On 12 May 2025, Virat Kohli announced his retirement from Test cricket after a glorious career of fourteen years in the longest format. The moment was monumental for Indian cricket, as Kohli stepped away from a format where he had placed a significant imprint.

A Glorious Career 

After making his debut against the West Indies in June 2011, the name of Kohli was intertwined with international cricket.  He slowly but surely evolved into one of the most dominant forces in international cricket, scoring over 9,200 runs in 123 Test matches with 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries, his highest being 254 not out. With his gritty batting and phenomenal skills to chase the almost impossible targets, Kohli became the backbone of the Indian batting lineup. 

Kohli’s forte was consistency and an insatiable hunger for runs. A few notable Test wins underlining his career were India’s first-ever Test series victory in Australia in 2018–19 and several others at home. He also led India to the number one spot in the Test ranking, perhaps the most appropriate reward for his captaincy, along with the combined effort of the team members.

The Decision to Retire 

It was revealed by him that it was a very personal decision and came after a lot of contemplation. The World Test Championship is knocking at the door, and Kohli said it is going to be difficult to make the attempts for peak performance in the test arena; it was time to pass on the mantle to the younger generation. The announcement drew vast respect and admiration from the fans, among those who described Kohli’s choice of test cricket retirement.

Life Ahead of Test Cricket

Kohli says that although he is saying goodbye to Test cricket, he remains an integral part of India’s ODI and IPL teams. Hence, his enjoyment of the game remains alive, and he is expected to once again treat everyone with breathtaking performances in these formats. Further, Kohli would like to take time to engage in other aspects of the game, which include looking after the youngsters and charitable activities via his foundation.

The Personal Travels

Post-retirement declaration, Kohli was seen in Vrindavan along with his wife, actress Anushka Sharma, and embraced many spiritual practices. Hence, going to Shri Premanand Govind Sharan Ji Maharaj’s Kelly Kunj Ashram with Anushka is indeed the beginning of an extensive reflection and personal evolution period that marks the beginning of a very different era in Kohli’s life, wherein the focus is on finding inner peace and spiritual well-being.

The Legacy and Influence

The legacy of Virat Kohli on Indian cricket has no adjective. In other words, Kohli has made budding cricketers aspire to a higher standard in fitness, discipline, and determination. Kohli has redefined standards with his aggressive yet calculated approach. He is endowed with charity works, so it is a question of utmost respect, being an impeccable role model. 

Conclusion

With Virat Kohli’s retirement from Test cricket, one epoch ceases to exist. His accomplishments are threads to be stitched through generations. One wishes him peace, fulfilment, and success from fans and the cricketing fraternity as he embarks upon this new journey in life. Stay ahead in the game with Cricmatch – the mother of all real-time cricket insights, match updates, expert analysis, and statistics. Join millions of crazed-out fans and never miss a single moment of the action on Cricmatch360!