Sports: In a move that has sent shockwaves through the cricketing world, star batsman Virat Kohli today announced his retirement from Test cricket. The announcement, made via a heartfelt statement on his official Instagram account, brings an end to his remarkable 14-year journey in the longest format of the game.
The timing of Kohli’s decision comes as a surprise, particularly with India’s highly anticipated five-match Test series against England looming, set to commence on June 20 at Headingley in Leeds. His absence will undoubtedly be felt by the Indian squad and fans alike.
Reflecting on his extensive career, Kohli shared poignant thoughts on the format that has defined a significant chapter of his professional life. “It’s been 14 years since I first wore the baggy blue in Test cricket. Honestly, I never imagined the journey this format would take me on. It’s tested me, shaped me, and taught me lessons I’ll carry for life,” he wrote, encapsulating the profound impact Test cricket has had on him.
Kohli further elaborated on the unique essence of Test cricket, stating, “There’s something deeply personal about playing in whites. The quiet grind, the long days, the small moments that no one sees but that stay with you forever.” His words highlight the intrinsic challenges and rewards that come with the traditional form of the sport.
Expressing a mix of emotions, Kohli conveyed the weight of his decision. “As I step away from this format, it’s not easy — but it feels right. I’ve given it everything I had, and it’s given me back so much more than I could’ve hoped for,” he affirmed, signaling a sense of closure and gratitude.
In his farewell message, Kohli extended his appreciation to all those who have been part of his journey. “I’m walking away with a heart full of gratitude — for the game, for the people I shared the field with, and for every single person who made me feel seen along the way. I’ll always look back at my Test career with a smile,” he concluded, leaving a lasting impression of his deep connection with the sport and its community.
Virat Kohli departs the Test arena as a true legend, holding the esteemed position of India’s fourth-highest run-scorer in the format. His tally of 9,230 runs places him behind only the iconic trio of Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, and Sunil Gavaskar. His Test debut came against the West Indies in Jamaica, marking the beginning of an era.
His final appearance in the traditional format was earlier this year, during the New Year’s Test against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground in January. Throughout his illustrious career spanning 123 Tests, Kohli showcased his exceptional talent, scoring 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries, with a remarkable highest score of 254 against South Africa in Pune in 2019.
Kohli’s retirement closely follows the recent announcement by another veteran, Rohit Sharma, who stepped away from Test cricket on May 7. Notably, both celebrated cricketers had faced challenges during the 2024–25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy, adding a layer of contemplation to their decisions to bid adieu to the longest format of the game.
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