Virat Kohli has officially retired from Test cricket, turning down a request from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to reconsider his decision. Following in the footsteps of Rohit Sharma, the former captain has ended his journey in the longest format of the game, marking the close of a significant era in Indian Test cricket.
Kohli announced his retirement through a post on Instagram, writing:
“Fourteen years ago, I wore the blue Test cap for the first time. Honestly, I didn’t know how far this format would take me. I couldn’t have imagined it. Test cricket has tested me, shaped me, and taught me. I’ll carry those lessons for life.”
He added, “There’s something deeply personal about playing in whites — the calm atmosphere, long hours of play, the little moments that often go unnoticed. These will stay with me forever.”
Kohli explained that stepping away from Test cricket was not an easy decision, but it felt like the right one. “I gave everything I had, and the format gave me back more than I expected. With a heart full of gratitude, I step away — from the game, from those I shared the field with, and from every person who made me feel acknowledged.”
Though he informed the BCCI of his intention to retire days ago, the board urged him to stay on for the upcoming England tour, especially with Rohit Sharma also stepping away from Test cricket. The BCCI was concerned that the absence of both veterans could leave the Indian batting lineup inexperienced. However, Kohli remained firm in his decision and, like Rohit, will not play a farewell Test.
Kohli made his Test debut against the West Indies in 2011 and scored his first century the same year in Adelaide against Australia. Over his career, he played 123 Tests, scoring 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85, including 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries.
As a Test captain, Kohli led India in 68 matches and won 40 — making him India’s most successful captain in terms of Test victories. Widely regarded as one of India’s all-time greats, Kohli’s retirement marks the end of a golden chapter in Indian cricket.