Is Virat Kohli a True Legend After His Test Retirement?
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Synopsis
Virat Kohli's retirement from Test cricket has left a profound impact on the sport. With an illustrious career spanning 123 matches and over 9,000 runs, Kohli's departure signals a transformative moment in Indian cricket. Join us as we explore heartfelt tributes from fellow cricketers and the legacy he leaves behind.
Key Takeaways
- Virat Kohli retires from Test cricket after an illustrious career.
- He scored 9,230 runs with 30 centuries.
- Tributes flooded in from around the world.
- His departure marks a significant transition in Indian cricket.
- Kohli’s legacy will inspire future generations.
New Delhi, May 12 (NationPress) The cricketing world was momentarily paused on Monday when Virat Kohli, one of the sport’s most celebrated athletes, declared his retirement from Test cricket. This marked the end of a distinguished red-ball career that featured 123 matches, 9,230 runs, 30 centuries, and 31 fifties. At 36, Kohli shared this heartfelt announcement through an emotional Instagram post, reflecting on his 14-year journey representing India in whites.
The announcement sparked a flood of tributes from across the cricketing landscape, with fellow players, competitors, legends, and fans taking to social media to honor a player who fundamentally transformed Indian Test cricket. One of the first to respond was AB de Villiers, a close friend and former teammate at RCB, who said, “Congrats to my biscotti @virat.kohli on an epic Test career! Your determination & skill have always inspired me. True legend!”
Jhulan Goswami, a stalwart of India’s bowling attack, perfectly encapsulated Kohli’s influence in whites: “There was something about @imVkohli in whites. It wasn’t just skill. It was intent. He didn’t want to survive. He wanted to dominate. To conquer. And in the process, he gave us 14 years of unforgettable memories. Best of luck for your journey ahead.”
Former Indian off-spinner Harbhajan Singh, who played alongside Kohli during the early stages of his career, remarked: “Virat, we’ve shared that era… faced the grind together, lived the long days of Test cricket with pride. Your batting in whites is special - not just in numbers, but in intent, intensity, and inspiration. Good luck going forward #ViratKohli #TestCricket @imVkohli.”
India’s head coach, Gautam Gambhir, under whose guidance Kohli made significant strides in Test cricket, expressed his sentiments succinctly, stating, “A man with lion’s passion! Will miss u cheeks,” on X.
The cricketing administration also recognized the significant gap Kohli’s retirement creates. The ICC Chairman, Jay Shah, made a rare personal statement: “Congratulations @imVkohli on a stellar Test career. Thank you for championing the purest format during the rise of T20 cricket and setting an extraordinary example in discipline, fitness, and commitment. Your speech at Lord’s said it all - you played Tests with heart, grit, and pride.”
Kohli’s retirement comes closely on the heels of Rohit Sharma and R Ashwin also announcing their departures from the red-ball format, indicating a significant transition in Indian Test cricket.
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize the monumental impact of Virat Kohli's retirement on Indian cricket. His contributions have shaped the sport, inspiring generations. This transition signifies not only the end of an era but also the potential for new talent to emerge. We stand committed to covering these evolving narratives with integrity and expertise.
NationPress
08/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What records did Virat Kohli achieve in Test cricket?
Virat Kohli scored 9,230 runs in 123 Test matches, including 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries, establishing himself as one of the greatest Test batsmen.
Why did Virat Kohli retire from Test cricket?
Kohli announced his retirement to focus on his overall cricketing journey and transition into the next phase of his career, following other key players.
What was the reaction to Kohli's retirement announcement?
There was a significant outpouring of tributes from teammates, rivals, and cricket fans worldwide, acknowledging his impact on the game.
Who were some notable figures that paid tribute to Kohli?
AB de Villiers, Jhulan Goswami, and Gautam Gambhir were among the many who honored Kohli's contributions to cricket.
What does Kohli's retirement mean for Indian cricket?
Kohli's retirement marks a significant transition for Indian Test cricket, especially following the exits of other key players like Rohit Sharma and R Ashwin.
