Kohli Marks End of an Era with Retirement from Test Cricket

Virat Kohli, one of cricket's all-time greats, has officially retired from Test cricket, marking a significant moment in the sport's history.

Virat Kohli, India's batting legend, has surprised fans by announcing his retirement from Test cricket just before the anticipated five-match Test series against England starting June 20. The 36-year-old has represented India in 123 Tests, accumulating an impressive 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85. His announcement comes on the heels of Rohit Sharma's recent retirement from the game.

In a heartfelt message shared via social media, Kohli reflected on his journey over the past 14 years since he donned the baggy blue for the first time. "I never imagined the journey this format would take me on," he wrote. Kohli, who stepped back from T20 internationals after India's World Cup victory in 2024, is expected to continue in one-day internationals.

Making his Test debut against West Indies in 2011, Kohli went on to captain the Indian team in 68 Tests, achieving a record of 40 wins, making him the most successful Test captain for India. "Playing in whites is deeply personal. It’s the quiet grind and the long days that create unforgettable moments," Kohli added.

He expressed deep gratitude for the game and the teammates he played alongside, stating, "I will always look back at my Test career with a smile." Renowned for his prowess, Kohli has scored 30 Test centuries and is only surpassed in runs among Indian players by legends like Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, and Sunil Gavaskar. He holds the record for the most Test centuries by an Indian captain with 20.

Interestingly, Kohli's last century came in November against Australia, where he scored 100 not out, but since then, his performance has faltered, leading to only three centuries in 39 Tests since January 2020.

Kohli's departure signifies a pivotal change in Indian cricket, following Rohit Sharma's exit, as the team prepares to usher in new talents. Kohli has been acknowledged as cricket's "greatest showman," and his absence will change the landscape of Test cricket immensely, leaving fans longing for his spectacular performances and his unique flair on the field.