Virat Kohli, one of India’s greatest cricketers, has officially retired from Test cricket at the age of 36. His retirement comes after a legendary 14-year career in red-ball cricket, where he played 123 Test matches and scored 9,230 runs. His impressive record includes 30 centuries, 31 half-centuries, and a batting average of 46.85.
Kohli made his Test debut in 2011 against the West Indies and quickly became a pillar of Indian batting, especially after Sachin Tendulkar retired in 2013. Over the years, Kohli became known not just for his batting, but also for his aggressive and passionate captaincy. He led India in 68 Test matches, winning 40 of them—the most by any Indian captain.
His retirement comes just days after fellow senior player Rohit Sharma also stepped away from Test cricket. With both experienced players now out of the red-ball format, Team India faces a major transition. The selectors will need to choose a new captain and reorganise the batting order before a tough five-match Test series starting June 20.
Kohli’s departure marks the end of an era in Indian cricket. Fans, players, and experts alike are now reflecting on his massive contributions to Indian cricket and the legacy he leaves behind.