Virat Kohli’s unexpected retirement from Test cricket on May 12, 2025, has left a significant impact on the cricketing world. Having played 123 Tests and scored 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85, including 30 centuries, Kohli’s departure marks the end of an era for Indian cricket .
Emotional Farewell and Personal Reflections
Kohli announced his retirement through an emotional social media post, stating, “It’s not easy, but it feels right.” He expressed gratitude for the journey and the experiences that Test cricket had offered him over 14 years .
Public and Celebrity Reactions
The cricketing community and fans worldwide reacted with surprise and admiration. Tributes poured in from former teammates and cricket legends, acknowledging Kohli’s contributions to the sport. Bollywood actress Preity Zinta shared a heartfelt message, expressing that she watched IPL matches primarily for Kohli’s performances .
Criticism of BCCI’s Handling
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) faced criticism for the subdued manner in which Kohli’s retirement was handled. Fans and critics felt that a player of Kohli’s stature deserved a more ceremonious farewell .
Impact on Upcoming Series
Kohli’s retirement, along with that of Rohit Sharma, has raised concerns about the upcoming Test series against England. The absence of these key players is expected to affect ticket sales and viewership, indicating their significant influence on the team’s popularity .
Personal Time and Future Plans
Following his retirement, Kohli, along with his wife Anushka Sharma and their children, visited an ashram in Vrindavan, seeking spiritual peace and blessings. Despite stepping away from Test cricket, Kohli continues to focus on One Day Internationals (ODIs), with the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup being a major goal .
