Virat Kohli has officially retired from Test cricket bringing an end to a remarkable journey in the longest format. He played 123 matches scoring 9,230 runs with 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries. His career was filled with unforgettable moments and performances that left a lasting mark on Indian cricket.
Kohli made the announcement on social media on Monday. His decision comes shortly after Rohit Sharma, how also declared his retirement from Test cricket last week.
In his heartfelt post, wrote: “It’s been 14 years since I first wore the baggy blue in Test matches. I never expected this format to shape my life the way it did. It challenged me, taught me and helped me grow.”
He added, “Playing in whites is deeply meaningful. The hard work, the long days, and those quiet moments on the field stay with you forever. Stepping away is tough, but it feels like the right time. I’ve given my all, and this journey has given me even more.”
Kohli expressed his gratitude for the game, his teammates and the fans. He said he would always remember his Test career with pride.
Kohli made his Test debut in 2011 against the West Indies. However, it was the tour of Australia later that year where he truly proved himself. While others struggled, Virat Kohli kept improving and scored his first Test century a brilliant 116 in Adelaide.
He later took over as India’s Test captain and became the most successful leader in the country’s history, winning 40 out of 68 matches. Globally he ranks fourth among Test captains with the most wins, behind Graeme Smith (53), Ricky Ponting (48) and Steve Waugh (41).
With 30 Test hundreds Kohli is the fourth-highest century-maker for India, after legends like Sachin Tendulkar (51), Rahul Dravid (36) and Sunil Gavaskar (34). He also holds the record for the most double centuries by an Indian seven in total.
As a captain he scored 20 centuries the most by any Indian leader in Tests. The next closest is Sunil Gavaskar with 11.
Virat Kohli had earlier stepped away from T20Is after India’s T20 World Cup win last year. His most recent appearance in ODIs was during this year’s Champions Trophy, where India, under Rohit Sharma’s leadership lifted the title.
As Virat Kohli retires from Test cricket, he leaves behind a legacy of passion, dedication and excellence qualities that inspired millions and raised the standards of Indian cricket.
