May 10, 2025: In what could be a monumental turning point for Indian cricket, Virat Kohli is reportedly contemplating retirement from Test cricket. The 36-year-old former captain, who has been a pillar of India’s red-ball dominance for over a decade, recently conveyed his intentions to the BCCI, according to insider reports.
Kohli, who debuted in Tests in 2011, has amassed over 9,000 runs and 30 centuries in the format. Beyond the stats, his aggressive leadership and relentless drive transformed India into a world-beating Test side, with landmark victories in Australia and sustained dominance at home. His departure, if confirmed, would mark the end of an era.
The news comes just days after India’s current captain, Rohit Sharma, also announced his retirement from Test cricket, signaling a potential leadership and experience vacuum in the side ahead of a new WTC cycle.
While Kohli has remained silent publicly, the BCCI is actively trying to persuade him to delay his decision, especially with major tours to England and Australia looming. “He’s still incredibly fit and hungry,” a BCCI official said anonymously. “His presence in the dressing room lifts the entire team.”
The first Test of India’s five-match series against England begins June 20 in Leeds. If Kohli does walk away, India’s red-ball batting will be handed over to a new generation much sooner than expected — and with it, a legacy that may be hard to match.
Fans and cricket legends across the country have taken to social media, urging the talismanic batter to give the longest format one last ride. For now, the cricketing world watches and waits.