Virat Kohli Announces Retirement from Test Cricket

In a big shock for Indian cricket fans, Virat Kohli has announced his retirement from Test cricket. The former Indian captain made the announcement just days before India’s five-match Test series against England, starting June 20.

Kohli, who is regarded as one of India’s finest Test batters, took to Instagram to share an emotional note. He reflected on his 14-year journey in the longest format of the game and said that while stepping away is not easy, it feels like the right time.

“It’s been 14 years since I first wore the baggy blue in Test cricket. 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,” Kohli wrote.

He added, “As I step away from this format, it’s not easy — but it feels right. I’ve given it everything I had, and it’s given me back so much more than I could’ve hoped for. I’ll always look back at my Test career with a smile.”

Virat Kohli ends his Test career with impressive numbers. He played 123 matches, scored 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85, and hit 30 centuries along with 31 fifties. He also led India in 68 Tests, out of which the team won 40 matches — making him one of India’s most successful Test captains.

However, it must be noted that in the last few years, Kohli was going through a tough phase in Test cricket, with runs drying up compared to his peak years. Yet, his contribution and impact on Indian Test cricket remain unmatched.

As Kohli signs off with the hashtag “#269, signing off,” Indian cricket fans and players are left with mixed emotions — sadness to see him leave Tests, but gratitude for the unforgettable memories he created in whites.