Former India cricketer Robin Uthappa has questioned the timing and nature of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli's decision to step away from Test cricket, stating that their exits did not appear “natural.” Uthappa believes both senior batters still have enough in them to contribute meaningfully, especially with the ongoing World Test Championship cycle still in play.
'They still had this cycle left'
Speaking on his YouTube channel, Uthappa suggested that Rohit and Kohli looked far from finished as Test cricketers. From his perspective, their retirement lacked the gradual process phase typically seen when legends conclude their red-ball careers. While acknowledging that only the players themselves know the full context behind the decision, he maintained that, on the surface, the timing felt premature.
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Rohit Sharma and the workload concern
Uthappa felt Rohit Sharma may have benefited from a temporary break rather than a permanent goodbye to Test cricket. After a difficult Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, he believed Rohit should have taken six months off to focus on fitness and recovery. According to Uthappa, as cited by ANI, the dip in form was more about fatigue from excessive cricket than any decline in ability, and runs would have followed with time. "I don't know about forced surrender, but it did not feel like a natural exit. Sach toh unhe hi bolna padhega [They have to tell the truth]. I don't think it was natural. I felt Rohit Sharma should've taken a break for six months and worked on his fitness when he was not scoring runs in Australia. I did not doubt that he would score runs after that. It was just a matter of time. He played too much cricket. I felt they [Rohit and Virat Kohli] had this cycle left. It could be that we don't know what actually transpired. That they only have to share if they want. Have to wait for their good time whenever they feel like sharing," Robin Uthappa said on his YouTube Channel.
Domestic appearances and the recent ODI form
Both Rohit and Kohli featured in the Ranji Trophy last season for Mumbai and Delhi, respectively, further adding to the debate. Their willingness to play domestic red-ball cricket strengthened the argument that the appetite for the longest format had not completely disappeared.
Uthappa also highlighted their impressive ODI performances, particularly against South Africa, noting a visible hunger and sharpness in both players. Their strong numbers and match-winning contributions saw them finish as India’s top two run-getters in the format this year, reinforcing the idea that their competitive drive remains intact."I recently spoke to Rohit in person. He is in a relaxed place now; you can see the hunger back in Rohit and Virat's eyes. It is endearing to see as an international cricketer yourself, you know kuch gazab hone waala hai," he added as cited by ANI.
He concluded by saying that the renewed spark in both Rohit and Kohli suggests unfinished business, leaving fans hopeful that clarity around their Test exits may eventually emerge.
