Virat Kohli announces his retirement from Test Cricket, 'It's not an easy decision but it feels right, #269 signing off'
Indian Cricket Team's legendary Virat Kohli on Monday, 12th of May, announced a tough decision of retiring from Test Cricket, a format he loves, bringing an end to an astounding journey of 14 years in the longest format of the game. This announcement of his retirement came shortly after former skipper Rohit Sharma's decision to move away from Red-ball Cricket.
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Virat made the announcement via a emotional message on his Instagram handle, writing,"It has been 14 years since I first donned the baggy blue in Test cricket. Honestly, I never anticipated the journey that this format would lead me on. It has challenged me, molded me, and imparted lessons that I will cherish for a lifetime.
There is something profoundly personal about playing in whites. The subtle hard work, the extended hours, the fleeting moments that go unnoticed but remain with you eternally.
As I step away from this format, it’s difficult — yet it feels right. I’ve poured everything I had into it, and it has given me far more than I ever expected.
I’m leaving with a heart brimming with gratitude — for the sport, for the teammates I shared the field with, and for everyone who made me feel acknowledged throughout my journey.
I will always reflect on my Test career with fondness".
Regarded as one of the best players in the sport, Virat took part in a total of 113 Test matches for the Men in Blue, amassing more than 8,700 runs at an excellent average of 49, including 29 tons and seven double centuries. Under his leadership, the Indian team reached the first spot in the Test team rankings on more than two occassions and also recorded historic wins on overseas soil, including a famous series win in the Border Gavaskar Trophy series in Australia.
He made the number four spot in the side his own and his departure from the format leaves a massive gap in the red-ball squad of Team India but it indicates a deliberate change in focus towards the One Day International format in preparation for the 2027 ODI World Cup.