In a heartfelt and emotional announcement, Indian cricket legend Virat Kohli has officially retired from Test cricket, bringing an end to an era that defined modern Indian batting.

The 36-year-old icon, known for his intensity, passion, and relentless consistency, shared the news on Instagram on Monday, confirming speculations that had been swirling around his future in the format.

Kohli, who debuted in 2011, played 113 Test matches for India over a span of 14 years. During this remarkable journey, he amassed 9230 runs, including 30 centuries, with a batting average of 46.85. His presence on the field—whether as a batsman, a captain, or a vocal team leader—redefined India’s approach to Test cricket in the 2010s.

“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,” Kohli wrote in his Instagram post.

“There’s something deeply personal about playing in whites... 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.”

The post also featured a nostalgic photo of Kohli wearing his iconic Indian Test jersey, tagged with his Test cap number #269, marking the end of an era in Indian cricket.

A Wave of Farewells in Indian Test Cricket

Kohli’s retirement comes just days after Rohit Sharma also bid farewell to the longest format of the game. Earlier in December, ace spinner Ravichandran Ashwin had also stepped away from Test cricket. These back-to-back announcements mark a turning point for Indian Test cricket, signaling a generational shift.

These exits are more than just personal milestones—they represent a transition for the Indian team. Kohli, Ashwin, and Rohit were central to India’s successes in the past decade, both at home and overseas. Kohli, in particular, brought unmatched aggression and professionalism to the side, turning India into a dominant force, especially in overseas conditions.

Kohli’s Legacy in the Whites

While Kohli's achievements in limited-overs cricket are well-documented, his contributions to the Test format have been particularly significant. Under his leadership, India reached the No. 1 ranking in Tests and qualified for the inaugural World Test Championship final in 2021. He captained India in 68 Test matches, winning 40—making him India’s most successful Test captain to date.

One of the most iconic images of Kohli remains his passionate celebrations on foreign soil—whether it was the historic win at the Gabba or his gritty hundred at Perth. He never shied away from challenges, often putting team performance over personal milestones.

What’s Next for Kohli?

Although Kohli is walking away from Test cricket, he’s not hanging up his boots entirely. The batting superstar will continue to represent India in One Day Internationals (ODIs), especially with the focus now shifting towards the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy and other upcoming tournaments. He had already retired from T20 Internationals last year.

Kohli’s Test retirement also frees up some room for younger players to step up and make their mark. While the void he leaves behind is enormous, it also opens up exciting new possibilities for Team India as it moves into a new phase.

Virat and Anushka’s Post-Retirement Public Appearance

Shortly after his announcement, Kohli was spotted at Mumbai airport with his wife, actress Anushka Sharma. The couple smiled for the paparazzi, making their first public appearance since the big news.

Virat opted for a laid-back look with a white T-shirt and beige trousers, while Anushka kept it casual yet vibrant in a multi-colored shirt paired with jeans. Despite appearing to be in a bit of a hurry, the couple paused to greet photographers, a gesture fans appreciated.

Their appearance came just weeks after Kohli was in the headlines for accidentally liking a photo of actress Avneet Kaur on Instagram—a moment that created a brief buzz online, but didn’t seem to affect his focus or demeanor.

A Fitting Farewell

Kohli’s message to fans and the cricketing world was clear: he’s leaving the format not because it’s easy, but because the timing feels right.

“I’ve given it everything I had,” he said, echoing the sentiment of an athlete who never took the field without purpose.

For many cricket fans, especially in India, Test cricket won't feel quite the same without Kohli walking out at No. 4, the crowd roaring in anticipation. Yet, as he steps away, he leaves behind a legacy of grit, glory, and unmatched dedication to the purest form of the game.