The curtains have finally fallen on Virat Kohli’s illustrious Test career, as the Indian cricket legend announced his retirement from the longest format on May 12, ahead of the upcoming England series. With this move, Kohli brings to an end a 14-year chapter in whites, leaving behind a legacy built on grit, passion, and unmatched consistency. This England tour, marking the beginning of the ICC World Test Championship 2025–27 cycle, will be India’s first without Kohli in the Test arena — a transition that feels both surreal and significant.
While fans across the globe continue to grapple with the shock, reports have emerged suggesting that Kohli’s decision wasn’t just about age or form. As per Cricbuzz, the former captain was reportedly told that leadership responsibilities would now shift to a younger face.
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It’s believed Kohli was dissatisfied with the current team management atmosphere, feeling it lacked the autonomy and backing he once enjoyed under past regimes. In a bid to reflect and weigh his future, Kohli is said to have reached out to key figures like former head coach Ravi Shastri and ICC Chairman Jay Shah (formerly BCCI secretary).
However, the nature of those conversations remains undisclosed. Notably, he also spoke twice with chief selector Ajit Agarkar, but those discussions seemingly had no bearing on his ultimate choice to step away.
As India prepares for life after Kohli, the captaincy question looms large. Names like Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant are being floated as possible successors, while seasoned campaigners like Jasprit Bumrah and KL Rahul remain in the mix.
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The first Test begins on June 20 at Headingley, Leeds — a stern test for a relatively young Indian side, especially after their gritty performances in the 2024–25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy. One thing is certain: Virat’s absence will be felt not just in the runs column, but in the heartbeat of India’s Test team.
