Virat Kohli has announced his retirement from Test cricket ahead of India’s upcoming five-Test tour of England, beginning 20 June. The 36-year-old, who debuted in 2011 against the West Indies, bows out with 123 Test matches, 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85, and 30 centuries to his name.

His decision comes just days after Rohit Sharma also stepped down from Test cricket, marking the end of an era for Indian cricket.

In an emotional social media post, Kohli reflected on the deeply personal journey that Test cricket had been: “It’s tested me, shaped me, and taught me lessons I’ll carry for life.” He added, “I’ve given it everything I had, and it’s given me back so much more.”

Kohli captained India in 68 Tests, winning 40 — the most by any Indian captain. He retires as the fourth-highest Indian run-scorer in Tests, behind Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid and Sunil Gavaskar. He also holds the record for most Test centuries by an India captain (20).

Despite his legendary status, Kohli’s recent form in Tests has dipped, with only three centuries in his last 39 matches since 2020, averaging just 30.72 in that period. His most recent century — 100* against Australia in November — ended a 16-month drought.

Kohli had already retired from T20Is after India’s 2024 World Cup win, but he is expected to continue in ODIs.