In a moment that stunned cricket fans across the globe, Virat Kohli announced his retirement from Test cricket, bringing an end to a glorious chapter in Indian cricket history.
Known for his unmatched passion, aggressive style, and unbreakable spirit, Kohli’s decision to walk away from the longest format has left both fans and teammates emotional.
For over 14 years, Kohli redefined India’s Test legacy, leading from the front, embracing challenges, and raising the team’s standards, especially in overseas conditions. From memorable centuries in Australia and South Africa to iconic wins as captain, Kohli brought fire, flair, and fitness to the Indian red-ball setup.
Kohli’s absence will create a big void, not just for the Indian team, but for Test cricket as a whole. He wasn’t just a player; he was a force. For fans, it’s the end of seeing Kohli walk out in whites, with those intense eyes and unmatched energy. For the team, his experience, leadership instincts, and fighting spirit will be irreplaceable.
Across 113 Test matches, Kohli scored 8,848 runs, including 29 centuries, at an average of 49.15. As captain, he led India to 40 wins — the most by an Indian Test captain. He revolutionized India’s approach to Test cricket, especially abroad, and brought world-class fitness and mindset into the team culture.
Gautam Gambhir pays rich tribute after Virat Kohli retired from Tests
Reacting to Kohli’s retirement, Gautam Gambhir paid a heartfelt tribute to his former teammate, calling him a “man with lion’s passion.” In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Gambhir wrote: “A man with lion’s passion! Will miss u cheeks….” The emotional sign-off — “cheeks” — was a throwback to the bond they once shared. The last time Kohli and Gambhir featured together in a Test match for India was during the 2014–15 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, which India lost 1-3.
In his retirement post, Kohli expressed how deeply Test cricket has impacted his 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. As I step away from this format, it’s not easy — but it feels right.” He added, “I’ve given it everything I had, and it’s given me back so much more than I could’ve hoped for.”
Virat Kohli’s journey in Test cricket may have ended, but his legacy will continue to inspire generations. The whites may no longer bear his name, but his fire will live on forever.