Virat Kohli Retires from Test Cricket: A Legendary Farewell

Virat Kohli, one of cricket’s most iconic modern-era players, has announced his retirement from Test cricket, marking the end of a glorious chapter in Indian cricket. On May 12, 2025, the former Indian captain shared an emotional farewell message on Instagram, ahead of India’s five-Test series against England, scheduled to begin on June 20, 2025.

💬 The Emotional Announcement

In his heartfelt post, Kohli reflected on his journey in Test cricket:

“It’s been 14 years since I first wore the baggy blue in Test cricket. 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. I’m walking away with a heart full of gratitude… I’ll always look back at my Test career with a smile. #269, signing off. 🇮🇳❤️”

📉 Recent Form and the Decision to Retire

Kohli’s decision comes after a challenging Border-Gavaskar Trophy (Nov 2024 – Jan 2025) in Australia, where he reportedly scored 190 runs in five Tests, including a century in Perth. Despite efforts by the BCCI to retain him, especially following Rohit Sharma’s Test retirement, Kohli chose to step away, citing personal fulfillment and closure in the longest format.

🏏 A Stellar Test Career

Virat Kohli’s Test legacy is etched in history:

Matches Played: 123
Runs Scored: 9,230
Batting Average: 46.85
Centuries: 30
Half-Centuries: 31
Highest Score: 254*
Test Cap Number: 269
Captaincy Record: Led India in 68 Tests, winning 40 — the most by any Indian Test captain
Historic Feats: Back-to-back Test series wins in Australia, unbeaten home run as captain (2015–2021)

His peak years between 2016 and 2018 saw him scoring 3,596 runs at an average of 66.59, establishing himself as the world’s premier red-ball batter during that period.

🎯 What’s Next for Kohli?

Although he has retired from Test cricket and T20 Internationals (after India’s win in the 2024 T20 World Cup), Kohli remains active in:

ODIs: Where he continues to serve as a senior figure guiding the next generation
IPL: Leading the run charts for Royal Challengers Bengaluru in IPL 2025, with

505 runs in 11 matches, average of 63.13, strike rate of 143.47 (as of May 12, 2025)

Kohli has denied rumors of retirement from ODIs, expressing a clear desire to be part of India’s campaign for the 2027 ODI World Cup.

🏁 Legacy of a Modern Legend

Virat Kohli’s departure from Test cricket signifies more than just the end of a career — it marks the close of an era. His passion, intensity, and hunger for excellence redefined India’s approach to red-ball cricket.

With over 25,000 international runs, Kohli leaves behind a legacy that will inspire generations of cricketers. As he steps into the next phase of his career, fans will continue to cheer him on in blue and red — for India and for RCB.

📌 “There’s a lot of cricket left in me,” Kohli said earlier this year — and fans around the world will be hoping that’s true.

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