Virat Kohli’s retirement from Test cricket has left Indian cricket fans with a mix of emotions — pride, nostalgia, and a looming sense of uncertainty. Over his illustrious Test career, Kohli not only amassed over 8,800 runs in the format but also carried the weight of the team’s middle order through some of the most challenging overseas tours. His aggressive approach, relentless discipline, and ability to convert starts into big scores made him one of the most consistent batters of his era.
To put things in perspective, Kohli ranks among the top 5 Indian players with the most runs in Test cricket, a list dominated by names like Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, and Sunil Gavaskar. Now, with his absence, the big question arises: Who will carry the baton forward?
While cricket experts continue to analyze replacements, fans too are engaging in discussions across platforms. With the rise of opinion trading apps, users can now share their cricketing insights — like who will be the next Test batting star — and even earn rewards for accurate views. These platforms are becoming popular among passionate fans who wish to be part of the ongoing cricketing conversation in a more engaging way.
Potential Players to Fill the Void of Virat Kohli
Shubman Gill
Shubman Gill has often been touted as the future of Indian cricket, and for good reason. His strokeplay is effortless, and he has already shown glimpses of brilliance in Test cricket, especially in the historic Gabba Test win in 2021. Although he has recently been shifted to the No. 3 position, where Kohli mostly batted at No. 4, his adaptability and temperament make him a serious contender to fill the middle-order void.
KL Rahul
Often seen as an enigma in red-ball cricket, KL Rahul has had a stop-start Test career. However, he has delivered crucial performances in tough conditions, like the England tour of 2021, where his century at Lord’s stood out. Rahul’s ability to play both as an opener and in the middle order adds versatility.
Sarfaraz Khan
If numbers in domestic cricket mean anything, then Sarfaraz Khan should already be in the XI. With an average of over 68 in First-Class cricket and multiple double centuries, Sarfaraz has forced the selectors to take notice. His recent Test debut showed glimpses of promise, and he could be India’s long-term answer at No. 4 or No. 5.
Ruturaj Gaikwad
Primarily known for his exploits in white-ball cricket, Ruturaj Gaikwad is slowly being groomed for the longer format. His elegant strokeplay and calm demeanor have impressed the selectors. He has already captained India in limited-overs games and is part of the leadership conversation for the future.
Cheteshwar Pujara
Let’s not forget the man who once stood shoulder to shoulder with Kohli during some of India’s most memorable Test wins abroad — Cheteshwar Pujara. Although dropped in recent times, Pujara remains a master of red-ball cricket, especially when it comes to soaking pressure.
The Bigger Picture: More Than Just a Replacement
Replacing Virat Kohli is not just about filling a batting position. It’s about replacing leadership, energy, and mental resilience. Kohli was more than just a prolific scorer — he was the heartbeat of India’s fighting spirit in the red-ball format. Whoever takes over must bring their own strengths rather than try to imitate the great man.
This is why fan conversations on opinion trading platforms are so vibrant. It’s no longer about who scores the most runs in Test cricket, but who carries the mindset, the discipline, and the spark that Kohli brought to the dressing room.
Conclusion
Virat Kohli’s Test retirement marks the end of an era. As Indian cricket looks ahead, there is no dearth of talent — from promising youngsters like Shubman Gill and Sarfaraz Khan to experienced campaigners like KL Rahul. What remains to be seen is who will rise under pressure and make the No. 4 spot their own.
Fans, analysts, and platforms alike will continue to debate, discuss, and share their views — not just in drawing rooms and TV studios, but also on apps where opinion trading allows everyone to be part of the cricketing narrative. Because in the end, replacing a legend like Kohli isn’t just a team decision — it’s a national conversation.
