. Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Rishabh Pant have also contributed significantly.However, the team has notably missed Kohli’s experience and aggressive approach, both in batting and field presence, during his short break from international cricket for personal reasons.The ongoing debate about Kohli’s absence continues to influence discussions surrounding Indian cricket, highlighting the impact of one of India’s most celebrated cricketers.
