Virat Kohli, one of India’s most celebrated cricketers, has informed the BCCI of his intention to retire from Test cricket, according to reports. The former India captain is expected to be part of the squad for the upcoming five-Test series in England, starting June 20, which could mark the final chapter of his 14-year Test career.
Kohli’s Test Journey: A Glorious Era
Kohli has so far played 123 Test matches, scoring 9230 runs at an average of 46.85, including 28 centuries. His leadership era saw India achieve 40 Test wins out of 68 matches, making him India’s most successful Test captain.
He stands 4th on the all-time list of Test captains with the most wins, behind:
- Graeme Smith (53 wins)
- Ricky Ponting (48 wins)
- Steve Waugh (41 wins)
Recent Form and Decision Timeline
Kohli’s recent Test form hasn’t been as dominant. His last Test century came in November 2024 in Perth, which ended a 16-month drought since his previous hundred against West Indies in July 2023. Over the past two years, his average has dropped to 32.56, a steep decline from his peak average of 55.10.
Despite this, the team management and selectors reportedly still value Kohli’s experience for the challenging England tour, especially with India transitioning to a new Test captain, most likely Shubman Gill.
Kohli’s Highs in England
England has been a significant chapter in Kohli’s Test career. After a forgettable 2014 tour, Kohli redeemed himself in 2018, scoring 583 runs in five Tests at an average of 59.30, finishing as the highest run-getter in the series.
His golden period between 2016–2018 saw him average over 66 with the bat, scoring:
- 1322 runs in 2018
- A peak average of 75.93 in 2016
- 14 centuries in just 35 Tests during the 3-year stretch
Team in Transition
India is undergoing a significant shift in leadership and core player structure. With Rohit Sharma and R Ashwin already retired from Tests, and Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, and Mohammed Shami out of form or out of the setup, Kohli remains one of the last few experienced players, alongside Jadeja and Bumrah.
The England tour, if Kohli doesn’t reverse his decision, could be his farewell to red-ball cricket.
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