Indian cricket is at a crossroads as former skipper Virat Kohli has formally announced his Test cricket retirement. The announcement comes barely days before India’s highly anticipated tour of England, set to start on June 20. The Indian Express reports that Kohli had informed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) of his intention many days ago.
The cricketing great confirmed the news in an emotional social media post, looking back at his amazing journey in the longest version of the game. He posted, “It’s been 14 years since I first donned the baggy blue in Test cricket. Truthfully, I never thought the journey this game would take me on. It’s tested me, moulded me, and taught me things I’ll take with me for life.”
He went on, “There’s something incredibly personal about competing in whites. The silent grind, the endless days, the little things no one notices but which linger with you for the rest of your life. As I leave this format, it’s not simple — but it’s right. I’ve left everything out there, and it’s given me so much more than I could have dreamed.
Kohli ended the emotional letter with appreciation: “I’m walking away with a heart full of gratitude — for the game, for the people I shared the field with, and for every single person who made me feel seen along the way. I’ll always look back at my Test career with a smile. #269, signing off ❤️”
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Second Blow After Rohit Sharma’s Exit
Kohli’s retirement follows closely on the heels of another bombshell — captain Rohit Sharma’s sudden exit from Test cricket. The dual departures leave a massive void in India’s batting order and overall experience. A senior BCCI official reportedly requested Kohli to reconsider his decision, but the veteran batsman seems firm in his stance.
Fans Shocked
The news has left fans of “King Kohli” heartbroken. Social media was full of love, gratitude, and disbelief reactions. One fan put up, “Ab se test cricket dekhna band ???? (No more watching Test cricket from now on).” Another was disappointed with, “Why Kohli Why!” Others hallowed his name with messages such as, “Thank you man for unforgettable memories in this format.you’re always my cricketing idol forever,” and “???? End of an Era, Signing of beautifully ❤️”
