Debut and Cap Number 269
Kohli made his Test debut on June 20, 2011, against the West Indies, receiving Test cap number 269. This number signifies his position as the 269th player to represent India in Test cricket .
Career Statistics
- Matches: 123
- Runs: 9,230
- Batting Average: 46.85
- Centuries: 30
- Half-centuries: 31
- Highest Score: 254*
- Catches: 121
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Kohli ranks fourth on India’s all-time Test run-scorers list, trailing only Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, and Sunil Gavaskar .The Guardian+1Wikipedia+1
Notable Achievements
- Captaincy: Led India in 68 Tests, securing 40 victories and elevating the team to the No. 1 Test ranking.
- Overseas Success: Scored seven Test centuries in Australia, the most by an Indian in that country.
- Memorable Series: Amassed 593 runs during the 2018 England series, showcasing his prowess in challenging conditions.The Guardian
The Decision to Retire
Kohli’s decision to retire came ahead of India’s five-match Test series against England, starting June 20, 2025. In his announcement, he reflected on the personal growth and invaluable lessons the format offered, stating, “I’ve given everything I had” .
The Economic Times
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His wife, Anushka Sharma, shared a heartfelt message, revealing the emotional toll and sacrifices behind his professional success, highlighting “the tears you never showed” .
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Impact and Reactions
Kohli’s retirement prompted an outpouring of emotional reactions from fans worldwide, with hashtags like #Endofanera trending on social media . Tributes from cricket legends, including Sachin Tendulkar and coach Ravi Shastri, underscored Kohli’s legacy as a transformative figure in cricket .IndiatimesThe Guardian
Legacy and Comparisons
Often compared to Sachin Tendulkar, Kohli carved his own niche with an aggressive style and unmatched consistency. While Tendulkar amassed 15,921 Test runs, Kohli’s 9,230 runs came with a higher frequency of impactful innings, especially in challenging overseas conditions .
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The Road Ahead
Post-retirement, Kohli plans to focus on family life with Anushka Sharma and their children, expressing a desire for “a lot of travelling” . He continues to play in ODIs and the IPL, representing Royal Challengers Bengaluru.The Times of India+1The Guardian+1
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Stay Connected
- Instagram: @virat.kohli
- Twitter: @imVkohli
Virat Kohli’s retirement from Test cricket marks the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy of passion, discipline, and excellence that will inspire generations to come.
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