Virat Kohli retirement news has generated a global outpouring of emotions and nostalgia among cricket fans worldwide. The journey of the greatest cricketer to have ever played the sport from a hot-blooded Delhi lad to the skipper of the Indian National Cricket side has been a story that reads like a fairytale. As Kohli hangs up his shoes on the global circuit, it’s not the retirement of a player but the retirement of an era in Indian cricket.
Which Formats Has Virat Kohli Retired From?
Contrary to what some fans believe, Virat Kohli has not retired from all formats of international cricket.
T20I Retirement:
He retired from T20 Internationals on June 29, 2024, having guided India to a historical victory in the ICC T20 World Cup final against South Africa. His score in the final was 76 and was awarded Player of the Match. In the post-game interview, he confirmed: “This was my last T20 game playing for India.”
Test Retirement:
On May 12th, 2025, Kohli announced his official retirement from Test cricket. His Test career is arguably the most iconic in Indian cricket history with more than 9,300 runs, 30 centuries, and 40 captaincy wins.
Still Playing ODIs:
As of now, Kohli continues to play One Day Internationals (ODIs) and remains a core member of the Indian team in this format.
Virat Kohli’s Cricket Journey: From Debut to Dominance
Virat Kohli played his international match in August 2008 against Sri Lanka in an ODI. Since then, he went on to climb the ranks with his aggressive play, unparalleled consistency, and aggressive attitude. He was already a regular member of the Indian team by 2011.
Under his captaincy, India reached new heights, including:
- Becoming the No. 1 Test team in the world.
- Historic Test series win in Australia (2018-19).
- Consistent top performances in ICC tournaments.
- Transforming the fitness culture of the Indian team.
Records That Define His Greatness
As we reflect on Virat Kohli retirement, here are some records that showcase his greatness:
- Most centuries in ODIs after Sachin Tendulkar
- Fastest to 8,000, 9,000, 10,000, and 11,000 ODI runs
- Scored over 25,000 international runs
- Most double centuries by an Indian in Tests (as captain)
- Over 100 international fifties and 70+ centuries
These records aren’t just statistics—they reflect his unmatched hunger, mental strength, and consistency.
Emotional Farewell: A Moment That Shook Cricket Fans
When the Virat Kohli retirement news broke, social media was filled with tributes. Cricketing greats and fans alike thanked him and praised him. The tear-jerking speech after the T20 World Cup final and his Test retirement announcement were both heart-wrenching moments for cricket fans.
Greats such as Sachin Tendulkar, MS Dhoni, and AB de Villiers referred to him as one of the toughest competitors of contemporary cricket.
What’s Next for Virat Kohli?
Though he’s retired from T20Is and Tests, Kohli’s cricketing journey isn’t over. In fact, fans are eager to see him:
- Continue playing in the Indian Premier League (IPL)
- Dominate ODIs, especially in upcoming ICC tournaments
- Possibly take up coaching or mentoring roles
- Launch cricket academies or fitness programs
His influence on Indian cricket will continue well beyond the pitch.
The Legacy He Leaves Behind
Kohli’s impact goes beyond runs and trophies. He changed the mindset of Indian cricket—introducing fitness benchmarks, aggressive leadership, and a fearless approach. His intensity, passion, and commitment inspired millions to dream big.
The Virat Kohli retirement from Tests and T20Is doesn’t just mark an end—it symbolizes the success of a mindset that shaped modern Indian cricket.
Conclusion
The news of Virat Kohli retirement from T20Is and Test cricket actually marks the end of an era in Indian cricket. His records, captaincy, and zeal will not be beaten for years to come.
As we say goodbye to the King in two formats, fans continue to look forward to seeing him shine in ODIs and the IPL. Thank you, Virat Kohli, for giving us moments we’ll cherish forever.
