Virat Kohli Shines Against SRH, Ambati Rayudu Urge Selectors to Reconsider Him for Test Captaincy

New Delhi: A statement amid IPL 2026 has sparked a new debate in Indian cricket. The innings played by Virat Kohli against Sunrisers Hyderabad in the first match of IPL reminded the old times. And that innings rekindled an old debate. Former batsman Ambati Rayudu has given a big suggestion regarding Virat Kohli. Rayudu openly said in the post-match show that Virat Kohli should come back to Test cricket, and that too as a captain.

What did Rayudu say?

Rayudu said that he does not feel that he is near the end of his career. According to him, he still has five-six good years left in him. He should return to Test cricket, hopefully as captain. "He also added that Kohli is the best red-ball captain in Indian cricket and the way he is batting right now, his absence from Tests is a loss for Indian cricket.

Is there any merit in Rayudu's argument?

Rayudu also quoted his colleague Sanjay Bangar, both of whom were of the same opinion. The argument is that Kohli's Test captaincy record has been excellent. Under his leadership, India won the Test series in Australia, gave a tough fight in England and remained almost unbeaten at home. The aggressive style with which he fed the team is still remembered in Indian cricket.

What is Kohli's current form saying?

Kohli's innings for RCB against SRH in the IPL proved that his bat is not tired yet. His edge remains intact in white ball cricket. Seeing this, Rayudu and many experts like him feel that Kohli's magic can work in red ball also.

What does Kohli's record say?

When Kohli was the captain, India won abroad and the team's attitude looked very aggressive. Many people believe that the identity of the Test team changed during that period.

Who is in command of the team at present?

Currently, the responsibility of the test team is with Shubman Gill. Recently he has been given this role, in such a situation the matter of change of leadership has become a big issue in itself.

Has Kohli's form fueled the debate?

This discussion has intensified due to the way Kohli is batting in the IPL. His form shows that he can still play at the top level.

Now what next?

At the moment it is just a statement, but in cricket such statements often turn into big debates. If Kohli's performance continues, this issue is not going to end anytime soon.