New Delhi, May 12 (V7N) – One of the finest batsmen in the history of the game, Virat Kohli, has officially announced his retirement from Test cricket, bringing down the curtain on a glittering 14-year red-ball career.

The announcement came on Monday via his official Instagram account, just days after Indian Cricket Board officials requested him to reconsider. Kohli, however, stood firm in his decision, echoing a similar farewell to the format as his former teammate Rohit Sharma, who retired from Test cricket earlier on Wednesday.

In an emotional post, Kohli wrote:
“14 years ago, I first wore the blue baggy cap of Test cricket. To be honest, I didn’t know then how far this format would take me… This format tested me. It shaped me. It taught me. I will carry these lessons for the rest of my life.”

He went on to express his deep emotional bond with Test cricket, saying:
“There are some deeply personal things about playing in whites — the quiet environment, playing for long periods, the small moments that no one sees. But these will stay with me forever.”

Kohli admitted it wasn’t an easy decision to walk away but felt it was the right time.
“I leave with a heart full of gratitude — for the game, for those I have shared the field with, and for every person who has met me along the way. I will always look back on my Test career with a smile.”

A Glorious Test Record

Kohli played 123 Test matches, scoring 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85. His red-ball career includes 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries, a testament to his consistency and dominance across conditions and opponents.

Having already retired from T20 cricket, Kohli's exit from the Test arena marks the end of an era in Indian cricket. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest Indian cricketers of all time, known not only for his aggressive style and technical brilliance but also for transforming the team with his leadership and passion.

His retirement has sent waves across the cricketing world, with fans, former cricketers, and sports personalities paying tribute to a remarkable Test career.

END/MSS/AJ