Virat Kohli Test Retirement Reason : On May 12, 2025, Virat Kohli confirmed his retirement from Test cricket, ending a remarkable 14-year career where he scored 9,230 runs in 123 Test matches.
Nasser Hussain and other experts have shared insights into why Kohli retired early, pointing to his dip in form, the BCCI’s decisions, and personal choices.
In this article, we dive into the reasons behind Virat Kohli’s Test retirement and explore the possibilities, so let’s get started.
Nasser Hussain on Kohli’s Form and Mental Shift
Nasser Hussain, former England captain, explained that Virat Kohli Test retirement reason stems from a dip in form and a mental shift. He noted that Kohli’s hunger to score runs in Tests seems to have faded.
However, his drive is still evident in ODIs, where he’s performing strongly and likely focusing on the 2027 World Cup.
At 36, Kohli may have prioritized leaving Tests to focus on ODIs, choosing to step away from a format where his form was struggling to protect his mental health and excel where he’s thriving.
BCCI’s Role in Kohli’s Retirement
The BCCI and selectors have also influenced Virat Kohli Test Retirement Reason decision to retire from Tests. Reports suggest Kohli was told he’s no longer a guaranteed pick, with his form averaging 30.72 over the last five years since 2020.
After India’s 3-1 loss to Australia, the BCCI imposed a rule limiting cricketers’ families to 14 days together during tours longer than a month and a half, which upset Kohli, who values family support.
This restriction likely contributed to his decision to step away from Test cricket.
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Personal Choice Behind the Decision
Virat Kohli Test Retirement Reason was also a personal choice. In his Instagram post, he wrote, “It’s not easy, but right now it feels right,” signaling his readiness to move on from Tests.
After Rohit Sharma’s retirement, Kohli informed the BCCI in April 2025 of his intent to retire, and despite their requests to reconsider, he stood firm, confirming his exit from the format.
Impact on India’s Test Team
Virat Kohli Test Retirement Reason weakens India’s batting lineup for the England tour starting June 20, 2025, especially with Rohit Sharma and Ravichandran Ashwin also retiring.
Shubman Gill is likely to take up the captaincy. Kohli’s legacy of 30 centuries and 40 victories as captain will inspire youngsters like Yashasvi Jaiswal to step up and perform in this new era for Indian cricket.
