In a move that has stunned the cricketing world, India’s star batter Virat Kohli announced his retirement from Test cricket on May 12 through an emotional Instagram post. The 36-year-old, known for his passion, aggression, and unmatched work ethic, ended a legendary red-ball career spanning 123 Tests, scoring 9230 runs at an average of 46.85, including 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries. His highest Test score of 254 stands as a symbol of his dominance at the crease.
Kohli’s contribution to India’s red-ball renaissance cannot be overstated. As a leader and a batsman, he revolutionized fitness standards, instilled an aggressive mindset, and guided India to historic overseas triumphs in Australia and England.
However, Kohli’s decision to walk away from the format left many, including former India head coach Ravi Shastri, with a sense of loss. Speaking to Sportstar, Shastri expressed disappointment over not seeing Kohli in the upcoming five-Test series in England starting June 20.
“I am sure Virat still had two years of Test cricket left in him. I would have loved to see him in England this summer,” said Shastri. “He was fit, strong, and still had the hunger. Perhaps mental fatigue was the decisive factor.”
Shastri even suggested that handing Kohli the captaincy for the England tour might have reinvigorated his Test career. He emphasized that burnout—not fitness—may have led to the retirement at what he considers a critical phase for Indian cricket.
Furthermore, Shastri believes Kohli’s post-retirement life will be a clean break from the sport.
“He is not someone who will coach or commentate. When he retires from all formats, he’ll walk away quietly. That’s his style—no fuss.”
With his Test and T20I careers now behind him, Kohli will focus solely on ODIs, a format where he still remains a key pillar in India’s plans. His experience and presence will be vital as India looks toward the Champions Trophy 2025.
While the cricketing world may never witness Kohli walking out to bat in whites again, his legacy as one of India’s finest Test cricketers is firmly etched in the history books.
