In a move that has left cricket fans around the world stunned, Virat Kohli has decided to hang up his boots in Test cricket.
Just days before India is set to announce its squad for the upcoming tour of England, the legendary batter took to Instagram to make the heartfelt announcement.
The timing couldn’t have been more unexpected—especially with Rohit Sharma stepping away from the red-ball format only days earlier.
Now, Kohli has joined him, bringing an end to one of Indian cricket’s most celebrated Test careers.
A Journey of Grit, Greatness, and Glory
Since making his debut back in 2011, Kohli carved out an unforgettable chapter in Indian cricket.
With 123 matches under his belt, he racked up 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85.
His numbers include 30 centuries, 31 fifties, and a jaw-dropping highest score of 254 not out.
In his Instagram message to fans—who number a staggering 271 million—Kohli looked back with immense pride:
“It’s been 14 years since I first wore the baggy blue in Test cricket… it’s not easy – but it feels right. I’ve given it everything I had.”
King of the Test Arena and India’s Most Successful Captain
Let’s not forget what he achieved as a leader.
Kohli led India in 68 Tests, winning 40 of them—a record that puts him ahead of greats like MS Dhoni and Sourav Ganguly.
Under his captaincy, India became a dominant force in world cricket, especially in the longer format.
He led with fire, passion, and an uncompromising spirit.
From winning in Australia to nearly conquering England, Kohli’s impact extended far beyond the stat sheet.
Slipping Form but Undying Spirit
While his passion never wavered, Kohli’s performance in Tests had dipped in recent years.
After a golden period from 2011 to 2019 where he averaged close to 55, the last two years saw that drop to just over 32.
His final series in Australia earlier this year
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