New Delhi: Virat Kohli's recent Test cricket retirement continues to be a significant topic of discussion in Indian cricket. His decision, announced shortly before the England series, surprised many, given his lack of prior indication and India's success under his leadership in Test matches.

The timing and the overall impact of his departure remain subjects of considerable debate.

Amid the usual discussions about fresh leadership, generational shifts, and red-ball readiness, a curious subplot has begun to emerge - one that's stirring more questions than answers. Why would someone walk away from Test cricket just days after seemingly sharpening their red-ball game? That's exactly what Australia women's captain Alyssa Healy pondered on the Willow Talk podcast. She had spent much of April and May in India, accompanying her husband Mitchell Starc during his stint with the Delhi Capitals.

Adam Peacock, an Australian broadcaster, hinted at something on his show, Willow Talk, suggesting insightful speculation rather than unsubstantiated rumor. "Given he doesn't exactly need to play the final, pack his bags, and get out to England. I was speaking to someone in the last week with a knowledge of the situation, and I think there's more to come in the whole story of the Gambhir-Kohli relationship," Adam Peacock said.

Following India's 2024 T20 World Cup triumph, Gautam Gambhir took the role of head coach. He subsequently led the team to victory in the Champions Trophy in March. Despite a previously documented strained relationship, Gambhir and Virat Kohli have appeared to reconcile, even participating in a joint interview after Gambhir's appointment. They have also been observed frequently interacting amicably within the team environment.

While publicly silent, some within the BCCI haven't ruled out Virat Kohli's potential return to the Indian cricket team. Arun Dhumal's recent public comments, though presented as a personal hope, hinted at the possibility of a future recall. Given Kohli's history of making unexpected decisions regarding his career, a return to the team remains a possibility.

While Virat Kohli's future remains uncertain, his international Test career is currently inactive. He's not been selected for the upcoming England series. His next anticipated appearance will be in August's ODI series against Bangladesh.