Indian cricket icon Virat Kohli has announced his retirement from Test cricket, ending a 14-year career that redefined excellence in the longest format.
With 9,230 runs and 30 centuries, Kohli leaves behind a legacy of aggression, leadership, and unmatched passion.
Follow BRG365 for exclusive insights into his journey and future aspirations.
Virat Kohli Retirement: The End of an Era
Virat Kohli, 36, shocked the cricketing world on Monday by announcing his immediate retirement from Test cricket, days before India’s pivotal tour of England.
The decision follows his 2024 retirement from T20Is and comes just weeks after Rohit Sharma’s exit from Tests, marking a seismic shift in India’s cricketing landscape.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Kohli reflected on his Test journey:
“It’s been 14 years since I first wore the baggy blue… The quiet grind, the long days, the small moments that no one sees but that stay with you forever. As I step away, it’s not easy—but it feels right.”
A Career Defined by Dominance
Kohli’s Test career is a testament to his relentless pursuit of perfection. Here’s a snapshot of his achievements:
|
Category |
Stats |
|---|---|
|
Matches |
123 Tests |
|
Runs |
9,230 at 46.85 avg |
|
Centuries |
30 (including 7 double) |
|
Highest Score |
254* vs South Africa |
|
Captaincy Wins |
40 in 68 matches (India’s most successful Test captain) |
His prime years (2016–2019) saw him average 66.79, including seven double centuries—a record for any Test captain.
Memorable series like the 2014–15 Australia tour (692 runs, 4 centuries) and 2018 England campaign (583 runs, 2 centuries) cemented his status as a modern great.
Read More: Virat Kohli: The Dominant Force in IPL 2025 Orange Cap Race
Reactions Pour in for the Legend
The cricketing fraternity lauded Kohli’s impact:
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Sachin Tendulkar: “Your true legacy lies in inspiring countless young cricketers.”
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BCCI President Roger Binny: “Kohli redefined excellence… his leadership shifted India’s overseas dominance.”
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David Warner: “You filled the shoes of greats and carried the nation’s hopes—you didn’t disappoint.”
What’s Next for Virat Kohli?
While Kohli’s Test career is over, his cricketing journey isn’t.
He’s expected to continue playing ODIs, where he remains India’s talismanic batter. Beyond the field, speculation abounds:
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Business Ventures: With investments in coffee chains, fitness brands, and hospitality, Kohli’s empire is set to expand.
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Coaching or Mentorship: His passion for nurturing talent could see him launch a cricket academy or join an IPL franchise’s coaching staff.
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Brand Endorsements: As one of India’s most marketable athletes, he’ll likely deepen partnerships with global brands like Puma and Audi.
A Lasting Impact on Test Cricket
Kohli’s retirement leaves a void in Test cricket’s narrative. His aggressive captaincy and vocal advocacy for the format during T20’s rise ensured its relevance.
Though recent form dipped (average 30.72 since 2020), his legacy as a “torchbearer of modern Indian Test cricket” remains unchallenged.
