Virat Kohli Shocks Cricket World with Sudden Test Retirement on May 12, 2025

In a move that has stunned cricket fans worldwide, Indian batting legend Virat Kohli announced his retirement from Test cricket on May 12, 2025, just weeks before India’s crucial tour of England. The unexpected decision has left the cricketing fraternity in disbelief, as Kohli was expected to play a key role in the upcoming five-match Test series.

The Announcement: Kohli’s Emotional Farewell

Kohli, 36, shared the news via an emotional Instagram post, reflecting on his 14-year Test career.

"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."

The announcement came just days before India’s squad selection for the England tour, where Kohli was anticipated to be a central figure. His sudden exit leaves a massive void in India’s middle order, especially after Rohit Sharma’s recent Test retirement.

Why Did Kohli Retire? Key Reasons Behind the Decision

1. New World Test Championship Cycle (2025-27)

• The next WTC cycle begins in June 2025, spanning two years.

• Kohli may have felt unable to commit long-term, potentially disrupting team planning.

2. Dip in Test Form Since 2020

• Kohli’s Test average dropped from 55 (2019) to below 47.

• Since 2020, he has scored only three Test centuries, averaging below 35 in this period.

• Struggled against outside-off deliveries, leading to frequent dismissals in recent series

3. Focus on 2027 ODI World Cup

• At 36, Kohli may be prioritizing the 50-over format, aiming for a final World Cup push in 2027.

4. Emotional Fatigue

• Reports suggest Kohli told teammates "I am done" during the Australia tour, hinting at mental exhaustion.

• Former selector Sarandeep Singh expressed surprise, saying Kohli had planned to play India A matches before the England tour and aimed for "three to four centuries" in the series.

Kohli’s Test Career: A Legacy of Greatness

• By the Numbers

• 123 Tests (4th most for India)

• 9,230 runs (5th highest for India)

• 30 centuries, 31 fifties (2nd most Test hundreds for India after Tendulkar)

• 7 double centuries (Most by an Indian)

• 40 wins in 68 Tests as captain (India’s most successful Test skipper)

Defining Moments

• 2018 Tour of England – Despite India’s loss, Kohli silenced critics with 593 runs.

• 2018-21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy dominance – Led India to back-to-back series wins in Australia.

• 2021 Lord’s Century – His iconic match-winning 96 against England.

What’s Next for Kohli?

• Will continue playing ODIs & T20Is, eyeing the 2027 ODI World Cup.

• Remains active in IPL for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).

• Likely to take up mentorship roles in Indian cricket.

Impact on Indian Cricket

• With Kohli & Rohit gone, India’s Test batting lacks experience.

• Youngsters like Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Sarfaraz Khan must step up.

• England tour (June 20 onwards) will be a major challenge for India’s new-look lineup.

Reactions from the Cricket World

Sarandeep Singh (Former Selector)

"I was shocked. He was training hard, even planning for India A games. There were no fitness issues. This is unexpected."

Fans & Experts

• Social media erupted with tributes, calling Kohli "India’s greatest Test captain."

• Many speculate whether external pressures or personal reasons influenced his decision.

Final Thoughts

Kohli’s retirement marks the end of an era in Indian Test cricket. His aggressive leadership, unmatched fitness standards, and clutch performances have left an indelible mark. While fans mourn his exit from Tests, his journey in white-ball cricket continues.