The intention to retire from the game just declared by this epoch-defining genius of cricket, Virat Kohli. With this decision, Indian cricket enters a new phase. Kohli made his Test career debut in 2011. During this last decade, he has played a key role in leading the team’s success on the field. His decision could not have been easy to make, after the underwhelming homecoming series against New Zealand in 2024. Throughout that series, he was completely unable to be a difference-maker.
Kohli’s transformation in the Test arena has been nothing short of extraordinary. At first, he struggled, not making his maiden Test century until his eighth Test match. He quickly established himself as a formidable player, amassing 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85 across 123 Tests. His leadership was nothing short of extraordinary. As captain from 2014-2022, he led the Indian team in 68 matches, winning 40 and losing 19.
This match was particularly special for Kohli, as he became the first Indian Test captain to win a series in Australia. This victory was notched during the 2018-19 short series. This win proved his skill to perform under duress and established his place in the pantheon of cricketing greats. His reign continued in South Africa, where he now has the highest average of any Indian batter.
Over the course of 2016-19, Kohli’s batting reached unprecedented levels. He made 16 of his 30 Test centuries during this remarkable stretch. This prolific run not only showcased his skill but exemplified his ability to perform consistently at the highest level.
Kohli has equalled Bradman’s brilliance in Test cricket and now, hands down, the best batter in shorter formats. He is devastating in One Day Internationals (ODIs) and T20s. He was at the helm when India won the 2008 Under-19 World Cup. He announced his retirement from the T20 format in 2024 after claiming yet another World Cup championship.
Kohli has retired from Tests, but will continue playing ODIs. This is to make sure that he continues to be an impactful presence in the cricketing world! Even his most recent series against New Zealand was not particularly remarkable. He proved age is just a number as he blasted a brilliant century against the Aussies on day three of the first Test of 2024.
As he reflects on his decision, Kohli stated, “As I step away from this format, it’s not easy – but it feels right.”
Leave a Reply