WEBDESK: Virat Kohli, one of India’s greatest cricket legends, has officially announced his retirement from Test cricket at the age of 36. His decision comes as a surprise to fans around the world and marks the end of a remarkable era in Indian cricket. The 36-year-old’s decision comes just one month before India’s scheduled tour of England, leaving fans and analysts stunned.
Virat Kohli made his Test debut in 2011 and played 123 matches over 14 years. During this time, he scored 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85, including 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries. Known for his passion, aggression, and unmatched consistency, Virat Kohli became a symbol of modern Indian cricket.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Virat Kohli said, “I’ve given everything I had to Test cricket, and it’s given me back so much more than I could’ve hoped for.” He also thanked his fans, teammates, and coaches for their support throughout his career.
Kohli’s leadership record is equally impressive. As Test captain from 2014 to 2022, he led India in 68 matches, winning 40 of them – making him the most successful Test captain in India’s history.
His performances against Australia were particularly legendary. He scored 2,232 runs against them, including nine centuries, and led India to two historic Test series wins on Australian soil.
Virat Kohli’s retirement comes shortly after Rohit Sharma also stepped away from Test cricket, signaling a generational shift in the team. Although Kohli has also retired from T20 Internationals, he is expected to continue playing One-Day Internationals (ODIs) for now.
Globally, Kohli ranks fourth on the list of Test captains with the most wins. He follows South Africa’s Graeme Smith (53 wins in 109 matches), Australia’s Ricky Ponting (48 wins in 77 matches), and Steve Waugh of Australia (41 wins in 57 matches).
India suffered only 17 defeats with Kohli at the helm as he guided the side to the final of the inaugural World Test Championship in 2021, where they lost to New Zealand.
He was also part of the team that lost the second World Test Championship final to Australia in 2023.
“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,” he added.
“I’ll always look back at my Test career with a smile.”
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