Virat Kohli Retires from Test Cricket: End of a Glorious Chapter in Indian Cricket

Virat Kohli, one of India’s most iconic cricketers, has announced his retirement from Test cricket, marking the end of a 14-year career that redefined Indian batting and leadership in the longest format. The 36-year-old informed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) of his decision ahead of the upcoming five-match Test series in England, bringing down the curtain on a legacy that includes 9,230 runs in 123 Tests at an average of 48.7, with 30 centuries and 31 fifties.

A Glorious Test Career

Kohli’s Test journey began in 2011 against the West Indies, and he quickly established himself as a cornerstone of India’s batting lineup. Known for his intensity, unmatched fitness, and relentless drive, Kohli led India to historic achievements, including their first Test series win in Australia in 2018-19. His peak years from 2016 to 2019 were exceptional, averaging 75.93 in 2016, 75.64 in 2017, 55.08 in 2018, and 68.00 in 2019, amassing 3,596 runs with 14 centuries during this period.

As captain in 68 Tests, Kohli transformed India into a formidable Test side, topping the ICC Test rankings and securing memorable victories abroad. His career-best unbeaten 254 against South Africa in 2019 remains a testament to his dominance, though recent years saw a dip in form, with his average dropping to 32.56 over the last 24 months.

Virat Kohli’s Test Retirement: A Thoughtful Farewell

Kohli’s retirement follows a challenging Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia in 2024-25, where he averaged just 23.75 across five Tests, struggling against deliveries outside the off-stump. The decision comes on the heels of teammate Rohit Sharma’s Test retirement earlier in May 2025, prompting speculation about a transitional phase for Indian cricket. Sources indicate Kohli had been contemplating his Test future since the Australia tour, and despite the BCCI urging him to reconsider due to the crucial England series starting June 20, he chose to step away.

In a heartfelt statement on X, Kohli reflected, “I’ve given it everything I had, and it’s given me back so much more than I could’ve hoped for.” The International Cricket Council (ICC) paid tribute, stating, “Whites off, crown intact. Virat Kohli bids goodbye to Test cricket, leaving behind an unmatched legacy.”

Beyond Tests: Kohli’s Cricketing Future

While Kohli retired from T20 Internationals after India’s 2024 T20 World Cup victory, where he earned Player of the Match in the final for a match-winning 76, he has not confirmed his plans for One-Day Internationals (ODIs). Following India’s Champions Trophy win in March 2025, Kohli dismissed ODI retirement rumors, saying, “The team is in good hands,” and expressed enthusiasm for playing with younger talent like Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer. He also hinted at a potential T20I return for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, jokingly noting he might “sneak in for one game” if India reaches the final.

Kohli remains a dominant force in the Indian Premier League (IPL), leading the run charts in IPL 2025 for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). Despite social media rumors in April 2025 claiming he would retire from the IPL, fact-checks confirmed these were baseless, and Kohli continues to excel, dispelling notions of an immediate exit from competitive cricket.

Legacy and Transition

Kohli’s Test retirement leaves India with an inexperienced middle-order, especially with veterans like Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane absent and R Ashwin retired. Shubman Gill is the frontrunner to replace Rohit Sharma as Test captain, signaling a new era. Fans and former players have flooded X with tributes, with one user noting, “Virat Kohli’s hunger for runs redefined Indian cricket. His legacy will inspire generations.”

Reflecting on his career, Kohli recently shared at an RCB event, “I’m not playing for achievements anymore, just the pure joy of the game.” His candid admission about the challenges of aging—“You can’t do in your mid-30s what you did in your mid-20s”—resonates with fans who admire his resilience.

A Nation Salutes

Kohli’s Test retirement marks the end of an era, but his influence endures. From leading India to global dominance to inspiring a fitness revolution in cricket, his contributions transcend statistics. As India prepares for the England tour under new leadership, Kohli’s absence will be felt, but his legacy as a modern batting great and fierce competitor will continue to shape Indian cricket.