Legendary Indian cricketer Virat Kohli has chosen to retire from Test cricket, a decision that has sent ripples through the cricketing community. This announcement comes just a month before India’s highly anticipated five-Test series in England, which is set to commence on June 20. Kohli, aged 36, made the announcement following teammate and captain Rohit Sharma's decision to retire just days earlier.
With 123 Tests under his belt, Kohli has amassed an impressive 9,230 runs, averaging 46.85 throughout his career. "It’s been a remarkable 14-year journey with the baggy blue,” Kohli expressed on social media. “I never anticipated the valuable lessons and experiences that Test cricket would provide.”
Kohli had previously stepped away from T20 internationals in 2024 following India’s World Cup triumph, but he remains likely to engage in one-day internationals. He first donned the Test cap against the West Indies in 2011 and went on to become a leading captain for India, achieving 40 wins – the most by any Indian Test captain. “Playing in whites is a deeply personal journey,” he shared. “As I conclude this chapter, I do so with a heart full of gratitude for the game and the people around me.”
Regarded as one of the foremost batting talents of his generation alongside Joe Root, Steve Smith, and Kane Williamson, Kohli's legacy is particularly highlighted by his record of 30 Test centuries. Only legends like Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, and Sunil Gavaskar sit above him in terms of runs scored for India in Test matches, while Kohli leads his peers with 20 centuries as captain.
Despite his extensive achievements, Kohli's recent performances have been modest, with only one century in his last 15 innings and fluctuating averages. Chief cricket reporter Stephan Shemilt remarked on Kohli's extraordinary presence in the cricketing arena, noting that his impact transcends statistics. Kohli is viewed as a transformational figure who modernized the Indian Test team and upheld the relevance of Test cricket amid the rising popularity of T20 leagues.
As Kohli exits, following Rohit Sharma, a new era beckons for Indian Test cricket, with changes to the lineup anticipated for their next match in Headingley. While he may have stepped back from Test matches, Kohli’s influence and artistry in cricket will remain immortal, leaving fans to reflect on his contributions to the sport.
