Kohli’s decision to retire from Tests came as a surprise to many, especially with the cricketing world expecting him to continue as a pillar for India in the format. Despite having planned to score “three or four hundreds” in the upcoming England series, as revealed by his Ranji coach and former selector Sarandeep Singh, Kohli chose to step away just before the squad for the England tour was to be picked. His recent lean patch-averaging just 32.56 in the last two years-may have played a role in his decision.
Kohli’s heartfelt retirement note reflected his deep connection with Test cricket:
“It has challenged me, molded me, and imparted lessons I will cherish for a lifetime. There’s something profoundly personal about donning the white attire. The subtle grind, the lengthy days, and the fleeting moments that often go unnoticed yet remain with you eternally.”
After stepping away from the red-ball game, Kohli has hinted at a new phase focused on family, travel, and personal growth. According to recent reports, Kohli and his wife, actor Anushka Sharma, plan to spend quality time together, with “a lot of travel” on the horizon. The couple was seen leaving Mumbai soon after the retirement announcement, signaling the start of this new chapter.
Kohli has expressed a desire to explore new destinations with Anushka, prioritizing experiences and memories with his loved ones over the relentless grind of international cricket. The cricket star has alluded to pursuing interests outside the sport, possibly involving business ventures, philanthropy, or mentoring young athletes. While Kohli has retired from Tests and T20Is, he is expected to continue playing in ODIs, with the 2027 World Cup likely in his sights. He may also take on roles as a mentor or ambassador for the sport in the future.
Kohli retires as India’s most successful Test captain, with 40 wins in 68 matches, and as the fourth-highest run-scorer for the country in Tests (9,230 runs, 30 centuries). His leadership and batting prowess transformed India’s approach to Test cricket, inspiring a new generation of cricketers.
The immediate future involves travel, family, and perhaps new personal projects. He remains a global sports icon and is likely to stay engaged with cricket in some capacity. Kohli’s retirement, following Rohit Sharma’s, signals a generational shift. The team will need to rebuild, especially in the batting order, as it prepares for the next cycle of international cricket.
