Virat Kohli announces retirement from Test cricket

After a legendary 14-year career for India, the star cricketer signs off from the longest format of the game.

After two days of speculation, Virat Kohli took to Instagram to post about his retirement from Test cricket, breaking the hearts of fans all over the world. He made his retirement from Test cricket official, announcing his decision through a heartfelt note on social media.

Virat Kohli retires from Test cricket.

Making it official and ending all speculations, Virat Kohli took to Instagram to share a heartfelt message, announcing his retirement from Test cricket and breaking the hearts of millions of fans all over the world. Kohli, 36, made the decision days after fellow Indian cricketer Rohit Sharma bid adieu to the game’s longest format.

Virat Kohli’s message about retirement from Test cricket.

On Monday, the star cricketer announced on social media, “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 added, “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.” He concluded, “I’ll always look back at my Test career with a smile. #269 signing off.”

Kohli’s retirement means the Sydney Test against Australia is his last in the format.