Virat Kohli Announces Retirement from Test Cricket After Glorious 14-Year Journey :
Virat Kohli, one of the greatest cricketers of the modern era, officially announced his retirement from Test cricket on Monday, bringing an end to a storied red-ball career that spanned over 14 remarkable years.
The 36-year-old took to Instagram to share an emotional message with fans and the cricketing fraternity. His retirement follows reports last week suggesting that he had informed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) about his intention to step away from the longest format of the game.
End of an Era : Virat Kohli Announces Test Retirement
“It’s been 14 years since I first wore the baggy blue in Test cricket,” Kohli wrote in his heartfelt post. “Honestly, I never imagined the journey this format would take me on. It’s tested me, shaped me, and taught me lessons I’ll carry for life.”
Kohli’s Test debut came in 2011 against the West Indies, and he soon cemented his place in the side, eventually rising to become one of India’s most successful captains. Under his leadership, India reached new heights, including a historic series win in Australia and consistently holding the No. 1 Test team ranking for an extended period.
Known for his intensity, technical brilliance, and unmatched passion, Kohli scored over 8,500 runs in Test cricket, with 29 centuries and 7 double hundreds to his name. His contributions weren’t just limited to his batting prowess — Kohli redefined the fitness and mindset standards for Indian cricketers, ushering in a new era of professionalism.
In his post, Kohli thanked his teammates, coaches, and fans for their unwavering support. He also expressed gratitude to his family, especially wife Anushka Sharma, for being his “pillar of strength” through highs and lows.
“None of this would’ve been possible without the constant encouragement of my loved ones. Thank you to the BCCI, my teammates, coaches, support staff, and the fans — you all have a piece of this journey,” Kohli added.
With his departure from Test cricket, Kohli is expected to focus on limited-overs formats and continue his role in Indian Premier League (IPL) commitments with Royal Challengers Bangalore.
As the cricketing world reflects on Kohli’s legacy in Test cricket, one thing is clear — his contribution has left an indelible mark on Indian cricket and inspired a generation of players and fans alike.
Virat Kohli : 14 Years of Legendary Service
Indian cricket legend Virat Kohli has officially retired from Test cricket, marking the end of an illustrious chapter in his career. The former captain took to Instagram on Monday to confirm the news, sharing an emotional message that resonated deeply with fans and fellow cricketers alike.
Kohli, 36, began his Test career in 2011 and quickly rose to become one of the format’s modern greats. Known for his unmatched passion, aggression, and consistency, he finished his red-ball journey with 111 Test matches, 8,848 runs, 29 centuries, and an average of nearly 50.
Kohli’s leadership redefined India’s approach to Test cricket. Under his captaincy, India conquered tough overseas tours, including a historic series win in Australia in 2018-19. He led India in 68 Test matches, winning 40 of them — the most by any Indian Test captain.
His iconic “#269 signing off” message — referencing his Test cap number — struck an emotional chord with fans who have witnessed his journey from a talented youngster to one of the game’s greatest ambassadors.
As Kohli steps away from the red-ball game, tributes have poured in from cricketing legends, teammates, and fans across the globe. Many remembered his defining knocks, his fierce on-field presence, and his unwavering commitment to Test cricket at a time when shorter formats dominate the game.
Though he will no longer don the whites, Kohli is expected to continue playing in ODIs, T20Is, and the IPL, where his passion for the sport remains as strong as ever.
Kohli’s retirement signals the end of a golden era in Indian Test cricket, but his legacy will inspire generations to come.
