After 14 years, cricketer Virat Kohli announced his retirement from Test cricket, expressing his gratitude for the valuable lessons and unforgettable memories. He reflected on his personal bond with the game, how it has shaped him, and the significance of the experiences gained throughout his career.
Sharing a picture in his Test cricket jersey, Virat wrote, “It’s been 14 years since I first donned the baggy blue in Test cricket. Honestly, I never anticipated the path this format would take me on. It has tested me, molded me, and imparted lessons I’ll cherish forever. There’s something incredibly personal about playing in whites—the quiet struggles, the long days, and the small moments no one notices but stay with you for a lifetime.”
He continued, “Leaving this format isn’t easy, but it feels like the right decision. I’ve given my all, and the game has returned far more than I ever imagined. I walk away with a heart full of gratitude—for the sport, for the teammates I’ve shared the field with, and for everyone who made me feel acknowledged along the way. I’ll always look back on my Test career with a smile. #269, signing off. ”
Kohli’s retirement announcement comes shortly after Rohit Sharma revealed his decision to retire from Test cricket during the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL). After 14 years, the former India captain chose to end his remarkable Test cricket career. However, Kohli will continue to represent India in the ODI format as the team prepares for the 2027 World Cup.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) took to X to share a series of posts titled, “𝗥𝗲𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮 𝗴𝗹𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗼𝘂𝘀 𝗧𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗿!” highlighting key moments from the former Indian cricket captain’s career.
In a separate post, the BCCI expressed its gratitude for Kohli’s significant contributions to Indian Test cricket.
The post read, “𝗧𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗸 𝘆𝗼𝘂, 𝗩𝗶𝗿𝗮𝘁 𝗞𝗼𝗵𝗹𝗶! While an era in Test cricket comes to an end, his legacy will last FOREVER! @imVkohli, the former captain of Team India, announces his retirement from Test cricket. His contributions to #TeamIndia will always be remembered and treasured!”