Former India batter Sanjay Manjrekar has once again defended his controversial comments regarding Virat Kohli’s retirement from Test cricket, reviving a wider debate on the perceived difficulty levels of cricket’s three formats. Manjrekar’s remarks follow Kohli’s recent decision to step away from the longest format after a demanding phase in his career, including a challenging series in Australia.
Speaking on the issue, Manjrekar reiterated his belief that Kohli opted to continue playing One Day Internationals because the format is comparatively less demanding than Test cricket. He expressed disappointment that Kohli did not persist with red-ball cricket, suggesting that Test matches place greater technical and mental demands on top-order batters. According to Manjrekar, Test cricket requires prolonged concentration, adaptability to varying conditions, and resilience over extended periods, qualities that are constantly tested in five-day matches.
Manjrekar also referred to historical trends in Indian cricket, pointing out that several accomplished ODI batters in the past preferred batting in the middle order when playing Test cricket. He argued that this reflected the additional challenges posed by the red ball, particularly against quality pace and swing bowling in overseas conditions. His comments, however, have drawn mixed reactions from fans and former players, many of whom have defended Kohli’s decision as a personal and professional choice.
Virat Kohli’s Test career has been widely regarded as one of the most successful in modern Indian cricket. Over more than a decade, he established himself as a consistent run-scorer and a highly competitive leader, playing a key role in India’s improved performances overseas. Kohli’s retirement from Tests marked the end of an era and prompted tributes from across the cricketing world.
Critics of Manjrekar’s remarks argue that labeling any international format as “easier” oversimplifies the demands placed on players. Limited-overs cricket, particularly ODIs and T20Is, requires different skill sets, including adaptability, innovative stroke play, and constant pressure to score quickly. Supporters of Kohli note that managing workload and extending career longevity are increasingly important considerations in modern cricket.
The debate highlights a broader discussion within the sport about how players prioritize formats amid packed international calendars. With franchise leagues, bilateral series, and major tournaments filling the schedule, elite cricketers are often required to make difficult choices to preserve form and fitness.
While Manjrekar has stood firm on his views, the conversation underscores the evolving nature of cricket and the differing perspectives on excellence across formats. Kohli has not responded directly to the comments, choosing instead to focus on his commitments in limited-overs cricket.
