Our Bureau
New Delhi
Indian cricket fans are in a whirlwind of emotions as one of their favourite stars has decided to hang his boots and retire from the longest format of the game. Virat Kohli, arguably the biggest star and sports icon of India, has decided to retire from the Test format. The icon who retired from T20Is in 2024 after the World Cup victory has now decided to call it a day in the red-ball format as well.
Virat Kohli took to his social media to inform his fans of his retirement through an emotional post highlighting his test journey. Virat said in his post that this journey in Test cricket has tested him, shaped him and taught him lessons for life.
He 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.”
He also mentioned that this decision was not easy for him but felt right to him. Kohli said he gave his everything to the format and will always look back at his test career with a smile.
“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.”
Acknowledging the greatness of Virat Kohli, the Board of Control for Cricket in India also commented on his retirement through their social media handles. They wrote, “Thank you, Virat Kohli! An era ends in Test cricket but the legacy will continue FOREVER!” They also added, “His contributions to Team India will forever be cherished!”
Virat Kohli has been India’s best test batter for the better part of the last 12 years, his hunger for runs and eagerness to achieve excellence helped in shaping Indian cricket. He was not just the best batter for the team, he was also a great leader, one who led from the front and showed India’s fearless side to the world. He will now finish his career as the fourth leading run scorer in the history of Indian test cricket just behind Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid and Sunil Gavaskar.
