Virat Kohli, one of India’s greatest cricketers, finally announced his retirement from Test cricket on Monday, bringing an end to a distinguished 14-year career in the red-ball format during which he played 123 matches.
“As I step away from this format, it’s not easy — but it feels right,” Kohli shared in a statement on Instagram. “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.”
The 36-year-old’s retirement closely follows the recent departure of Rohit Sharma from Test cricket, marking the exit of two of India’s most senior batters ahead of the upcoming tour of England.
Test Career
Kohli amassed 9,230 runs in Test matches, including 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries, finishing with a batting average of 46.85. As captain, he led India in 68 Tests, securing 40 victories — the most by any.
| Matches Played | 123 |
| Innings Batted | 211 |
| Not Outs | 11 |
| Total Runs | 9,230 |
| Highest Score | 254 |
| Batting Average | 46.85 |
| Centuries (100s) | 30 |
| Half-Centuries (50s) | 31 |
| Double Centuries (200s) | 7 |
| Balls Faced | 16,920+ |
| Strike Rate | Approx. 54.55 |
| Ducks (0s) | 14 |
| Catches | 110 |
| Matches as Captain | 68 |
| Wins as Captain | 40 |
