India poor run in Test cricket has once again come under the scanner after the team slipped into deep trouble in the ongoing Guwahati Test against South Africa. Former India cricketer Shreevats Goswami, who played alongside Virat Kohli in U19 and IPL, has openly questioned the mental toughness and attitude of the current team.
Goswami believes that the Indian Test side no longer shows the same hunger and fighting spirit that became its identity during Virat Kohli captaincy era.
“Virat Should Have Retired From ODIs, Not Tests” – Goswami Bold Claim
Goswami said on social media that Indian cricket is missing not just Virat Kohli batting, but the energy, aggression and belief he brought to the Test setup.
He wrote that Kohli should have continued playing Tests and taken a break only from ODIs if needed. According to him, Virat passion for red-ball cricket inspired the dressing room and gave the team the confidence to win anywhere in the world.
Ideally Virat should have left playing ODIs & continued playing test cricket untill he had nothing to give. Test cricket misses him. Not just as a player but just the energy he brought, the love & passion playing for 🇮🇳 where he made the team believe that they can win in any…
— Shreevats goswami (@shreevats1) November 24, 2025
Under Kohli, India developed a world-class pace attack, achieved historic overseas wins and dominated at home with unmatched consistency.
India’s recent Test performances raise real concerns:
- 0–3 whitewash in New Zealand in 2024
- Consolation 2–0 win vs West Indies
- Embarrassing loss against South Africa in Kolkata
- Now struggling badly in Guwahati after getting bowled out for just 201 runs
South Africa piled up 489 runs and later extended their lead beyond 320+, leaving India far behind in the contest For a team that once prided itself on fighting spirit, these repeated collapses indicate deeper issues.
Is the Team Lacking a Strong Leader?
Many fans feel that India has been unable to fill the leadership vacuum left after Kohli stepped away from Test cricket earlier this year. Kohli retired from Tests despite preparing through Ranji Trophy and being in excellent physical shape. His sudden announcement before the England tour shocked fans and former players.
Since Gautam Gambhir took over as head coach, India has already lost four Tests at home – a rare occurrence after years of domination. Goswami believes India needs not just runs but a strong personality who can bring intensity and push players to perform under pressure.
With India now facing the danger of another series whitewash within a year, the next steps of selectors, team management, and players will be crucial.
The question remains:
Does Team India still have the mindset to dominate Test cricket — or has Virat Kohli departure left a gap too big to fill?
