Virat Kohli's recent retirement from Test cricket has been a major talking point in the cricketing world, with fans and experts alike weighing in on the possible reasons behind his decision. While Kohli himself has remained relatively quiet about the specifics, former Australia captain Mark Taylor has offered a unique perspective, suggesting that Kohli's anger during the recent series in Australia may have been a contributing factor.

Kohli, 36, announced his retirement last month, bringing an end to a remarkable 14-year Test career. He played 123 Test matches, amassing 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85, including 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries. He also holds the record for the most Test wins as an Indian captain, leading the team to victory in 40 out of 68 matches. Despite his achievements, Kohli's form had dipped in recent years, particularly in Test cricket, though he showed resurgence in 2023. This decline in form, coupled with the intense pressure and expectations that come with being a global sporting icon, may have taken a toll on the star batter.

Taylor's observation centers around a perceived change in Kohli's demeanor during the recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy series in Australia. He noted that Kohli seemed angrier than usual, a departure from the highly competitive but gentlemanly image he had previously projected. According to Taylor, "Last year, I saw a different Virat Kohli [in Australia]. An angry one. And I have never seen an angry Virat Kohli. I have seen a very highly competitive Virat Kohli, and I love that about him. I always saw the gentleman. Last year I saw a different Virat Kohli and I said a month ago that it is time for him to retire. And he did. Because once you get angry, you've got to get out."

Taylor suggests that this anger may have stemmed from Kohli's own high standards and the frustration of not meeting them. He alluded that Kohli realized that his time was up. He said "If you start getting angry, you are gone." The former Australian captain highlighted a specific instance during Kohli's last innings in the fifth Test in Sydney, where he appeared visibly frustrated after being dismissed.

Another theory, echoed by former Australia batter Greg Chappell, is that Kohli's retirement was driven by a realization that he could no longer summon the mental clarity required to succeed at the highest level. Chappell suggested that doubt had begun to creep into Kohli's mind, disrupting his decision-making and eroding the spontaneity that was once a hallmark of his batting.

Regardless of the specific reasons, Kohli's retirement marks the end of an era in Indian cricket. He leaves behind a legacy of passion, aggression, and unwavering commitment to the game. While his absence will undoubtedly be felt, his contributions to Indian cricket will be remembered for years to come. He will continue to play in the ODI format and the IPL. Experts believe that his brand value will continue to rise, and his focus on the IPL may actually boost the league's popularity.