By Khabar Rojana 
Virat Kohli, one of the most illustrious figures in Indian cricket, announced his retirement from Test cricket on May 12, 2025, concluding a remarkable 14-year career. Throughout his tenure, Kohli not only amassed significant personal achievements but also transformed the Indian Test team into a formidable force on the global stage
- Matches Played: 123
- Total Runs Scored: 9,230
- Batting Average: 46.85
- Centuries/Half-Centuries: 30/31
- Highest Score: 254*
- Double Centuries: 7
Kohli’s consistency and prowess with the bat positioned him as the fourth-highest run-scorer for India in Test cricket, trailing only legends like Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, and Sunil Gavaskar.
Taking over the captaincy in 2014, Kohli led India in 68 Test matches, securing 40 victories—the most by any Indian Test captain. His leadership was marked by aggressive tactics, an emphasis on fitness, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
Under Kohli’s captaincy, India achieved notable overseas victories, including their first-ever Test series win in Australia during the 2018-19 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. These wins signified India’s growing dominance in international cricket.
Kohli holds the record for the most double centuries (7) by an Indian in Test cricket. Notably, he is the only captain to have scored four double centuries in four consecutive series, showcasing his exceptional endurance and skill.
Kohli’s ability to score runs consistently is evident from his rapid milestones:
- Fastest Indian to 25 Test centuries: Achieved in 127 innings.
- Multiple centuries in a single series: Scored four centuries in the 2014/15 Border-Gavaskar series.
India remained unbeaten in home Test series under Kohli’s leadership for seven years, winning 24 out of 31 matches. This period solidified India’s reputation as a formidable team, especially on home turf.
Despite his extensive career, Kohli never played a Test match against Pakistan due to prolonged political tensions between the two nations. This absence is often viewed as a missed opportunity in his otherwise comprehensive career.
Kohli’s agility and sharp reflexes contributed to his 121 catches in Test cricket, placing him among the top Indian fielders in the format.
Throughout his career, Kohli received numerous accolades, including 10 Player-of-the-Match awards and 3 Player-of-the-Series awards in Test cricket, reflecting his significant impact on the game.
| Achievement | Record/Statistic |
|---|---|
| Total Test Matches Played | 123 |
| Total Runs Scored | 9,230 |
| Batting Average | 46.85 |
| Centuries/Half-Centuries | 30/31 |
| Highest Score | 254* |
| Double Centuries | 7 |
| Most Wins as Indian Test Captain | 40 |
| First Indian Captain to Win Test Series in Australia | Yes |
| Consecutive Double Centuries in Series | 4 |
| Total Catches | 121 |
In his retirement announcement, Kohli expressed deep gratitude for the game, stating, “I’ve given everything I had.” His heartfelt message resonated with fans and peers alike, marking the end of an era.
While stepping away from Test cricket, Kohli continues to represent India in One Day Internationals and plays for Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the Indian Premier League, maintaining his presence in the cricketing world.
Kohli’s influence extends beyond statistics; his passion, discipline, and commitment have inspired a generation of cricketers. He redefined the standards of fitness and professionalism in Indian cricket.
Following his retirement, tributes poured in from cricketing legends and fans worldwide, acknowledging Kohli’s immense contributions and celebrating his illustrious career.
As Kohli transitions into the next phase of his cricketing journey, his legacy as one of India’s greatest Test cricketers remains firmly etched in history. His achievements continue to inspire aspiring cricketers around the globe.
Raveena Kumari