After Indian skipper Rohit Sharma’s recent exit from Test cricket, the cricketing world was hit with another emotional moment as Virat Kohli announced his retirement from Test cricket. On May 12, 2025, the cricket icon took to Instagram to share a heartfelt note about stepping away from the red-ball format, marking the end of a golden era in Indian cricket.
A Glorious Chapter Comes to an End
Virat Kohli, also known as ‘King Kohli’, officially retired from Test cricket as India’s 269th Test player. In a deeply emotional post, the 36-year-old cricketer shared a powerful message of gratitude and reflection. Posting a picture of himself in his iconic white Indian jersey, Kohli penned down memories, emotions, and the lessons that Test cricket offered him over the last 14 years.
“There’s something deeply personal about playing in whites… I’m walking away with a heart full of gratitude.”
— Virat Kohli
From a Young Debutant to a Cricketing Giant
Kohli made his Test debut in 2011 and grew into one of the most formidable forces in the format. Over time, his technique, temperament, and tenacity made him a name to be feared among bowlers around the world. With 123 Test matches under his belt, Kohli has represented the core strength of India’s batting lineup in the last decade and beyond.
The Test Captain Who Changed India’s Approach
After MS Dhoni’s retirement from Tests in 2014, Virat Kohli took over the reins of the team. Under his leadership, India became a dominant force in Test cricket, both at home and abroad. His aggressive captaincy style and fitness standards transformed the team’s culture.
- Matches as captain: 68
- Wins: 40
- Most successful Indian Test captain ever
Kohli’s belief in fast bowlers, focus on overseas wins, and commitment to fitness became the hallmark of his tenure.
Kohli’s Batting Brilliance in Red-Ball Cricket
Even before he was captain, Kohli was already a proven match-winner. Between 2010 and 2019, he was the third-highest run-scorer in Test cricket with:
- Runs: 7202
- Batting Average: 54.97
- Centuries: 27
His fierce competitiveness, hunger for runs, and immaculate technique gave fans many moments of joy. Although his form dipped post-COVID-19, his contribution remained unmatched.
Kohli in the Elite League of Indian Test Batters
With a total of 9230 runs from 210 innings, Virat Kohli ends his Test career as the fourth-highest run scorer in Indian Test history. He stands only behind:
- Sachin Tendulkar: 15,921
- Rahul Dravid: 13,265
- Sunil Gavaskar: 10,122
Kohli’s place among these legends is well-deserved, and his legacy as a complete batter is firmly cemented.
An Emotional Goodbye, But a Fulfilling One
Kohli admitted that it was not an easy decision to make but mentioned that it felt like the right time to walk away. He described Test cricket as a grind — full of moments unseen by fans but cherished by players. His Instagram post resonated deeply with cricket lovers, as he poured his heart out, thanking the game and the people who supported him.
“It’s not easy — but it feels right. I’ve given it everything I had, and it’s given me back so much more than I could’ve hoped for.”
— Virat Kohli
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli: End of an Era
Virat’s retirement comes shortly after Rohit Sharma also announced his exit from the longest format. With both stalwarts stepping down, Indian cricket is now entering a new phase. Fans will forever remember this duo for their iconic performances, leadership, and dedication to the Indian jersey.
What Lies Ahead for Virat Kohli?
Though he has stepped away from Test cricket, Virat Kohli is expected to continue contributing in the white-ball formats and franchise cricket. His fans, teammates, and cricket boards alike will look forward to seeing more of his brilliance in ODIs and T20s. But his legacy in Test cricket — full of passion, aggression, discipline, and excellence — will remain untouched.
Final Thoughts
Virat Kohli’s retirement from Test cricket marks the end of one of the most influential careers in the sport’s history. From lifting the Indian team through tough overseas tours to setting new fitness and performance benchmarks, Kohli has left a lasting legacy. As he signs off as Test cap number #269, the world stands in salute to a true champion of the game.