Virat Kohli, one of India’s greatest-ever cricketers, has announced his retirement from Test cricket, ending a memorable red-ball career that spanned 14 years, 123 matches, and 9230 runs. Kohli made the announcement via a heartfelt note on his social media handles, reflecting on his journey in whites.
“As I step away from this format, it’s not easy – but it feels right… I’m walking away with a heart full of gratitude,” Kohli wrote.
Kohli’s Test Journey: From Struggles to Glory
Kohli made his Test debut in 2011 during India’s tour of the West Indies. While his early outings were modest, he gradually cemented his place with key innings against the West Indies and Australia. His breakthrough came during the 2014-15 tour of Australia, where he smashed four centuries in the series and established himself as India’s red-ball leader.
In 2015, he took over the full-time Test captaincy from MS Dhoni and ushered in a golden era for Indian Test cricket.
Captain Kohli: India’s Best Ever
- Captaincy Record: 68 matches, 40 wins, 17 losses
- Most successful Indian Test captain
- 4th most successful Test captain globally, behind Graeme Smith, Ricky Ponting, and Steve Waugh
Under his leadership, India dominated at home and became a formidable force overseas. Highlights include:
- A historic series win in Australia in 2018-19
- Leading India to the World Test Championship Final in 2021
- No. 1 Test ranking for several years
Kohli’s Peak and Decline in Tests
Between 2016 and 2019, Kohli was at his absolute best, averaging over 66 in Tests, scoring 14 centuries in just three years. His highest Test score, 254 vs South Africa* in Pune (2019), came during this purple patch.
However, in recent years, form and consistency dipped. His century in Perth in 2024 was his first in over a year. Despite that, he retires with a respectable average of 46.85 and a lasting legacy.
End of an Era for Indian Test Cricket
Kohli’s retirement follows that of Rohit Sharma and R Ashwin, signaling the end of a golden era. With Cheteshwar Pujara and Ajinkya Rahane not in the squad, the baton now passes to a younger generation, likely led by Shubman Gill.
Final Words from the Legend
“There’s something deeply personal about playing in whites… It’s tested me, shaped me, and taught me lessons I’ll carry for life.”
Virat Kohli’s name will forever be etched in Indian cricket history as a modern-day great, a fearless leader, and one of the finest batsmen of his generation.
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