Virat Kohli Retirement Rumors: Could He Step Away from Test Cricket?

The Speculation Begins: Is Virat Kohli Retirement on the Horizon?

On May 10, 2025, a report from ESPNcricinfo sent shockwaves through the cricketing world: Virat Kohli has reportedly told the BCCI he’s considering stepping away from Test cricket. Let’s be clear—this isn’t an official announcement, and the BCCI is reportedly trying to convince him to stay. But the mere idea of a Virat Kohli retirement from Tests has sparked intense discussions among fans, especially with India’s five-match Test series against England looming in June 2025. So, what’s behind this speculation, and could this really be the end of Kohli’s Test career?

Kohli, who has scored 9,230 runs in 123 Test matches at an average of 46.85, is one of India’s greatest-ever Test batsmen. However, his recent form in the 2024-25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia wasn’t up to his usual standards—he managed 238 runs across five Tests at an average of 23.75. While India secured the series, highlighted by a 295-run win in Perth, Kohli’s struggles might have led him to reflect on his future in the format. Add to that the recent Test retirement of his teammate and captain, Rohit Sharma, and it’s no surprise that the rumor mill is in overdrive.

Why the Virat Kohli Retirement Talk Feels Real—But Not Certain

At 36, Kohli is still one of the fittest athletes in cricket, and many believed he could play Test cricket for another few years. He’s already stepped away from T20 Internationals after India’s 2024 T20 World Cup triumph, a decision that made sense as he shifted his focus to Tests and ODIs. But walking away from Test cricket now, when he’s just 770 runs shy of the 10,000-run milestone, feels unexpected. So why are these Virat Kohli retirement rumors gaining traction?

One factor could be the toll of a demanding international schedule. Test cricket, with its physical and mental grind, isn’t easy to sustain over a long career. Kohli has spoken in the past about wanting to travel more and explore life beyond cricket, as he mentioned at the RCB Innovation Lab Indian Sports Summit: “I might not have another Australia tour in me, so I am at peace with whatever happened in the past.” Could this be a sign he’s ready to step back? Or is this just a moment of doubt after a tough Border-Gavaskar Trophy?

The BCCI’s reaction also adds weight to the rumors—they wouldn’t be trying to persuade him to stay if there wasn’t some truth to his intentions. But until Kohli makes an official statement, this remains speculation. As one fan on X put it, “Please reconsider,” capturing the hope that Kohli might decide to stick around a bit longer.

Fans Weigh In: Mixed Emotions Over Virat Kohli Retirement Rumors

Kohli has always been a fan favorite, not just for his runs but for his passion and intensity on the field. From his gritty 149 at Edgbaston in 2018 to his masterful 123 in Perth later that year, he’s given Indian cricket fans moments to treasure. The thought of him stepping away from Tests—whether now or in the near future—has left many feeling uneasy, with one fan admitting, “BC ab to meri bhi phat rahi hai” (I’m scared now too).

What Happens to India If Virat Kohli Retirement Becomes Reality?

If the Virat Kohli retirement rumors turn out to be true, the impact on Indian Test cricket would be significant. With Rohit Sharma already retired from the format, India would lose two of its most experienced batters ahead of the England tour. Young players like Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal have shown promise, but replacing Kohli’s presence—both as a batsman and a leader—won’t be easy. As one fan noted on X, “We beg you Kohli

The BCCI is already planning for the future, with coach Gautam Gambhir reportedly set to travel with the India A team to England for early preparations. But a Test team without Kohli feels incomplete, especially in overseas conditions where he’s often been India’s best performer. The Border-Gavaskar Trophy win in Australia showed that India can succeed as a unit, but Kohli’s knack for delivering in clutch moments—like his centuries in tough conditions—has been a cornerstone of their success.

Kohli’s Test Legacy: A Career to Celebrate, Whatever Happens

Whether or not the Virat Kohli retirement rumors come to fruition, one thing is certain: his Test career is already the stuff of legend. With 29 centuries, 32 fifties, and a reputation as a fierce competitor, Kohli has left an indelible mark on the format. He’s led India to historic Test series wins in Australia, taken them to the top of the Test rankings as captain, and inspired countless young cricketers to chase their dreams.

For now, fans can only wait for clarity. Will Kohli address these rumors and commit to another chapter in Test cricket? Or is he truly ready to move on? As we await his decision, it’s a good time to reflect on the incredible journey he’s had—and hope there’s more to come. What do you think about the Virat Kohli retirement buzz? Let me know in the comments!