Virat Kohli retired from Test cricket on May 12, 2025, ending his 14-year journey that began in 2011. The 36-year-old shared his decision to retire from Tests via Instagram, calling it a life-changing experience.
He scored 9230 runs in 123 Test matches, making him India’s fourth-highest Test run scorer.
In this article, we share his iconic records and key moments, along with his complete information. So, let’s dive into the article.
Virat Kohli Retired from Test Cricket – Know His Early Career and Debut
Virat Kohli made his Test debut on June 20, 2011, against the West Indies in Kingston, scoring four runs off 15 balls. After leading India to the 2008 Under-19 World Cup title, he excelled in domestic cricket, scoring 90 runs for Delhi despite his father’s passing during that period.
His first Test century came in 2012 against Australia in Adelaide, where he scored 116 runs, showcasing his immense talent.
Career Statistics
Virat Kohli retired from Test cricket with outstanding numbers. He scored 9230 runs at an average of 46.85, with over 30 centuries. He holds an Indian record for seven double centuries.
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As captain, he led India in 68 Test matches, scoring 5864 runs. From 2016 to 2019, he was unstoppable, averaging 66.59. We’ve provided a quick overview of his performance in the table below.
| Stats | Value |
| Matches Played | 123 |
| Runs Scored | 9,230 |
| Batting Average | 46.85 |
| Centuries | 30 |
| Double Centuries | 7 |
| Captaincy Runs | 5,864 |
Iconic Performances
Virat Kohli’s Test career is filled with unforgettable knocks. His twin centuries in Adelaide in 2014 totaled 141 and 115 runs as a new captain. His 235 runs in 2016 dismantled England.
In 2018, he scored 149 runs in England, silencing critics questioning his form. His best score, 254 not out, came in Pune in 2019 against South Africa, showcasing his mastery.
| Innings | Score | Opponent | Year | Venue |
| Adelaide Heroics | 115, 141 | Australia | 2014 | Adelaide |
| Mumbai Masterpiece | 235 | England | 2016 | Mumbai |
| Birmingham Comeback | 149 | England | 2018 | Birmingham |
| Pune Perfection | 254* | South Africa | 2019 | Pune |
Captaincy Achievements
Virat Kohli led India in 68 Test matches, securing 40 victories, the most for any Indian captain. He achieved India’s first Test series win in Australia in 2018-19, elevating India to the number-one Test ranking. His fitness, aggressive approach, and bold leadership built a formidable team, establishing him as a game-changer.
Final Tests and Post-Retirement Focus
Virat Kohli’s last Test was in Sydney in January 2025, where he scored 17 runs. In the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, he scored 190 runs across five matches.
After 2020, his average fell to 32.56, reflecting a gradual decline in form. Now retired, he will focus on ODI and has shown strong form in IPL 2025, scoring 505 runs in 11 matches. We will remember Kohli for his legacy and contributions to Indian Test cricket, cherished by all.
Lasting Legacy
Virat Kohli retired from Test cricket, leaving a legacy with over 30 centuries. His journey, from his 2011 debut to historic milestones, has been remarkable and inspires fans. His best score of 254 not out ensures that Kohli’s Test story will live on, celebrated by cricket enthusiasts worldwide.
