On May 12, 2025, Virat Kohli made the heartfelt announcement of his retirement from Test cricket, bringing to a close an incredible 14-year journey that truly transformed the landscape of Indian cricket. The 36-year-old took to Instagram to share his thoughts, saying, “As I step away from this format, it’s not easy — but it feels right. I’ve given it everything I had… I’ll always look back at my Test career with a smile.”
A Stellar Career
Kohli’s adventure in Test cricket kicked off in 2011 against the West Indies. Over the course of 123 matches, he racked up an impressive 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85, which includes 30 centuries and 31 fifties. This remarkable feat places him as India’s fourth-highest run-scorer in Tests, following legends like Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, and Sunil Gavaskar. As captain, he made history by leading India to their first-ever Test series victory in Australia during the 2018–19 season and propelled the team to the pinnacle of the ICC Test rankings.
The Decision to Retire
Kohli’s retirement announcement comes just days ahead of India’s squad reveal for the upcoming tour of England. His last Test series, the 2024–25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, was a tough one; despite scoring a century in the first Test in Perth, he only managed to accumulate 190 runs over five matches, with 85 of those coming in the last four Tests. Reports indicate that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) did not pressure Kohli to remain in the team; rather, they suggested he no longer fit in, which may have played a role in his decision to step away.
Reactions from the Cricketing World
Kohli’s announcement has sparked an outpouring of emotions from teammates and cricketing icons alike. Shubman Gill, a rising star in Indian cricket, shared a touching tribute on social media, reminiscing about watching Kohli bat when he was just 13 and expressing his deep admiration for the inspiration Kohli has been. Australian cricketer Steve Smith also sent a heartfelt message, recognizing Kohli’s immense contributions to the game.
A Legacy Beyond Numbers
Kohli’s influence on Indian cricket goes far beyond mere statistics. His bold leadership, focus on fitness, and unwavering determination have motivated a whole generation of cricketers. He introduced a new level of professionalism and intensity to the team, raising the bar for both performance and behavior. With his retirement, we’re witnessing the close of an era, leaving a gap that will be tough to fill.
Looking Ahead
Even though Kohli is stepping back from Test cricket, his impact on the game remains strong. His journey from a passionate young player to one of the sport’s all-time greats is truly inspiring. As Indian cricket moves into a new chapter, the groundwork laid by Kohli will keep guiding and inspiring future players.
Virat Kohli’s retirement from Test cricket isn’t just the end of a personal journey; it’s a pivotal moment in the story of Indian cricket. His contributions have molded the team’s identity and set a high standard for excellence. As fans and teammates say goodbye to “King Kohli,” his legacy will surely continue to shape the sport for many years to come.
