Indian cricket star Virat Kohli announced his retirement from Test matches, saying ‘it feels right’

Virat Kohli announced his retirement from the longest and most traditional format of the sport, Test cricket, marking the end of his impressive career. The departure of the Indian cricket legend closes an important chapter in India’s cricket history.

Kohli’s decision to retire from the format came days after Romit Sharma, who took over as captain after Kohli, also announced his retirement from the format. Both retirements seemed to come at an important time, as India is preparing to begin a five-match Test series against England starting on Jun 20. The athlete’s absence marks the end of an era for Indian Test cricket, and the team will move forward without two of its most experienced players. 

In a social media post, the athlete expressed: “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 added: “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… #269, signing off.” 

Netizens expressed their thoughts in the comments section of the post and said: “Whites will not be the same without you 💔,” “You’ll be missed GOAT the next time india comes out in whites.🥺💔,” and “Thank you for everything! 👑🙌” 

Kohli’s athletic performance

Virat Kohli made his Test debut in 2011 and has had an exceptional career in red-ball cricket. Throughout his career, he played 123 Test matches, scoring 9,230 runs with a batting average of 46.85. His successes include 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries, making him one of India’s top batsmen in Test history.

Kohli also led India in 68 Tests as a captain and holds the record as the country’s most successful Test captain, having won 40 of these matches. Undoubtedly, his leadership contributed to India’s rise in world cricket.