India and England are locked in an intense battle in the fifth and final Test at the Oval. As the match enters its final day, India requires four more wickets to clinch victory while England needs 35 runs to seal the series. With the series level or close to being tied, both teams are under immense pressure. In the midst of this high-stakes contest, senior Congress leader and former cricketer Shashi Tharoor posted an emotional message calling for Virat Kohli’s return to Test cricket.

Shashi Tharoor Mourns Kohli’s Absence at a Crucial Juncture

Tharoor described missing Virat Kohli more than ever during this Test. In his social media post on X, he wrote that Kohli’s courage, passion, presence on the field, and match-winning batting might have tipped the balance. He asked rhetorically whether Kohli could still be called out of retirement, adding that the country needs him in this moment. The message resonated widely among cricket fans, who mourned the absence of their former captain in a tight finish.

Virat Kohli’s Retirement from Test Cricket Earlier in 2025

Virat Kohli had announced his retirement from Test cricket on 12 May 2025. In his farewell message on Instagram, he expressed that wearing the Test whites was deeply personal and formative. He said Test cricket taught him invaluable lessons and he had devoted his all to this format. Kohli added that the sport, in turn, rewarded him far beyond expectations. Since then, he has not played any more international Test matches.

Match Overview: England’s Advantage, India’s Fighting Spirit Returns

England seemed firmly in control of the fifth Test early on. Elegant centuries from Harry Brook and Joe Root defied India’s earlier efforts. Yet Indian bowlers delivered determined and skillful spells late in the day, bringing India back into contention. The Indian team’s resilience now sets the tone for a final day where momentum can shift dramatically.

India’s Final Day Challenge: A Test of Nerves and Strategy

India needs to claim four crucial wickets on the fifth day. England is just 35 runs away from victory. With the series standing at 2–1 in England’s favor, India has a narrow window to level the series. The Indian bowling attack must maintain tight lines, disciplined fielding, and relentless pressure. Captains and senior players must lead with tactical clarity, while India’s lower order may face a stern test if England puts on a final push.

The Appeal for Kohli: A Symbol of Inspiration and Leadership

Tharoor’s message reflects not just cricketing nostalgia but broader hopes for Indian cricket. Kohli represents grit under pressure. He has delivered memorable Test innings around the world. His presence could have steadied a nerve-stricken Indian side in this final phase. Fans across social media reacted passionately to Tharoor’s appeal, speculating whether a late return from Test retirement could rekindle India’s chances.

Broader Implications: Leadership Vacuum and Cricketing Culture

Kohli’s absence raises questions about India’s current leadership options. While the team includes talented players, none exude the same intensity and match-winning aura. Test cricket often hinges on individual brilliance when the team is under duress. With Kohli stepping away, there is a notable void in moments requiring emotional intensity and decisive action.

What Could Trigger a Kohli Return?

There are no formal signals from BCCI or Kohli about a comeback. But cricket authorities and fans alike wonder if performance-based recall is possible. If India falls short or loses narrowly, the pressure for rethinking leadership and middle-order experience could intensify. A late-season return in preparation for future series is not unprecedented in Indian cricket culture.

Final Verdict Awaits on a Day Full of Drama

Cricket analysts expect the match to be decided within a few hours of final day play. If India takes early wickets, the tide may swing decisively in their favor. Conversely, if England survives the morning session, small partnerships could inch them closer to victory. Each session holds a pivotal opportunity to clinch the result.

As India and England battle in the final hours of this intense Test, Kohli remains an absence felt deeply. Tharoor’s heartfelt appeal captures the emotional weight of this moment. Whether or not Kohli will play again, India’s resilience, strategy, and bench strength are under scrutiny. The final day of this Test is not just about wickets or runs—it is about legacy, national pride, and the lasting imprint of leadership in sport.

This final day promises drama, heartbreak, comeback stories, and possibly a test of character for Indian cricket. In such moments, the difference between victory and loss is measured not just in runs, but spirit and resolve.