Virat Kohli Retires from Test Cricket: A Legendary Era Comes to an End
Virat Kohli officially announced his retirement from Test cricket through an emotional post on Instagram, leaving 140 crore Indians heartbroken. In his message, he wrote, “269 signing off”, referring to his Test cap number. With this announcement, Kohli confirmed that he will not be part of the upcoming tour to England.
Virat said, ‘It has been 14 years since I wore the blue jersey for the first time in Test cricket. Honestly, I never imagined what journey this format would take me on.
It tested me, shaped me and taught me lessons that I will carry with me for a lifetime.
Playing in white clothes is a very personal experience. Quiet hard work, long days, small moments that no one sees, but which stay with you forever.
Kohli further said, ‘When I am walking away from this format, it is not easy – but it feels right. I have given my all in it and it has given me more than I expected. I am leaving with a heart full of gratitude for the game, for the people playing on the field and for everyone who took me forward in this journey. I will always look back at my Test career with a smile.’
Virat Kohli Retires from Test Cricket
Virat Kohli Test Matches statistics
- Virat Kohli represented India in 123 Test matches,
- he scored a remarkable 9,230 runs in 210 innings at an impressive average of 46.85,
- he scored 30 centuries, 31 half-centuries, and 7 double centuries.
- Kohli remained not out 13 times in his Test career,
- maintained a strike rate of 55.58, and
- showcased his class with 1,027 fours and 30 sixes.
Kohli has scored 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries in Tests.
Virat Kohli announces his Test retirement on his Instagram post:
Earlier, Virat Kohli had expressed his desire to retire from Test cricket. He had earlier informed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), however, BCCI had asked him to reconsider his decision.
Virat’s Debut and Final Test
Virat Kohli made his Test debut against West Indies on 20 June 2011.
- He played his last Test on 3 January 2025 in BGT.
Struggles in Recent Years
Virat’s performance in the recent Border-Gavaskar series was not good.
- He scored 190 runs in 9 innings including an unbeaten century.
- He scored runs at an average of 23.75 in this series.
- 7 out of 8 dismissals: Outside the off-stump.
Over the past five years, he managed only 3 centuries in 37 Tests, and his average dropped below 35 — far from his prime form.
You’ve inspired a generation of cricketers and fans alike. We’ll miss seeing you in whites, but we’re excited to see you continue playing ODIs and mentoring younger players.
Thank you for the memories, Virat! Your Test career will always be remembered with a smile 
Do you think Virat retired under pressure?
