The absence of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma from the forthcoming Test series in England, according to former England all-rounder Moeen Ali, will give the hosts a significant advantage. The 2025–2027 ICC World Test Championship cycle also starts with the five-match series, which begins at Headingley on June 20.

But two of the most recognizable names in Indian cricket will not be present. India was left without their seasoned mainstays at the top of the order when Rohit and Kohli announced their retirements from Test cricket earlier this week.

"Definitely, I think it's a massive boost for England. Two top players who've been to England a few times on tour, so they have experience. I remember Rohit playing really well the last time they were in England. The character they have, the leaders they (are), both of them have captained India in Test cricket, so yeah a massive loss for the team," the former England all-rounder told Sky Sports.

Moeen highlighted the vacuum left by Kohli's retirement in the longest format, not only for India but also for Test cricket worldwide. Moeen played in 68 Test matches for England, amassing over 3,000 runs and taking over 200 wickets with his off-spin. In 123 Test matches for India, Kohli amassed 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85, including 30 hundreds. He was the most successful Indian captain to date, leading his team to 40 victories in 68 Test matches.

"It's (Kohli's retirement) a massive blow to Test cricket. He was the one pioneer, the one guy in Test cricket that always pushed the format. Amazing player, amazing career.

"He's done so much for the game itself, especially in India. I think after Sachin (Tendulkar), he was the guy everybody comes to watch and he filled out stadiums. Amazing record, a brilliant player to watch as well. The style he played with (was) very competitive and a brilliant captain as well. A big blow to Test cricket," he said.

Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from IPL 2025,IPL Orange Cap, IPL Purple Cap, Most Sixes in IPL, Cricket, Sports and around the world.