Indian cricketing legend Virat Kohli has announced his retirement from Test cricket, concluding a remarkable 14-year career that redefined the sport in India and beyond. The 36-year-old made the announcement on May 12, 2025, via social media, stating, “I’ve given it everything I had”.
Kohli debuted in 2011 and went on to play 123 Tests, amassing 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85, including 30 centuries. His leadership was transformative; as captain, he led India to 40 wins in 68 Tests and elevated the team to the No. 1 spot in the ICC rankings. Notably, he became the first Indian captain to win a Test series in Australia, a feat achieved during the 2018-19 tour.
Kohli’s aggressive yet disciplined approach set new standards for fitness and professionalism in Indian cricket. His performances were particularly stellar against Australia, scoring 2,232 runs in 30 matches, including seven centuries on Australian soil.
The retirement follows closely after Rohit Sharma’s departure from Test cricket, signaling a generational shift in the Indian team. Kohli had previously retired from T20 internationals in 2024 after India’s World Cup victory but is expected to continue playing One Day Internationals.
Reactions from the cricketing world have been overwhelmingly positive. ICC Chairman Jay Shah praised Kohli for championing Test cricket amid the rise of T20 formats, while former coach Ravi Shastri hailed him as a modern-day giant and ambassador for the longest format of the game.
As Kohli steps away from Test cricket, he leaves behind a legacy of excellence, resilience, and inspiration, having shaped not just a team but an era in Indian cricket.
