Last Updated on May 12, 2025 by Mrunal & Jiten
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Virat Kohli declared his retirement from Test cricket, bringing an end to a remarkable 14-year journey in the longest format of the game. Kohli reminisced about his debut in the “baggy blue,” admitting he never foresaw the profound impact Test cricket would have on him.
“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,” Kohli wrote.
He spoke poignantly about the unique essence of Test cricket, highlighting “the quiet grind, the long days, the small moments that no one sees but that stay with you forever.”
Acknowledging the difficulty of his decision, Kohli stated, “As I step away from this format, it’s not easy — but it feels right. I’ve given it everything I had, and it’s given me back so much more than I could’ve hoped for.”
The former captain concluded his message with gratitude: “I’m walking away with a heart full of gratitude — for the game, for the people I shared the field with, and for every single person who made me feel seen along the way. I’ll always look back at my Test career with a smile.”
Kohli’s Test career spanned 123 matches, amassing 9230 runs at an average of 46.85. His illustrious record includes 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries, with a highest score of 254 not out. He also holds the record for the most Test matches as India’s captain, leading in 68 games and securing 40 victories.
Kohli’s retirement follows closely on the heels of Rohit Sharma’s announcement a few days prior that he would also be stepping away from Test cricket. This marks a significant transition in the landscape of Indian Test cricket, with two of its most experienced and influential players bidding farewell to the format.
