In a surprising announcement that has stunned fans and the cricketing world, Indian cricket legend Virat Kohli has declared his retirement from Test cricket. The former India captain, known for his aggressive style and unmatched fitness, made the revelation via a heartfelt message on social media.
Kohli, who made his Test debut in 2011 against the West Indies, played 111 matches, scoring over 8,600 runs at an average of 49.29. He notched 29 centuries and 29 fifties in the format, and led India to numerous historic victories, including a famous Test series win in Australia in 2018–19.
“After deep reflection and countless memories, I have decided to retire from Test cricket. It has been the most challenging and fulfilling journey of my life,” Kohli stated in his post.
His decision comes as India prepares for a new generation of talent to take over. Kohli expressed his intention to continue contributing in ODIs, with a strong focus on upcoming ICC tournaments.
Fans and fellow cricketers poured in emotional tributes, acknowledging Kohli’s impact on Indian cricket and his legacy as one of the finest Test players of the modern era.
| Matches | Innings | Not Outs | Runs | Average | 100s | 50s | Highest Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 111 | 187 | 11 | 8,848 | 49.15 | 29 | 29 | 254* |
Achievements in Test Cricket:
First Indian captain to win a Test series in Australia (2018–19)
Led India to the World Test Championship Final (2021)
Most centuries by an Indian in SENA (South Africa, England, New Zealand, Australia) countries (10)
ICC Test Player of the Year (2018)
Fastest Indian to 7,000, 8,000 Test runs
Most Memorable Test Moments:
2018 Adelaide Test vs Australia: Scored a gritty 123 in tough conditions; India went on to win their first-ever Test series Down Under.
2016 Double Century Marathon: Kohli scored four double hundreds in four consecutive series – a world record.
Debut Century as Captain (Adelaide, 2014): Scored 115 and 141 in his first Test as full-time captain.
2019 Pink Ball Test vs Bangladesh: Kohli’s century in India’s first-ever day-night Test at Eden Gardens.
Celebrated his 200-run knock vs South Africa (2019) by dedicating it to wife Anushka Sharma, creating an emotional moment for fans.
In his emotional farewell post, Kohli said:
“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… I’m walking away with a heart full of gratitude – for the game, for the people I shared the field with, and for every single person who made me feel seen along the way.”
“I’ll always look back at my Test career with a smile. #269, signing off.”
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