Virat Kohli Retires from Test Cricket After 14 Years of Glorious Journey

Indian cricket fans were left emotional and shocked as Virat Kohli retires from Test cricket after a long and successful 14-year career. The former Indian captain made the official announcement just weeks before the big five-match Test series in England. Known for his passion, aggression, and consistency, Kohli’s retirement from the longest format has marked the end of an era.

Virat Kohli Announces Test Retirement After 14 Years of Service

On May 12, 2025, Virat Kohli announces test retirement after 14 years in a heartfelt social media post and confirmed that he had already informed the BCCI about his decision. The announcement came as a surprise to many, especially as fans were eagerly waiting to see him play against England in the upcoming red-ball series starting June 20.

In his statement, Kohli thanked his teammates, coaches, support staff, and millions of fans who stood by him through ups and downs. The cricketer said he felt the time was right to step away and allow the next generation to shine.

Virat Kohli Retires from Test: Career in Numbers

Virat Kohli retires from Test cricket with an incredible record that speaks for itself. He played 123 Tests, amassing 9,230 runs at an average of 48.7, which includes 30 centuries and 31 fifties. These numbers place him among the greatest Test batsmen in Indian cricket history.

Kohli made his Test debut in 2011 against the West Indies and soon became a mainstay in the middle order. His ability to score under pressure, especially in overseas conditions, made him a valuable asset for Team India.

Kohli Had Communicated His Desire to Retire From Test Cricket to the BCCI

Sources close to the BCCI revealed that Kohli had communicated his desire to retire from Test cricket to the BCCI even before the England series squad was selected. He wanted to make his decision private until everything was finalized. The board respected his choice and allowed him to announce it in his own time and way.

Kohli was expected to lead or play a major role in the England Test series, but with this announcement, the team will now move forward without one of its modern-day legends.

Virat Kohli’s Best Moments in Test Cricket

Throughout his career, Kohli gave Indian fans many unforgettable moments. His double century against the West Indies in 2016, the famous 149 at Edgbaston in 2018, and his consistent performances in Australia remain some of his most iconic innings. He was also the first Indian captain to win a Test series in Australia in 2018–19.

His aggressive approach and hunger to win overseas changed the face of Indian Test cricket. Kohli brought fitness and discipline into the red-ball format and inspired young cricketers to aim high.

Leadership and Captaincy Record

Kohli also has a strong legacy as a Test captain. He led India in 68 Tests and won 40 of them, making him India’s most successful Test captain to date. Under his leadership, India reached the No.1 ranking in Test cricket and played the final of the World Test Championship in 2021.

Though he stepped down from captaincy in 2022, his leadership style continued to influence Indian cricket. Virat Kohli retires from Test cricket not just as a batter but also as a leader who changed the mindset of the team.

Impact on Team India

The retirement of Kohli from Tests will leave a big gap in the team. Young players like Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Ruturaj Gaikwad will now have to step up and fill his shoes. His experience, especially in away conditions, will be missed in the dressing room.

Fans are emotional but also respectful of Kohli’s decision. Social media is filled with posts and messages from players, celebrities, and cricket lovers thanking him for his contribution to Test cricket.

While there is no single reason for the timing, many believe that Kohli wanted to make space for younger players and focus more on white-ball cricket and his family life. Also, Kohli had communicated his desire to retire from Test cricket to the BCCI much before the schedule was made public, which means this decision was well-planned.

He has already stepped away from T20Is and ODI captaincy, and now this marks a full shift in his career priorities.

Though Virat Kohli retires from Test, he is still active in ODIs and T20Is and continues to play for Royal Challengers Bangalore in the IPL. He has hinted that he wants to give his best in the upcoming ICC tournaments. Fans can still see him play on the big stage, but not in whites anymore.

There are also reports that Kohli may start mentoring young cricketers or even take a coaching role in the future. Many believe he will still be closely connected to Indian cricket in one way or another.

A Glorious Test Career Comes to an End

In simple words, Virat Kohli retires from Test cricket as one of India’s all-time greats. His commitment, passion, and energy on the field inspired millions. His numbers – 123 Tests, amassing 9,230 runs at an average of 48.7, including 30 centuries and 31 fifties – will remain unmatched for years.

Virat Kohli announces test retirement after 14 years, and cricket fans around the world will miss seeing him in the red-ball format. But his legacy, his fighting spirit, and his love for Test cricket will continue to inspire generations to come.