Indian great Virat Kohli has retired from test match cricket ahead of the series in England this summer.
The 36-year-old, who made his debut 14 years ago, follows former Indian captain Rohit Sharma (38), into retirement after speculation about his future grew over the last few days.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had hoped to keep Kohli on board for the series against England this summer but the former captain felt the time was right to hang up his whites.
He announced his retirement on social media and says that test cricket ‘helped shape who he is as a person’ and ‘taught him lessons he’ll carry for life’.
Kohli wrote on Instagram: “It’s been 14 years since I first wore the baggy blue in Test cricket. Honestly, I never imagined the journey this format would take me on. It’s tested me, shaped me, and taught me lessons I’ll carry for life.
“There’s something deeply personal about playing in whites. The quiet grind, the long days, the small moments that no one sees but that stay with you forever.
“As I step away from this format, it’s not easy — but it feels right. I’ve given it everything I had, and it’s given me back so much more than I could’ve hoped for.
“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.”
More to follow…
