Virat Kohli Retires from Test Cricket: A Glorious Era Comes to an End

On May 12, 2025, Indian cricket legend Virat Kohli announced his retirement from Test cricket, bringing an end to a remarkable 14-year career in the longest format of the game. His decision closely follows the retirement of fellow Indian stalwart Rohit Sharma, marking the conclusion of a significant era in Indian cricket.newsThe Times+5news+5Reuters+5

Debuting in 2011, Kohli played 123 Test matches, amassing 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85, including 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries. His leadership tenure from 2014 to 2022 was particularly noteworthy, with Kohli captaining India in 68 Tests and securing 40 victories—the most by any Indian Test captain. Under his guidance, India reached the finals of the World Test Championship in both 2021 and 2023.The Guardian+4news+4Reuters+4Reuters+1The Guardian+1

Kohli's prowess was especially evident against Australia, against whom he scored 2,232 runs, including nine centuries. His contributions were pivotal in India's historic Test series victories in Australia during the 2018-19 and 2020-21 tours.news+1Reuters+1The Guardian

In a heartfelt Instagram post, Kohli expressed his gratitude for the journey, stating, "I've given everything I had to Test cricket. It's been an incredible journey of growth and learning." He emphasized the personal significance of the format and the profound impact it had on his career and life.news+3The Guardian+3news+3

Though stepping away from Test cricket, Kohli remains active in One Day Internationals (ODIs) and continues to play in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for Royal Challengers Bengaluru. He had previously retired from T20 Internationals following India's World Cup triumph in 2024.Reuters+1news+1

Tributes poured in from across the cricketing world. ICC Chairman Jay Shah praised Kohli's commitment to Test cricket, especially during the rise of the T20 format. Former teammates like Harbhajan Singh and Irfan Pathan lauded his influence on fitness standards and aggressive leadership. Commentator Harsha Bhogle highlighted Kohli's role in making Test cricket aspirational for the younger generation.Reuters+3Reuters+3The Guardian+3

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As India prepares for a challenging five-match Test series in England starting June 20, Kohli's absence will be deeply felt. His retirement signifies not just the end of an illustrious personal journey but also a transformative chapter in Indian cricket history.news+3The Guardian+3ESPN Cricinfo+3The Guardian+2news+2ESPN Cricinfo+2