In what could mark the end of an era in Indian cricket, Virat Kohli has reportedly informed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) of his intent to retire from Test cricket. The Indian Express reports that Kohli, after prolonged reflection—especially following his modest performances in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy—has expressed a desire to move on from red-ball cricket.
This comes mere days after Indian Test captain Rohit Sharma officially announced his retirement from the format via social media, signalling a massive leadership and experience vacuum in India’s red-ball setup.
Kohli’s Reported Decision and BCCI’s Response
Kohli’s desire to retire appears to be firm, with no indications that he plans to reverse the decision. However, the BCCI is understood to be actively engaging with the batting stalwart, urging him to reconsider, especially with a crucial five-Test away series against England looming in June 2025.
Kohli, who has played 123 Tests and scored 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85, has been a cornerstone of India’s modern Test success. His tenure as captain revolutionised India’s pace battery and overseas performance, while his batting formed the backbone of many historic victories.
Decline in Red-Ball Form
Since 2020, Kohli’s form in Tests has noticeably waned. In the last five years, he has scored just 1,990 runs in 37 Tests with only three centuries—far from the standards he once routinely set. His 190 runs in the recent Border-Gavaskar series, including one unbeaten century, reflect a prolonged struggle to maintain consistency.
Kohli has also been open about the mental toll of his dip in form. Speaking at an RCB event in March 2025, he said:
“Once you start taking on the energy and the disappointment from the outside… you start getting more desperate. That’s something I’ve surely experienced in Australia as well.”
A Transitional Moment for Indian Cricket
Kohli’s decision—should it become official—paired with Rohit Sharma’s retirement, signals the end of one of Indian cricket’s most dominant eras. It places added responsibility on the younger generation, with the likes of Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Ruturaj Gaikwad expected to take the baton.
India’s red-ball setup is now at a critical juncture, facing a generational shift just before a demanding England tour and a new World Test Championship cycle.
