In a surprising announcement on May 12, 2025, Virat Kohli declared his retirement from Test cricket, bringing an end to a remarkable 14-year career in the longest format of the game. The 36-year-old cricketer, widely regarded as one of the modern greats, made the announcement via a heartfelt post on his social media accounts, just ahead of India’s five-match Test series against England scheduled to begin on June 20, 2025.
Kohli’s decision comes shortly after Rohit Sharma, who succeeded him as Test captain, also stepped down from the red-ball format. This dual exit of two of India’s most experienced batsmen marks a significant transition for the Indian Test team as they embark on the new World Test Championship cycle.
A Glorious Test Career
Virat Kohli’s Test journey began in June 2011 against the West Indies in Kingston. Over 123 Test matches, he amassed 9,230 runs at an impressive average of 46.85, including 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries. His highest Test score was an unbeaten 254 against South Africa in 2019. Kohli stands as India’s fourth-highest run-scorer in Test cricket, only behind Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, and Sunil Gavaskar.
Some of his notable Test career achievements include:
- Most Successful Indian Test Captain: Kohli led India in 68 Test matches, securing 40 wins, the most by any Indian captain.
- Double Century Record: He holds the record for the most double centuries (7) by an Indian batsman in Test cricket.
- Overseas Dominance: Kohli led India to their first-ever Test series victory in Australia in 2018-19 and also guided the team to memorable Test wins in England and South Africa.
- ICC Test Mace: Under his captaincy, India held the ICC Test Championship mace for a prolonged period, reflecting their dominance in the format.
Kohli’s Statement on Retirement
In his emotional retirement message, Kohli expressed his gratitude for the journey Test cricket had taken him on:
“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 will always look back at my Test career with a smile. #269, signing off.”
End of an Era
Virat Kohli’s retirement undeniably marks the end of a significant era in Indian cricket. He was a passionate ambassador for Test cricket, often emphasizing its importance and leading by example with his fierce competitiveness and unwavering commitment. His aggressive captaincy and high fitness standards played a key role in transforming the Indian Test team into a formidable force.
While his recent form in Test cricket had seen some fluctuations, his overall contribution to the format remains immense. His absence will create a void in the Indian batting lineup and leadership, requiring the team to adapt and find new leaders and performers.
The cricketing world has reacted with an outpouring of tributes to Kohli’s Test career, acknowledging his significant impact on the game. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the International Cricket Council (ICC) also acknowledged his contributions and legacy.
Kohli is expected to continue playing One Day International (ODI) cricket and remains a vital part of the Indian Premier League (IPL). However, his retirement from Tests closes a glorious chapter in his career and in the history of Indian cricket.
