• Ab de Villiers, Suresh Raina, Kevin Pietersen and others reacted to Virat Kohli's retirement from Test cricket.

  • The 36-year-old left behind a formidable legacy built over 123 Test matches, amassing 9230 runs, 30 centuries and 31 fifties.

Cricket fraternity hails Virat Kohli after his retirement from Test cricket
Virat Kohli (Image Source: X)

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Virat Kohli, one of India’s greatest-ever cricketers, has officially announced his retirement from Test cricket. The 36-year-old, who debuted in 2011, leaves behind a formidable legacy built over 123 Test matches, amassing 9230 runs, 30 centuries, and 31 fifties. His decision follows closely on the heels of Rohit Sharma’s unexpected exit from the red-ball format, marking a significant transitional phase for Indian cricket.

Kohli made the announcement via his official Instagram handle, a move that instantly drew emotional reactions from across the cricketing world. His retirement severs one of the strongest connections between Indian fans and the longest format of the game.

Virat Kohli’s declining form in Test cricket

Kohli’s last Test outing came during the high-stakes Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia, a series that proved to be a personal struggle. Despite showcasing glimpses of brilliance with a century in Perth, the seasoned batter could only accumulate 190 runs over five matches. His form in that series drew increasing scrutiny, with growing questions over his place in the Test side. While Kohli has long been known for his hunger, intensity, and ability to perform under pressure, the Australia tour exposed a vulnerability that ultimately may have influenced his decision. For a player of his stature, exiting on his own terms perhaps seemed the most dignified path forward.

Kohli’s legacy as captain

Beyond his batting achievements, Kohli’s impact as captain was transformative. He led India in 68 Tests, securing 40 wins—a record for any Indian Test captain. Under his leadership, India climbed to the top of the ICC Test rankings and registered their first-ever Test series victory on Australian soil in 2018-19, a feat etched in history. Kohli’s aggressive and fitness-focused approach redefined India’s Test culture, and his departure now leaves a significant leadership and batting void. While he is expected to continue serving India in ODIs, his absence in Tests presents a major challenge for selectors and team management, who must now look to the next generation to carry forward his legacy.

Also READ: Is Virat Kohli scared? County Cricket mocks former Indian captain ahead of England Test tour

Here’s how cricket fraternity reacted: 

Also READ: No Virat Kohli! India’s 18-member Test squad for England tour 2025 – Predicted

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