In a candid and humorous reveal, Virat Kohli has opened up for the first time about his Test retirement since announcing it in May 2025. Speaking at a charity event in London alongside former teammates, the 36-year-old cricketing icon reflected on his decision with a mix of emotion and trademark wit.
A Humble Admission with a Smile
When asked about stepping away from the red-ball format, Kohli said, “I just coloured my beard two days ago. You know it’s time when you are colouring your beard every four days.”
This light-hearted remark broke the emotional tension in the room, but also signaled a deeper truth — an athlete recognizing the right moment to let go with grace. It was the first time Kohli publicly addressed his Test retirement since his surprise Instagram post on May 12, which had caught fans and fellow players off guard.
Career Reflections and Emotional Bonds
During the same event, Kohli reminisced about his early days in the Indian dressing room. He credited senior players like Yuvraj Singh, Harbhajan Singh, and Zaheer Khan for mentoring him when he was still a newcomer.
“When I started playing for India, Yuvi pa, Bhajju pa and Zak made me feel comfortable. They brought me into the team culture,” Kohli shared.
He also spoke with deep admiration about Yuvraj Singh’s battle with cancer and return to cricket, describing their friendship as one of the most cherished parts of his career. Kohli further acknowledged the immense support he received from former head coach Ravi Shastri, recalling how Shastri shielded the team during tough phases: “He always took the bullets for us in press conferences.”
Why Now? The Subtle Art of Timing
Kohli’s retirement at 36 might have surprised many, especially considering his continued fitness and competitive spirit. However, his decision follows that of Rohit Sharma, who also recently exited the Test format.
With the emergence of new leaders like Shubman Gill—who recently scored a double century against England—the Indian team is entering a new era. Kohli’s retirement thus seems well-timed, marking the end of one chapter and the beginning of another for Indian cricket.
Reactions from Fans and the Cricket Community
Fans reacted emotionally to his statement, particularly his beard comment. Many expressed disappointment that a player of Kohli’s stature didn’t receive a grand farewell match. Some believed he deserved a send-off worthy of his contributions to Indian Test cricket, while others accepted the timing as inevitable.
Online forums and social media saw an outpouring of tributes, nostalgia, and debates about whether the BCCI could have handled his retirement announcement better.
Kohli’s Glorious Test Legacy
- Matches: 123 Tests
- Runs: 9,230
- Centuries: 30 (including 7 double hundreds)
- Average: 46.85
- Captaincy: 68 Tests (40 wins — most by an Indian Test captain)
Kohli finishes his Test career as India’s fourth-highest run-scorer and one of the most successful captains in the history of the format.
What’s Next for King Kohli?
Though he has stepped away from Tests, Kohli is expected to continue playing white-ball cricket and remain active in the IPL, where he captains Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Off the field, his focus may turn more toward mentoring, philanthropy, and perhaps exploring new roles in the game he has loved and served for over 15 years.
Final Word: A Champion’s Graceful Exit
Kohli’s Test retirement was not marked by a stadium send-off or a final match, but by a quiet, thoughtful gesture and a joke about grey hair. That, in itself, reflects his evolution—not just as a cricketer, but as a person who understands legacy, transition, and humility.
As Indian cricket evolves, the Kohli era may be ending in whites, but his legacy will continue to inspire for generations to come.
Photo Credit: India Today
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