KL Rahul feels weird about playing Tests without Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. The experienced batsman says the team dressing room feels different now. He thinks young players must grab their chances.
India starts their five-match Test series against England on June 20th. The matches begin at Headingley ground in Leeds. This series kicks off the new World Test Championship cycle.
KL Rahul Missing the Big Stars
Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma stopped playing Tests in May 2025. Both legends decided to retire from the longest format. Rahul says he never played in a team without these two.
The Karnataka batsman has played over 50 Tests for India. He always had Kohli or Rohit in his team before. Rahul calls this feeling “a bit strange” for everyone.
“Virat and Rohit have been the pillars of Indian cricket for the last decade or so, and not having them around will be a huge miss. In my whole career so far, I have never walked into a team where there is no Virat or Rohit. In the 50-odd Test matches that I have played, either Virat or Rohit or both of them have been there. To walk into that dressing room feels a bit strange. But of course, you have to respect their decision”. Rahul said.
He praised both players for their amazing cricket careers. Kohli and Rohit gave Indian cricket so many happy moments. Their retirement marks the end of a golden era.
Time for Others to Shine
Rahul believes other players must step up their game now. The team lost two of its biggest pillars recently. Someone else needs to fill those important spots.
He respects the decision both veterans made about their futures. Rahul says their legacy will stay with Indian cricket forever. Now younger players get chances to prove their worth.
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Karun Nair returns to the Indian team after eight long years. He first played Tests in 2016 and scored 303 runs. Nair made that triple century in Chennai against England.
Nair recently scored a double-century for the England Lions team. He also played well in the IPL this season. Rahul likes Nair’s fighting spirit and county cricket experience.
Rahul Prepares for England Challenge
KL Rahul started preparing for England right after the IPL ended. He worked with his coach on batting techniques. English conditions always challenge visiting batsmen from other countries.
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Rahul calls England “a pretty good side” at home. He knows this series will test India’s young players. The team mixes experienced stars with new talented cricketers.
