In what can only be described as the end of a golden chapter in Indian cricket, Virat Kohli has officially announced his retirement from Test cricket, bringing down the curtain on a legendary career in the longest format. The news, which had already started doing rounds a few days ago through sources, was confirmed by Kohli himself through an emotional statement — one that has left the cricketing world in both admiration and disbelief.
Virat Kohli Retirement Message
There’s something deeply personal about playing in whites.” – Virat Kohli
In his heartfelt message, Virat wrote:
“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.
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.
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.
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.”
The statement beautifully sums up what Test cricket meant to Kohli — not just as a player, but as a warrior, a leader, and a student of the game.
A Sudden Yet Thoughtful Exit
Just days after Rohit Sharma’s retirement from Test cricket on May 7, 2025, Kohli’s decision came as a massive shock to fans and the cricket fraternity. While there was no official confirmation at the time, reliable sources had reported that Kohli had informed the BCCI about his intent to step away. The board, in response, had reportedly requested him to reconsider. But with today’s announcement, it is clear that Kohli had made peace with his decision.
Brian Lara Reacts: "Test Cricket Needs Virat!!"
As soon as the news of Virat Kohli’s Test retirement surfaced, legendary West Indies batsman Brian Lara expressed his emotions on social media with a powerful and emotional message. Reacting to Kohli’s exit from red-ball cricket, Lara wrote:
“Test cricket needs Virat!!”
His message reflected what millions of cricket fans were feeling — that Test cricket, already struggling for attention in the modern era, cannot afford to lose an icon like Kohli. Lara’s remark wasn’t just admiration — it was a plea, a sentiment that underlined Kohli’s irreplaceable value to the format.
Reactions after Virat Test Retirement
𝗧𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗸 𝘆𝗼𝘂, 𝗩𝗶𝗿𝗮𝘁 𝗞𝗼𝗵𝗹𝗶! 🙌
— BCCI (@BCCI) May 12, 2025
An era ends in Test cricket but the legacy will continue FOREVER! 🫡🫡@imVkohli, the former Team India Captain retires from Test cricket.
His contributions to #TeamIndia will forever be cherished! 👏 👏 pic.twitter.com/MSe5KUtjep
Congrats to my biscotti @imVkohli on an epic Test career! Your determination & skill have always inspired me. True legend! ❤️🙌🏻 #ViratKohli𓃵 pic.twitter.com/2DnNLRzSrI
— AB de Villiers (@ABdeVilliers17) May 12, 2025
Kohli’s Test Legacy: More Than Just Numbers
Kohli was not only one of India’s most successful Test batters but also arguably its most passionate Test captain. Under his leadership, India became a dominant force in red-ball cricket — both at home and overseas. His emphasis on fitness, aggression, and winning abroad changed the culture of Indian Test cricket.
He retires with 8,848 runs in 113 Tests, including 29 centuries, and a captaincy record that includes historic series wins in Australia and dominance at home. But beyond stats, it was his intensity, his never-give-up attitude, and his deep respect for the whites that defined his Test legacy.
What Now for Indian Test Cricket?
With both Rohit Sharma and now Virat Kohli retiring from Test cricket in quick succession, Indian cricket is clearly at a crossroads. But a new chapter is already taking shape. Sources suggest that Shubman Gill has been chosen as the next Test captain, viewed as a long-term leader who can carry forward the legacy with fresh energy and vision.
Gill, already a star in all formats, brings calmness, maturity, and a hunger to succeed. With his recent appointment as vice-captain and growing leadership roles in white-ball cricket, the BCCI seems committed to grooming him for the future.
In Conclusion: Thank You, Virat
Virat Kohli’s retirement from Test cricket is more than just the end of a career — it’s the closing of an era that redefined Indian cricket’s mindset in the longest format. His passion, aggression, and hunger to win inspired a generation.
As fans, we may be heartbroken to not see him in whites again, but we are equally grateful for the memories he gave us — the Adelaide hundreds, the England fights, the sledging fire, the WTC journey, and most of all, the pride of watching him wear the Indian Test cap like a crown.
Thank you, Virat Kohli. Test cricket was lucky to have you.