Virat Kohli retired from test cricket Monday after playing 123 matches in his glorious 14-year red-ball career.

Kohli made his test debut in 2011 against West Indies and has been India’s standout batter since Sachin Tendulkar’s retirement in 2013.

Kohli scored 9,230 runs including 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries at a test batting average of 46.85. He also led India in 68 test matches and was India’s most successful captain with 40 test wins.

But the Delhi-born India star's suddent call has startled former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly.

"Playing or leaving is your own decision. Both Virat and Rohit have left the game of their own free will. Both of them have had incredible careers."

While Rohit's retirement may not be surprising, Ganguly expressed his surprise at Kohli's decision, stating, "Yes, I am surprised."

On who will be the next in line for India's leadership, Ganguly said, "The selectors will take decisions as per their understanding. A lot must be thought about in terms of captaincy. Long-term thinking. Many are talking about Jasprit Bumrah. There are concerns about his injury. We will have to think about everything together."

Meanwhile, Ganguly also shed light and remained optimistic about Kolkata hosting the IPL final. "The final cannot be removed so easily! Efforts are underway to conduct the finals here by CAB. Nothing will be achieved by protesting and marching. Talks are ongoing with the board. CAB is having a great relationship with BCCI. Everything will be fine. I am optimistic, the final will be here," Ganguly said.

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