Virat Kohli has officially announced his retirement from Test cricket, ending a legendary 14-year career in the longest format of the game. The 36-year-old broke the news via social media just days before India’s five-Test tour of England, starting 20 June.
Kohli’s decision follows closely after Rohit Sharma also retired from Test cricket earlier this week, signaling a new era for the Indian team.
“It’s been 14 years since I first wore the baggy blue in Test cricket,” Kohli wrote. “It’s tested me, shaped me, and taught me lessons I’ll carry for life.”
Kohli’s Glorious Test Legacy: Records and Milestones
Since making his debut against West Indies in 2011, Kohli has played 123 Tests, scoring 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85, including 30 centuries. He retires as India’s fourth-highest Test run-scorer, behind Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, and Sunil Gavaskar.
As captain, Kohli led India in 68 Tests, winning 40 — the most by any Indian skipper in history. Under his leadership, India reached new heights, including a historic series win in Australia.
“There’s something deeply personal about playing in whites… As I step away, it’s not easy – but it feels right,” Kohli added.
Struggles in Recent Years
Though Kohli remains a giant of the game, his form in Tests had declined in recent seasons. His last century — 100* against Australia in November — was his first in 16 months. Since January 2020, he scored only three centuries in 39 Tests, averaging just 30.72 in that period.
Despite the dip, his contribution to Indian cricket and the broader world of Test cricket remains unparalleled.
Cricket’s Greatest Showman Bows Out
BBC cricket analyst Stephan Shemilt described Kohli as “cricket’s greatest showman”, highlighting his flair, passion, and unmatched presence in the sport.
“As a leader, Kohli dragged the India Test side into the 21st century. He was the most important factor in upkeeping the relevance of Test cricket,” wrote Shemilt.
Kohli, widely considered part of the modern-day “Fab Four” alongside Joe Root, Steve Smith, and Kane Williamson, is the first to retire from Test cricket.
What’s Next for Kohli?
While he steps away from Tests, Kohli is expected to continue playing in one-day internationals (ODIs), where he remains one of the greatest ever. He had earlier retired from T20 internationals in 2024 after India’s World Cup victory.
As India rebuilds its Test squad for the future, fans will still look forward to seeing Kohli in the blue jersey on limited-overs occasions.
“I’ll always look back at my Test career with a smile,” Kohli concluded.
