KL Rahul Says Dressing Room Feels ‘Strange’ Without Kohli and Rohit, Urges Youngsters to Step Up for England Test Series
As Team India prepares for a high-stakes five-match Test series against England starting this Friday, wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul has acknowledged the significant void left by Test stalwarts Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Both legends announced their retirement from the longest format earlier this year, marking the end of an era in Indian Test cricket.
Speaking to the Delhi Capitals media team, Rahul said the absence of Kohli and Rohit would be deeply felt but stressed that the moment presents a golden opportunity for India’s next generation.
“Virat and Rohit have been the backbone of Indian cricket for more than a decade. I’ve never entered a dressing room without one or both of them in my entire Test career. So yes, it feels strange,” said Rahul. “But they’ve given their all for the country. Now it’s our turn to carry that legacy forward.”
Kohli, who amassed 9,230 runs in 123 Tests, retires as India’s fourth-highest run-scorer in Test cricket. Rohit Sharma, known for his elegant stroke play and captaincy, also leaves behind a legacy that shaped India’s recent Test dominance.
Karun Nair’s Comeback Draws Praise
Rahul also hailed the return of Karun Nair, who is making a long-awaited comeback to the Indian Test squad after eight years. Nair, 33, recently made headlines with a double century against the England Lions in the first unofficial Test in Canterbury, proving his form and hunger.
The Karnataka batter burst onto the international scene in 2016, scoring a historic unbeaten 303 in just his third Test against England in Chennai. However, after a brief run, he was dropped due to a string of low scores and has since been working his way back through domestic and county cricket.
“We started playing cricket together at the age of 11. We’ve seen each other through highs and lows,” Rahul reflected. “What stands out is his resilience. Despite all setbacks, he never gave up. His performances over the last couple of years show that he’s ready again.” Rahul also highlighted Nair’s time in the UK playing County cricket as a key factor in his evolution as a more rounded player.
Young Team, Big Challenge
On his own preparations, Rahul shared that his focus shifted immediately after the IPL season, during which he had an impressive run with the Delhi Capitals.
“England is always a tough place to play Test cricket. They’re a quality team at home, and we know the challenge ahead,” he said. “This is a young Indian side, but full of potential. We’ve started working early to get into the rhythm.”
The opening Test at Headingley, Leeds, will also mark the beginning of the 2025–26 World Test Championship cycle for both teams, adding further significance to the series.
