Virat Kohli to Retire from Test Cricket? Here’s What’s Really Going On
Is Virat Kohli Really Done with Tests?
Yep, you heard that right. After 13 iconic years in white flannels, Virat Kohli has reportedly told the BCCI he’s ready to hang up his Test boots. No, it’s not a drill—and it’s hitting fans harder than a Jasprit Bumrah bouncer.
Honestly, for someone who’s carried the soul of Indian Test cricket on his sleeve, this feels personal. I still remember watching him captain that historic 2018 series win in Australia. That wasn’t just cricket—it was poetry in aggression.
So, Why Now?
Here’s the thing—Kohli is 36. He’s already retired from T20 captaincy, stepped away from ODI leadership, and hasn’t played a single Test since December 2024. While he scored a gritty ton in the first match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, his overall form in the series wasn’t his best—just 190 runs in five Tests.
And let’s not forget, Rohit Sharma also bowed out of Tests recently. It's like watching the seniors leave the classroom one by one.
But this wasn’t a snap decision. According to sources, Kohli had hinted at stepping away as early as last year. His conversation with BCCI was more of a heads-up than a negotiation.
What Does This Mean for Team India?
Big shift incoming. Kohli’s absence creates a huge vacuum in leadership, stability, and plain old charisma. But it also opens doors for Gen Z stars like Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal to step up.
The England Test series kicks off June 20th, and honestly, the lineup is going to look very different. The BCCI is reportedly trying to convince Kohli to reconsider—but the man seems firm.
Quick Recap: Kohli’s Test Legacy
- Matches: 123
- Runs: 9,230
- Centuries: 30
- Wins as captain: 40 out of 68 Tests
- Notable highlight: First Asian captain to win a Test series in Australia (2018–19)
FAQ: Virat Kohli Test Retirement
Q: Has Kohli officially announced his Test retirement?
Not yet. But he has informed the BCCI of his intention.
Q: Will he play the England series?
Highly unlikely, unless he reconsiders last minute.
Q: Is this the end of his international career?
Nope. He’s still expected to play in white-ball formats.
