Virat Kohli, one of India’s most iconic cricketers, has officially retired from Test cricket, ending an era of passion, leadership, and remarkable achievements. Known for his aggression, consistency, and match-winning performances, Kohli redefined Indian cricket, especially in the longest format of the game.
In this blog, we cover:
- His Test career journey
- Captaincy milestones
- Most memorable innings
- Records & stats
- What’s next after retirement
Virat Kohli’s Test Career Overview
| Stat | Details |
|---|---|
| Debut | June 20, 2011 vs West Indies |
| Last Match | 03-01-2025, Sydney Cricket Ground |
| Matches Played | 123 |
| Innings | 210 |
| Runs Scored | 9,230 |
| Batting Average | 46.85 |
| 100s / 50s | 30/ 31 |
| Highest Score | 254* vs South Africa (2019) |
| Double Centuries | 7 (Most by an Indian captain) |
| Catches | 109 |
Captaincy Legacy
Virat Kohli is India’s most successful Test captain.
| Record as Captain | Stats |
|---|---|
| Matches as Captain | 68 |
| Wins | 40 |
| Losses | 17 |
| Draws | 11 |
| Win % | 58.82 |
Notable Achievements:
- Led India to first-ever Test series win in Australia (2018-19).
- Maintained India’s unbeaten home record for 8 years.
- Took India to World Test Championship 2021 final.
Kohli’s Batting Brilliance in Tests
Virat Kohli is the only Indian to score four consecutive centuries in four Test innings overseas. His hallmark innings include:
Top Memorable Test Innings:
- 141 vs Australia (Adelaide, 2014) – One of the finest 4th-innings tons.
- 200 vs West Indies (2016) – His first double century.
- 149 vs England (2018) – Silenced critics on swinging English pitches.
- 254 vs South Africa (2019)* – Highest individual score in Tests.
Test Records Held by Virat Kohli
- ✅ Most double centuries (7) by an Indian in Tests
- ✅ Fastest to 25 Test centuries among Indian players
- ✅ Most Test wins as Indian captain (40)
- ✅ First Indian captain to win Tests in South Africa, England, Australia
Why Did Virat Kohli Retire from Test Cricket?
While Kohli hasn’t officially shared a detailed reason, several factors might have influenced his decision:
- Age & fitness priorities
- Changing role in the team (focus on white-ball cricket)
- Emerging new leadership (like gill and others)
- Personal goals and family time
Life Beyond Test Cricket
Kohli continues to be a major figure in ODIs and is expected to lead India in crucial white-ball tournaments. He’s also a massive brand icon, philanthropist, and role model for young cricketers.
Final Words: The End of an Era
Virat Kohli’s Test career wasn’t just about runs or stats—it was about intent, dominance, and national pride. His leadership, fitness culture, and aggressive mindset transformed Team India into a world-class Test unit.
“Kohli’s retirement marks the end of a golden era in Indian Test cricket, but his legacy will inspire generations.”
