Indian batting icon Virat Kohli has officially announced his retirement from Test cricket, bringing an end to a distinguished 14-year-long red-ball career at the age of 36. Since making his debut in 2011, Kohli has been instrumental in modernizing Indian cricket and raising its stature on the global stage in the longest format.
His decision comes just days after Indian Test captain Rohit Sharma also stepped away from Test cricket. Both had earlier retired from T20 internationals after guiding India to the T20 World Cup title in 2024. Going forward, Kohli and Rohit will only be seen in One Day Internationals (ODIs).
Kohli shared an emotional message on his official Instagram account, saying the decision was not easy but felt like the right time. He wrote:
“It’s been 14 years since I made my Test debut. Never thought I’d come this far when I first wore the white jersey. This format has tested me, shaped me, and taught me lessons that I will carry for life. Inside the whites are countless personal struggles and many unseen moments that stay etched in the heart forever.
Saying goodbye is tough, but I feel this is the right time. I’ve given everything I had, and this game has given me back so much more.
I am grateful—to the game, my teammates, and everyone who has been part of this journey. I will always look back at my Test career with a smile.”
UA / TDS
