Virat Kohli retires, legendary India batter bows out before England series

NEW DELHI:Virat Kohli, one of India's most celebrated cricketers, has announced his retirement from

Test cricket

ahead of the upcoming England series. Kohli’s decision marks the end of an era in Indian cricket.Known for his intensity, unmatched fitness, and relentless drive, Kohli leaves behind a remarkable legacy in the longest format of the game. The 36-year-old played 123 Tests, amassing 9,230 runs at an average of 48.7, including 30 centuries and 31 fifties.Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!His final Test appearance came during the 2024–25

Border-Gavaskar Trophy

in Australia, a series that proved to be a difficult farewell tour.

Despite a century in the opening Test in Perth, Kohli managed just 190 runs across five matches, with 85 runs coming in the last four Tests.

His struggles against the moving ball were evident, as eight of his ten dismissals came via edges to the slip cordon.

Kohli’s retirement comes at a time when questions were being raised about his place in the Test side. While his class and commitment were never in doubt, recent form highlighted a sharp decline in returns, particularly on challenging overseas pitches.Making his Test debut in 2011 against the West Indies, Kohli rapidly evolved into the backbone of India’s batting line-up.

As captain, he brought aggression and fitness to the forefront, leading India to their first-ever Test series win in Australia in 2018–19 and taking the team to the top of the ICC Test rankings. Under his leadership, India played 68 Tests, winning 40, a record unmatched by any other Indian captain.Kohli is expected to continue playing ODIs, but his absence in whites will leave a significant void. As fans and former players react to his decision, tributes are pouring in for a player who redefined modern Test batting in India.