Virat Kohli Bids Farewell to Test Cricket After Glorious 14-Year Career

In a landmark moment for global cricket, Virat Kohli has announced his retirement from Test cricket, drawing the curtain on a legendary career spanning over 14 years. The announcement, made via a heartfelt social media post, comes just before India’s much-anticipated home series against England.

Kohli, 36, expressed deep gratitude in his statement:

“It’s never easy to walk away from something you love, but I believe this is the right time. Test cricket has shaped me as a player and a person, and I leave with immense pride and thankfulness.”

Career Highlights

• Test Matches: 123

• Total Runs: 9,230

• Average: 46.85

• Centuries: 30

• Highest Score: 254*

• Matches as Captain: 68 (40 wins)

Kohli led India to notable Test series wins, including the historic victory in Australia in 2018–19 and appearances in two World Test Championship finals (2021, 2023).

A Generational Shift

Kohli's retirement closely follows that of Rohit Sharma, marking the end of a golden era in Indian Test cricket. While the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) reportedly urged Kohli to reconsider, the batter remained firm in his decision.

Despite stepping away from the longest format, Kohli is expected to continue his ODI career, with an eye on the 2027 World Cup.