Sanjay Jagdale Remembers Criticism of Kohli’s 2008 Selection

Former national selector Sanjay Jagdale on Monday reflected on the early days of Virat Kohli’s international career, recalling that some critics had raised doubts over his selection when he was first picked for the Indian team in 2008.

Kohli, who announced his retirement from Test cricket earlier in the day, made his ODI debut against Sri Lanka on August 18, 2008. His inclusion in the squad was initially met with skepticism from some quarters, with questions raised about his readiness for the international stage.

Jagdale, who was part of the national selection panel at the time, revealed that Kohli’s selection came at the recommendation of then chairman of the selection committee, Dilip Vengsarkar. Despite the initial criticism, Kohli quickly silenced his doubters with his consistent performances and later went on to become India’s most successful Test captain.

“Those who questioned his selection back then are forgotten now. Virat has proven himself as one of the greatest players India has ever produced,” said Jagdale.

Kohli’s impact on Indian cricket, both as a player and as a leader, is undeniable, and his decision to retire from the Test format marks the end of an era in Indian cricket.