Key Points
- Virat Kohli retires from Test cricket on May 12, ending a 14-year illustrious red-ball career.
- Kohli scored 9,230 runs in 123 Tests with 30 centuries and 7 double centuries-the most by any Indian captain.
- He captained India in 68 Tests, winning 40 matches, becoming India’s most successful Test captain.
- Australian media praised Kohli’s fearless batting and competitive spirit, calling him a “tormentor-in-chief.”
- Fans worldwide expressed heartbreak and admiration; speculation continues about his ODI future.
- Kohli will continue playing ODIs after retiring from T20 Internationals last year.
New Delhi: On May 12, 2025, Indian cricket legend Virat Kohli announced his retirement from Test cricket, bringing to a close one of the most remarkable careers in the history of the longest format. The news sent shockwaves through the cricketing world, leaving millions of fans emotional and reflective on Kohli’s immense contributions to Indian and world cricket.
Kohli’s 14-year Test journey began in 2011 and saw him evolve into one of India’s greatest batsmen and captains. Over 123 matches, he amassed 9,230 runs at an impressive average of 46.85, including 30 centuries and 7 double centuries-the highest number of double tons by any Indian captain. His highest score of 254 not out against South Africa in 2019 showcased his ability to dominate world-class bowling attacks.
Kohli’s Captaincy: India’s Most Successful Test Leader
Virat Kohli’s leadership tenure from 2014 to 2022 is etched in history as India’s most successful Test captain. Under his captaincy, India won 40 out of 68 Tests, surpassing legends like MS Dhoni and Sourav Ganguly. His 40 wins place him fourth on the all-time list behind Graeme Smith (53), Ricky Ponting (48), and Steve Waugh (41).
Kohli’s captaincy highlights include India’s historic series win in Australia (2018-19), a milestone that ended Australia’s long home dominance. His aggressive and passionate approach inspired a new generation of cricketers and brought a fierce competitive spirit to the Indian team.
Australian Media Hails Kohli as a Fearless Competitor
Australian newspapers and broadcasters paid heartfelt tributes to Kohli, acknowledging his impact on cricket Down Under. The Sydney Morning Herald described him as a “fearless batsman” whose “incredible batting talent and sharp attitude” earned admiration and occasional friction with Australian crowds. His first series in Australia (2011-12) saw him score a century despite India’s 4-0 loss, marking him as a standout performer.
The Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) praised Kohli’s captaincy, calling him India’s most successful Test skipper and highlighting his 40 wins in 68 matches. Australian media also recalled memorable moments, including Kohli’s infamous “sandpaper” gesture to the crowd in January 2025, which marked the end of his Test career.
Fans and Cricketing Legends React to Kohli’s Retirement
Social media platforms exploded with tributes, emotional messages, and nostalgic memories from fans and fellow cricketers alike. Kohli’s childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma lauded his extraordinary Test career and expressed hope for Kohli’s continued success in ODIs. Legends like Sachin Tendulkar and current India head coach Gautam Gambhir also paid glowing tributes.
Many fans shared heartfelt memes and videos, mourning the end of an era in Indian Test cricket. Speculation about Kohli’s future in ODIs intensified, with many expecting the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup to be his final international tournament.
Career Summary: Virat Kohli’s Test Cricket Milestones
| Statistic | Number |
|---|---|
| Matches Played | 123 |
| Total Runs | 9,230 |
| Batting Average | 46.85 |
| Centuries | 30 |
| Half-Centuries | 31 |
| Double Centuries | 7 |
| Highest Score | 254* |
| Tests as Captain | 68 |
| Wins as Captain | 40 |
What Lies Ahead for Virat Kohli?
Having already retired from T20 Internationals after India’s 2024 World Cup triumph, Kohli now focuses on the ODI format. His immense experience and skill will be crucial as India prepares for upcoming international challenges, including the 2027 World Cup. Fans and experts alike eagerly await his next chapters, hoping to witness more masterful innings from one of cricket’s modern greats.
Virat Kohli’s farewell to Test cricket marks the end of a glittering chapter for Indian cricket. His fearless batting, relentless passion, and leadership have left an indelible mark on the sport, inspiring millions and elevating India’s stature on the global stage. As he steps away from the whites, the cricketing world salutes a true legend.
