Virat Kohli Announces Test Retirement: End of a Glorious Era
“It’s been 14 years since I first wore the baggy blue in Test cricket. Honestly, I never imagined the journey this format would take me on. It’s tested me, shaped me, and taught me lessons I’ll carry for life.”
“There’s something deeply personal about playing in whites. The quiet grind, the long days, the small moments that no one sees but that stay with you forever.”
“As I step away from this format, it’s not easy — but it feels right. I’ve given it everything I had, and it’s given me back so much more than I could’ve hoped for.”
“I’m walking away with a heart full of gratitude — for the game, for the people I shared the field with, and for every single person who made me feel seen along the way.”
I’ll always look back at my Test career with a smile.”
#269, signing off. - Virat Kohli
In a heartfelt announcement on May 12, 2025, Indian cricket stalwart Virat Kohli declared his retirement from Test cricket, concluding a remarkable 14-year journey in the game’s longest format. At 36, Kohli shared his decision via social media, expressing deep gratitude for the experiences and lessons the format imparted.
A Glorious Test Career
Debuting against the West Indies in 2011, Kohli’s Test career is adorned with significant milestones. Over 123 matches, he amassed 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85, including 30 centuries and 31 fifties. His highest score, an unbeaten 254, stands as a testament to his prowess.
As captain, Kohli led India in 68 Tests, securing 40 victories—the most by any Indian Test captain. Under his leadership, India achieved its first-ever Test series win in Australia during the 2018–19 tour, marking a historic moment in Indian cricket.
Recent Challenges and Decision to Retire
Kohli’s decision follows a period of introspection after India’s 3-1 series loss to Australia in the 2024–25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Despite a century in the opening Test, he managed only 190 runs across five matches, averaging 23.75.
Reports indicate that the BCCI had discussions with Kohli regarding his place in the Test team, leading to his decision to step away.
The Road Ahead
With Kohli’s departure, India faces the challenge of rebuilding its Test squad. Young talents like Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant are expected to play pivotal roles as the team prepares for the upcoming England tour starting June 20, 2025.
Kohli’s legacy in Test cricket is indelible. His passion, discipline, and commitment have inspired a generation of cricketers and fans alike. As he continues to represent India in limited-overs formats, the cricketing world bids farewell to one of its finest in the whites.
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Virat Kohli's Test Retirement: A Graceful Exit from the Whites
Virat Kohli Announces Test Retirement: End of a Glorious Era
In a heartfelt announcement on May 12, 2025, Indian cricket stalwart Virat Kohli declared his retirement from Test cricket, concluding a remarkable 14-year journey in the game’s longest format. At 36, Kohli shared his decision via social media, expressing deep gratitude for the experiences and lessons the format imparted.
A Glorious Test Career
Debuting against the West Indies in 2011, Kohli’s Test career is adorned with significant milestones. Over 123 matches, he amassed 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85, including 30 centuries and 31 fifties. His highest score, an unbeaten 254, stands as a testament to his prowess.
As captain, Kohli led India in 68 Tests, securing 40 victories—the most by any Indian Test captain. Under his leadership, India achieved its first-ever Test series win in Australia during the 2018–19 tour, marking a historic moment in Indian cricket.
Recent Challenges and Decision to Retire
Kohli’s decision follows a period of introspection after India’s 3-1 series loss to Australia in the 2024–25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Despite a century in the opening Test, he managed only 190 runs across five matches, averaging 23.75.
Reports indicate that the BCCI had discussions with Kohli regarding his place in the Test team, leading to his decision to step away.
The Road Ahead
With Kohli’s departure, India faces the challenge of rebuilding its Test squad. Young talents like Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant are expected to play pivotal roles as the team prepares for the upcoming England tour starting June 20, 2025.
Kohli’s legacy in Test cricket is indelible. His passion, discipline, and commitment have inspired a generation of cricketers and fans alike. As he continues to represent India in limited-overs formats, the cricketing world bids farewell to one of its finest in the whites.