Sourav Ganguly stated that Virat Kohli retired because he knew the time was right, putting all fan theories to rest.
Sourav Ganguly Clarifies Virat Kohli’s Retirement: ‘He Knew It Was Time’
Sourav Ganguly has ended all speculation surrounding Virat Kohli’s sudden retirement from Test cricket, asserting that the former India captain made the decision on his own terms. Kohli officially retired on May 12, following a report that he had already informed the BCCI of his choice despite their efforts to change his mind.
In response to fan theories suggesting Kohli was forced out—especially after he returned to play Ranji Trophy following a poor series in Australia—Ganguly clarified that legends like Kohli always know when to step away. “Everyone says why. I know he didn’t have the best five years in Test cricket, but champions rediscover. He felt it was time to go,” Ganguly told PTI.
Drawing parallels with his own retirement at 37, Ganguly explained that though he was in top form in 2006–07, the time felt right as India looked ahead to younger talent for the 2011 World Cup. He said he left when people still wondered “why” rather than “why not”, and believes Kohli, too, chose to exit when he knew he had given his all.
‘Just 36 years old’: Ganguly surprised by Kohli’s decision
Reflecting on Virat Kohli’s surprise retirement from Test cricket, Sourav Ganguly acknowledged the shock felt by fans and pundits alike. “Everything has to come to an end. A lot of us got surprised with Virat Kohli retiring. Just 36 years old. Fit, although he still plays IPL and one-day cricket, it’s never the same,” Ganguly said.
The former India captain, who himself retired from Test cricket in 2008 after a farewell series against Australia, emphasized that every cricketer must eventually choose the right time to step away. “You have to finish playing someday, and for me, I thought it was the best time to finish, and I did,” he added. Ganguly’s final innings ended in a golden duck in Nagpur—yet he departed satisfied, on his own terms, much like Kohli.
