The world of cricket stood still for a moment as Virat Kohli announced his retirement from Test cricket with immediate effect. The former Indian skipper, known for his unmatched passion and grit, shared an emotional note reflecting on his 14-year journey in whites. And as always, his biggest cheerleader, his wife Anushka Sharma, was right by his side, this time, with a heartfelt tribute that resonated far beyond the cricketing world.

Virat Kohli retires from Test cricket

Virat took to Instagram with a powerful reflection on the role Test cricket has played in shaping his identity, not just as a player, but as a person. He wrote: “It’s been 14 years since I first wore the baggy blue in Test cricket. Honestly, I never imagined the journey this format would take me on. It’s tested me, shaped me, and taught me lessons I’ll carry for life. There’s something deeply personal about playing in whites. The quiet grind, the long days, the small moments that no one sees but that stay with you forever.”

He continued, “As I step away from this format, it’s not easy – but it feels right. I’ve given it everything I had, and it’s given me back so much more than I could’ve hoped for. I’m walking away with a heart full of gratitude – for the game, for the people I shared the field with, and for every single person who made me feel seen along the way. I’ll always look back at my Test career with a smile. #269, signing off.”

 

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A post shared by Virat Kohli (@virat.kohli)

Anushka Sharma on Virat Kohli’s retirement

In a touching Instagram post, Anushka shared a candid picture with Virat and wrote, “They’ll talk about the records and the milestones – but I’ll remember the tears you never showed, the battles no one saw, and the unwavering love you gave this format of the game. I know how much all this took from you. After every Test series, you came back a little wiser, a little humbler – and watching you evolve through it all has been a privilege. Somehow, I always imagined you’d retire from International cricket in whites – But you’ve always followed your heart, and so I just want to say my love, you’ve earned every bit of this goodbye.”

 

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Honestly, if that didn’t make you tear up just a little, are you even human?

There’s a wave of nostalgia and loss but also deep admiration for what Kohli has brought to Test cricket. From fierce cover drives to aggressive leadership, his legacy is one that has inspired a generation.

In June last year, he had already said goodbye to the T20I format. But rest assured, Kohli fans, he’s not entirely done. The blue jersey of ODIs still awaits his fiery presence. One chapter may have closed, but Virat Kohli’s story is far from over.

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