London, May 12, 2025 – India’s cricketing legend, Virat Kohli, has announced his immediate retirement from Test cricket, just weeks before India’s five-Test tour of England, set to begin on June 20.
Kohli, 36, has been a monumental figure in world cricket, amassing 9,230 runs from 123 Tests at an average of 46.85. His decision comes shortly after fellow Indian cricketer, Rohit Sharma, also announced his retirement from Test cricket earlier this week.
Kohli shared the news with his followers on social media, reflecting on his illustrious 14-year journey in Test cricket. “It’s been 14 years since I first wore the baggy blue in Test cricket,” Kohli wrote. “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.”
While Kohli retired from T20 internationals after leading India to a World Cup victory in 2024, he is expected to continue representing his country in One-Day Internationals (ODIs).
Kohli’s Legacy in Test Cricket
Kohli made his Test debut in 2011 against the West Indies and quickly became a cornerstone of India’s batting lineup. Over the course of his career, he captained India in 68 Test matches, leading them to 40 wins — making him the country’s most successful Test captain.
The right-handed batter has accumulated 30 Test centuries, second only to Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, and Sunil Gavaskar for most runs by an Indian player in Test cricket. Additionally, Kohli holds the record for the most centuries by an Indian captain, with 20.
Kohli’s announcement also comes amidst a challenging phase in his Test career, with his most recent century coming in November 2024 against Australia in the first Test of the series, ending a 15-match drought without a ton. Since 2020, Kohli has averaged just 30.72 in Test matches, with only three centuries across 39 Tests during that period.
A Deeply Personal Decision
In his farewell message, Kohli expressed a deep connection to the game, noting the unique challenges and personal growth Test cricket has offered. “There’s something deeply personal about playing in whites,” Kohli added. “The quiet grind, the long days, the small moments that no-one sees but that stay with you forever.”
As he steps away from Test cricket, Kohli said he was filled with gratitude for the sport, his teammates, and the fans who supported him throughout his career. “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.”
A Global Batting Icon
Kohli has long been considered one of the finest batsmen of his generation, joining fellow icons Joe Root, Steve Smith, and Kane Williamson at the top of world cricket. His retirement marks the end of an era, with Kohli’s remarkable contributions to Indian and world cricket having left an indelible mark on the game.
While the news of Kohli’s departure from Test cricket is bittersweet, his legacy as one of the all-time greats of the sport remains firmly intact.
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