In a move that has sent shockwaves through the cricketing world, Virat Kohli, one of India’s modern-day batting legends, has announced his retirement from Test cricket. The 36-year-old took to social media on Monday to share an emotional message, calling time on his illustrious 14-year journey in the longest format of the game, which spanned from his debut in 2011 until his last appearance earlier this year.

Kohli’s announcement, posted on his Instagram account, resonated with gratitude and reflection. “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,” he wrote. He acknowledged the challenges and growth the format offered, stating, “It’s tested me, shaped me, and taught me lessons I’ll carry for life.”  

The former Indian captain also expressed a deep connection with the traditional format, highlighting its unique essence. “There’s something deeply personal about playing in whites. The quiet grind, the long days, the small moments that no one sees but that stay with you forever.”  

While admitting the decision wasn’t easy, Kohli conveyed a sense of peace with his choice. “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.” He concluded his heartfelt message with gratitude towards the game, his teammates, and the fans, signing off with “#269”, his Test cap number. “I’ll always look back at my Test career with a smile.”  

Virat Kohli’s Test career is etched in golden numbers. He played 123 Test matches, amassing a remarkable 9,230 runs at an impressive average of 46.85. His tenure in whites saw him score 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries, with a personal best of an unbeaten 254 against South Africa in 2019. This tally places him as India’s fourth-highest Test run-scorer, only behind the legendary Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, and Sunil Gavaskar.

Kohli’s Test journey began in Jamaica against the West Indies in 2011, just months after being part of India’s victorious ODI World Cup squad. His final Test match was against Australia in Sydney earlier this year. Notably, he also holds the record for the most Test matches as India’s captain, leading the team in 68 Tests and securing 40 victories.

Kohli’s retirement closely follows that of Rohit Sharma, who also recently stepped away from Test cricket. These decisions mark a significant transition in the Indian Test team, leaving a void of experience ahead of their upcoming five-match Test series against England, scheduled to begin in June.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) acknowledged Kohli’s immense contribution to Indian cricket, with many fans and experts reflecting on his impactful career in the longest format. While he will no longer be seen in the white flannels, Kohli’s legacy as a fierce competitor and a dominant batsman in Test cricket will undoubtedly endure. His focus is now expected to be on the ODI format, with the 2027 World Cup on the horizon.

Key Highlights:

• Virat Kohli announced his retirement from Test cricket on May 12, 2025, after a 14-year career.
• He played 123 Test matches, scoring 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85, including 30 centuries.
• Kohli is India’s fourth-highest Test run-scorer and the most successful Indian Test captain.
• His retirement follows Rohit Sharma’s decision to step away from the format, signaling a shift in the Indian Test team.