After a remarkable 14-year run, the Indian batting icon confirms his exit from red-ball cricket in an emotional social media post.
May 12, 2025
In a major development that marks the end of an era in Indian cricket, Virat Kohli has officially announced his retirement from Test cricket. The former India captain shared a heartfelt message on Instagram on Monday, bringing down the curtain on a celebrated 14-year career in the game’s longest and most traditional format.
Kohli’s announcement comes days after Rohit Sharma stepped away from Test cricket, and months after off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin also called it quits. Together, their exits represent a significant generational shift in the Indian Test setup.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had reportedly held discussions with Kohli in an attempt to persuade him to continue, but the veteran batter ultimately decided it was time to move on.
In his post, Kohli reflected on his journey, recalling his debut and the deep connection he formed with Test cricket over the years.
“It’s been 14 years since I first wore the baggy blue. Honestly, I couldn’t have predicted the path this format would lead me on. Test cricket tested me, shaped my mindset, and taught me lessons I’ll carry forever,” he wrote.
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Kohli acknowledged that leaving Test cricket wasn’t an easy choice, but said it was the right time.
“Walking away from this format is not easy — but it feels right. I’ve given everything to it, and it has given me far more in return. I’m stepping away with a heart full of gratitude — for the game, for my teammates, and for everyone who stood by me throughout,” his statement continued.

The 35-year-old concluded his post by writing, “I’ll always look back at my Test career with a smile. #269, signing off.”
Kohli’s Test record is among the finest in modern cricket. In 123 matches, he scored 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85, including 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries. His highest score of 254 came against South Africa in 2019. Despite not reaching the coveted 10,000-run milestone in the format, Kohli remains one of India’s most prolific and impactful Test players.
Known for his aggressive style, fitness standards, and leadership, Kohli also led India to historic Test series victories, including their first-ever series win in Australia.
With Kohli’s departure, Indian cricket loses another stalwart. Discussions are now likely to intensify around the future of senior fast bowler Mohammed Shami, as the team begins transitioning toward a younger core in red-ball cricket.
Kohli’s retirement leaves behind not just a statistical legacy, but a cultural impact on how modern India approached and respected Test cricket — with intensity, passion, and pride.
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