Virat Kohli Announces Retirement from Test Cricket After Glorious 14-Year Journey

In news that no Indian cricket fan wanted to hear, Virat Kohli has officially said goodbye to Test cricket. Yes, you read it right — the man who ruled red-ball cricket for more than a decade has retired from the format. After days of guessing and rumours, Virat himself confirmed the news through a heart-touching post on Instagram.

Many were wondering why he’s not playing in the upcoming England series — now we know the reason. Some sources even said that BCCI tried to convince him to delay his decision. But now, Virat has made up his mind.

In his emotional message, he wrote:

“These 14 years in Test cricket have been the most memorable phase of my career… I gave it everything I had, and I’ve received so much in return.”

Reason Behind Virat’s Retirement

Virat bhai hasn’t looked like his old self in Tests for a while. In the last Border-Gavaskar Trophy, he averaged just 23.75, scoring only 190 runs in 9 innings.

Between 2020 and 2024, his Test numbers dropped — just 3 centuries in 37 matches, and his average was stuck below 35. For someone who once averaged 55+, this dip was tough to watch.

He’s always been a player who gives his 200% for the team. Maybe that’s why he felt it was better to step away and give youngsters a chance now.

Know the Reason Behind Rohit Sharma’s Retirement 

Virat Kohli’s Test Journey 

Virat started his Test journey back in 2011 against the West Indies. He didn’t exactly have a dream debut — barely scored anything — but over time, he turned into the pillar of Indian Test batting. From struggling initially to becoming the man India looked up to in pressure situations, Virat’s transformation was nothing short of inspirational. 

In 123 Test matches, he scored 9,230 runs with an average of 46.85. Along the way, he smashed 30 centuries and even 7 double hundreds. He especially loved facing big teams like Australia and England, scoring over 1,000 runs against both. Some of his best innings came on Australian soil, where he didn’t just earn runs, but earned fans too — becoming one of the most loved overseas players there. Here are the stats of Virat Kohli in test cricket:

Virat As Test Captain – India’s Best Test Leader Ever

Virat wasn’t just about runs — he was a true leader. When he took over the Test captaincy full-time in 2015, Indian cricket saw a shift. He brought in a fresh mindset, pushed the team to stay super fit, and gave confidence to his fast bowlers to attack in any conditions. 

Under his captaincy, India played 68 Tests, out of which they won 40 and lost only 17 — giving him a win percentage of 58.82%, the best ever for any Indian Test captain. What’s even more impressive is that he never lost a single Test series at home. Out of 31 home games as captain, India won 24 and lost just 2 — total domination. 

Virat’s aggressive and fearless style inspired the team to perform better, especially the pace attack, which became one of the best in the world under his watch. His stats in test cricket as captain:

What’s Next for Virat Kohli After Test Cricket?

This is truly the end of an era. Test cricket won’t be the same without Virat. From aggressive batting to sharp captaincy, he gave us unforgettable moments for 14 long years. He also retired from T20Is, after helping India lift the T20 World Cup in 2024. Now with Tests also done, he will only focus on ODIs.

Just like Rohit Sharma, Virat bhai will now be seen only in the 50-over format. With the 2027 ODI World Cup coming, maybe he wants to give it one last shot there. Currently, Virat is focused on IPL 2025, already smashing 500+ runs and leading his team, RCB like a boss in the hunt for their maiden title win.

While the whites may not see him again, we’ll always remember the fire, the passion, and that trademark cover drive. Thank you, King Kohli, for everything.