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Sourav Ganguly confirmed Virat Kohli's Test retirement was his own decision, despite BCCI's attempts to persuade him otherwise. Ganguly acknowledged Kohli's choice, drawing parallels to his own retirement, emphasizing that every player understands their standing. While surprised by Kohli's relatively early departure at 36, Ganguly believes Kohli felt it was the right time, similar to his own exit.

Shubman Gill, 25, captains India's Test team for the first time against England at Headingley, marking a new era after Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli's retirements. Cheteshwar Pujara, now in broadcasting, visited the team during training. The team, coached by Gautam Gambhir, includes Kuldeep Yadav as the primary spinner. Weather may affect the match, which begins at 3:30 PM IST.

Former England skipper Alastair Cook observes that Virat Kohli and captain Rohit Sharma's Test retirements mark a significant shift in India's dressing room dynamics, creating a 'clean slate' for new leadership under Shubman Gill. Despite their recent form decline, Kohli and Sharma's absence removes unchallenged authority, potentially impacting team culture.