Virat Kohli has announced his retirement from Test cricket, concluding a remarkable 14-year journey in the longest format of the game. The 36-year-old made the announcement on May 12, 2025, via an emotional Instagram post, stating, "It’s not easy — but it feels right... 269, signing off." The number "269" signifies Kohli as the 269th player to represent India in Test cricket .
Kohli's leadership was instrumental in India's ascent to the No. 1 Test ranking and their historic series win in Australia. His aggressive batting style and consistency in challenging conditions earned him a place among the all-time greats
Career Highlights:
- Matches Played: 123 Tests
- Runs Scored: 9,230
- Centuries: 30
- Average: 46.85
Captaincy Record: Led India in 68 Tests, securing 40 victories—the most by any Indian Test captain .
Emotional Farewell
In his retirement message, Kohli reflected on the profound impact Test cricket had on his life, describing it as a journey that "tested me, shaped me, and taught me lessons I’ll carry for life" . His wife, Anushka Sharma, shared a heartfelt message revealing Kohli's hidden tears and personal sacrifices, further resonating with fans worldwide .