Legendary Indian cricketer Virat Kohli has made the significant announcement of his retirement from Test cricket, effective immediately. This decision comes ahead of the highly anticipated five-Test series in England scheduled to start on June 20, following the recent retirement of skipper Rohit Sharma. At the age of 36, Kohli exits with an impressive record, having played 123 Tests and accumulated 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85.
Reflecting on his journey in the sport, Kohli expressed on social media, "It's been 14 years since I donned the blue for Test matches. I never anticipated how this format would mold my career. It has challenged me, shaped my character, and taught me invaluable lessons." Kohli previously retired from T20 internationals in 2024 after India's World Cup triumph but plans to continue competing in one-day formats.
Kohli’s Test debut was against the West Indies in 2011, and he later captained the Indian Test team in 68 matches, securing 40 victories—the highest for any Indian captain in the format. He noted, "There’s something profoundly personal about playing in whites. The long days and unseen moments will remain with me forever."
While Kohli is celebrated among cricketing legends like Joe Root, Steve Smith, and Kane Williamson, his recent form had waned, with his last century occurring in November against Australia. Although he achieved only three centuries in the 39 Tests played since January 2020, his stature remains undisputed.
Kohli’s influence transcends statistics; he has been pivotal in maintaining the relevance of Test cricket amidst the rise of T20 leagues. With his departure, significant changes are likely within the Indian Test squad, as a new generation prepares to take the field against England at Headingley.
As the cricketing world bids farewell to Kohli, fans and analysts alike recognize the considerable void his retirement creates, marking the end of a vibrant chapter in Test cricket history. Without him, the spectacle of the sport will undeniably feel diminished.
Reflecting on his journey in the sport, Kohli expressed on social media, "It's been 14 years since I donned the blue for Test matches. I never anticipated how this format would mold my career. It has challenged me, shaped my character, and taught me invaluable lessons." Kohli previously retired from T20 internationals in 2024 after India's World Cup triumph but plans to continue competing in one-day formats.
Kohli’s Test debut was against the West Indies in 2011, and he later captained the Indian Test team in 68 matches, securing 40 victories—the highest for any Indian captain in the format. He noted, "There’s something profoundly personal about playing in whites. The long days and unseen moments will remain with me forever."
While Kohli is celebrated among cricketing legends like Joe Root, Steve Smith, and Kane Williamson, his recent form had waned, with his last century occurring in November against Australia. Although he achieved only three centuries in the 39 Tests played since January 2020, his stature remains undisputed.
Kohli’s influence transcends statistics; he has been pivotal in maintaining the relevance of Test cricket amidst the rise of T20 leagues. With his departure, significant changes are likely within the Indian Test squad, as a new generation prepares to take the field against England at Headingley.
As the cricketing world bids farewell to Kohli, fans and analysts alike recognize the considerable void his retirement creates, marking the end of a vibrant chapter in Test cricket history. Without him, the spectacle of the sport will undeniably feel diminished.
