Virat Kohli Retires from Test Cricket: A Glorious Era Ends
When I was reading the news, I choked on myself when I saw the statement. Not just me, the Indian cricket fans felt a great shock on May 12, 2025. Why? Because Virat Kohli, the face of India’s Test dominance, formally announced his retirement from red-ball cricket. The information spread like wildfire, catching fans, professionals, and even teammates by surprise.
While the whispers had begun, few believed this day might come so quickly. And yet, Kohli, the fierce warrior in whites, has now stepped down from the format that wrote his legacy.
The King of Modern Test Cricket
Virat Kohli’s Test journey started on June 20, 2011, against the West Indies. From that day, he never looked back. In 123 Tests, Kohli piled up 9,230 runs. And do you know what his average was? An average of 48.67, including 30 centuries and 29 fifties. His maximum rating? A towering 254 not out against South Africa in Pune in the year 2019.
While the numbers are outstanding, it wasn’t just stats. Kohli added emotion, aggression, and pride to a format many feared would start fading. He made white-ball enthusiasts fall in love with red-ball drama.
A Captain Who Changed It All
Kohli’s leadership in Test cricket merits its very own spotlight. After MS Dhoni retired from Tests in 2014, Kohli took his place. From 2014 to 2022, he led India in 68 Tests, winning 40, the most ever by an Indian captain.
More importantly, Kohli’s crew won the Test series in Australia. It was during the year 2018-2019. A feat no other Indian team had finished before. He also took India to the World Test Championship in 2021. Under his watch, fast bowlers became India’s number one weapon. Seamers like Bumrah, Shami, and Siraj hunted in packs. The fitness standards improved. The intensity soared. And the results followed.
Why Now? The Decision Explained
According to reviews, Kohli told the BCCI ahead of the first test. While he kept it non-public in the beginning, he ultimately posted a heartfelt word online.
“As I step away from this format, it’s not easy—but it feels right. I am walking away with a heart full of gratitude,” said Kohli.
Though no farewell match was planned, the timing made sense. Kohli, 36, felt the grind of Tests, in particular with more youthful gamers knocking on the door. It also comes quickly after Rohit Sharma’s Test retirement, marking the end of a generation for Indian cricket.
The Emotional Void Ahead
With Kohli gone, India’s Test dressing room will not be the same. His ardor, fierce celebrations, and unique actions will never return. His favorite hunting ground is Australia, where he showed his masterpiece work by scoring 692 runs in just four tests.
Kohli wasn’t perfect all the time, but he was always present. Always intense. And always there when India needed a fight.
Who Steps Up Now?
The biggest question now: Who replaces Virat Kohli in India’s Test playing order?
Several contenders are ready. Shubman Gill, already being groomed for leadership, would move up. Sarfaraz Khan and Rajat Patidar are also the choices.
But let’s be clear, you don’t replace a Kohli. You adapt. You develop around the hole he leaves behind.
A Global Reaction
The cricketing world was quick to react. AB de Villiers, one of Kohli’s best pals in cricket, tweeted:
“ Congrats to my biscotti… True legend,” while the BCCI tweeted a thank-you note. Few said, “the best all-around player in current cricket,” at the same time as legends like Brian Lara said he should not retire. Kohli made fans in England, Australia, and South Africa just as much as he did in India. He was the global cricket heartbeat.
Test Cricket Will Miss Him
Yes, Kohli will still play white-ball cricket. But Test cricket was his first love, and arguably, his proper calling. He as soon as stated, “Test cricket is the toughest and most rewarding format. If you succeed here, you succeed anywhere.”
That’s exactly what he did.
With Kohli leaving, an entire era will consider him the person who made Test matches feel like the World Cup finals. Every session mattered. Every wicket cheered. Every century is celebrated like gold.
Final Thoughts: Thank You, Virat
As the sun sets on Virat Kohli’s Test career, Indian fans are left with memories. Of cover drives on bouncy tracks. Of battles with Anderson and Starc. Of wins that once felt not possible. His career no longer runs pretty much. It was about belief. It became about wearing the weight of 1.4 billion people and nevertheless taking walks like a king.
So, thanks, Virat. Thank you for making us trust. Thank you for the fireplace, the fight, and the legacy.
Test cricket may continue on; however, it’s not going to be the same without you in Whites.
FAQs
- Why did Virat Kohli retire from Test cricket?
It was a sudden decision that shook the nation. Though the reasons are not clearly known, for now we stand by his choice.
- How many Test matches did Virat Kohli play?
Kohli played 123 Test matches.
- Will Virat Kohli continue playing in other formats?
Yes, Kohli is expected to continue in ODIS and T20IS.
- What was Kohli’s biggest achievement in Test cricket?
Leading India to a historic Test series win in Australia in 2018–19 remains Kohli’s greatest achievement as a Test captain.
