On May 12, Virat Kohli officially announced his retirement from Test cricket, concluding a remarkable 14-year journey in the format. During his career, he featured in 123 Tests, including 68 as captain, amassing 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85.
Kohli shared his decision through a statement on social media on Monday morning, reflecting on his time in whites.
“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 wrote.
“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,” added Kohli.
“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,” he further penned.
As per ESPNcricinfo, Kohli had informed the BCCI of his intention to retire from the longest format ahead of the upcoming five-match Test series in England, which begins on June 20.
Though he was expected to be named in the squad, it’s understood that discussions regarding his retirement had been ongoing with BCCI officials for the past month.
