Mon May 12 14:44:10 UTC 2025: ## Cricket Legend Virat Kohli Retires from Test Cricket
**Mumbai, India – May 12, 2025** – Virat Kohli, one of India’s greatest ever cricketers, announced his retirement from Test cricket today, bringing an end to a glittering 14-year career. The news was met with tributes from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the International Cricket Council (ICC).
Kohli, 36, made the announcement via Instagram, reflecting on a career filled with both triumphs and challenges. He cited personal reasons for his decision, emphasizing the emotional toll of the demanding Test format while expressing immense gratitude for the experience.
In a statement, the BCCI hailed Kohli’s “unmatched legacy,” praising his significant contributions to #TeamIndia. The ICC similarly acknowledged his remarkable achievements, stating that he leaves behind an “unmatched legacy.”
Kohli’s Test career spanned 123 matches, accumulating 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85. He scored 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries, placing him fourth on India’s all-time Test run-scorers list behind Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, and Sunil Gavaskar. His highest score was a magnificent 254*.
His career was marked by periods of exceptional dominance, particularly between 2016 and 2019, where he averaged a stunning 66.79, including a record seven double-centuries as captain. While his form dipped in recent years, he continued to deliver memorable performances, including a crucial century in Perth during the recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Despite facing challenges against certain bowling styles throughout his career, Kohli consistently overcame setbacks, leading India to significant victories and leaving an indelible mark on the sport. His contributions to Indian cricket, both as a batsman and captain, will be remembered for generations to come.
First Piper 