India, 12 May 2025 — The Virat Kohli test retirement stunned the cricketing world on Monday, just days before India’s squad announcement for the England tour.
Kohli, 36, made the emotional announcement via Instagram. “It’s not easy — but it feels right,” he wrote. “I’ve given it everything I had.” Kohli debuted in 2011 and played 123 Tests, scoring 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85, including 30 centuries.
His last Test came in January during India’s 3-1 series defeat to Australia, ending their decade-long hold on the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
While stepping away from Test cricket, Kohli remains available for one-day internationals. He retired from T20 Internationals after India won the 2024 T20 World Cup in the West Indies.
Reflecting on his journey, Kohli wrote, “It’s been 14 years since I first wore the baggy blue… the quiet grind, the long days — they stay with you.”
The Virat Kohli test retirement also marks the end of an era in Indian cricket. Between 2014 and 2022, he led India in 68 Tests, winning 40 — the most by any Indian captain.
Globally, only Graeme Smith (53), Ricky Ponting (48), and Steve Waugh (41) have more Test wins as captain.
Under his leadership, India reached two World Test Championship finals — losing to New Zealand in 2021 and to Australia in 2023.
Kohli acknowledged everyone who supported him. “I’m walking away with a heart full of gratitude… I’ll always look back at my Test career with a smile.”
India’s next Test series is a five-match tour of England starting June 20.
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