1. What happened?
On May 12, 2025, Virat Kohli (36) announced his retirement from Test cricket—just days after Rohit Sharma’s decision—ending a 14-year career in the format
He played 123 Tests, scoring 9,230 runs at an average of 46.8, including 30 centuries and a highest score of 254*
2. Why did he retire?
???? Form & motivation
In recent seasons, Kohli’s Test form declined; he managed just one century in his last 10 Tests
Former India bowling coach Paras Mhambrey said Kohli “didn’t have five years of Test cricket left in him” and lacked the motivation to give his best
???? Mental and physical fatigue
Geoffrey Boycott and others cited mental fatigue as a factor, calling it “draining” to endure so much cricket with little rest
Kohli himself reflected: “As I step away… I’ve given it everything I had,” acknowledging both physical demands and mental strain
???? Planned exit
Selector Ajit Agarkar revealed Kohli decided in early April, well ahead of the public announcement, understanding that if he couldn’t maintain his high standards it was time to step aside
3. Reactions & legacy
Sachin Tendulkar viewed it as the natural generational shift ushering in a new era for India
Alastair Cook termed it a "clean slate" for Indian dressing room dynamics
Ben Stokes said India will miss Kohli’s “fighting spirit… competitiveness and desire to win,” noting it’s strange seeing no. 18 on the pitch
His departure alongside Rohit Sharma and Ravichandran Ashwin marks a major generational shift as India embarks on its Test series in England
4. What’s next for Kohli?
He continues playing ODIs for India and remains a key part of IPL (RCB).
Dinesh Karthik noted Kohli seems “at his happiest,” more relaxed yet driven after stepping away from Tests
He’s hinted at "an end date" for future roles like Impact Player in IPL
???? 5. What it means for Team India
The upcoming England Test series (starting June 20, 2025) sees Shubman Gill taking over as captain, with the team stepping into a new era without stalwarts like Kohli and Rohit
KL Rahul admits it feels strange to start without them, emphasizing support for younger players
???? Final take
Virat Kohli’s Test retirement on May 12, 2025 signifies the closing of a golden chapter in Indian red-ball cricket. His stellar record—over 9,200 runs, 30 centuries, 40 wins as captain—cements his place in history. While reasons include form decline, fatigue, and a planned exit, the emotional and strategic legacy he leaves behind shapes the future of Indian Test cricket.
- https://jayarana.com/