Virat Kohli informs BCCI he wants to retire from Tests

Virat Kohli has informed the BCCI of his plan to retire from Test cricket, closing a 14-year career as India’s fourth-highest run scorer.

According to Indian media, Virat Kohli plans to retire before India’s five-match series in England starting June 20. The 36-year-old has informed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) of his decision, according to Indian media.

Kohli’s Test career began in 2011 and spanned 123 matches, during which he scored 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85.

He hit 29 centuries and 30 half-centuries, trailing only Sachin Tendulkar (15,921), Rahul Dravid (13,265), and Sunil Gavaskar (10,122) in India’s all-time Test run charts.

He captained India in 68 matches, taking them to the top of the ICC Test rankings and into the 2021 World Test Championship final. His strike rate of 54.04 is higher than those of Tendulkar, Dravid, and Gavaskar.

Although Kohli has not confirmed the decision publicly, talks with BCCI officials have been ongoing for a month.

Reports suggest selectors are still considering including him in the England squad for his experience, especially after Rohit Sharma’s recent retirement from the format.

Kohli’s recent form, however, has dipped. Since his last century in Perth in November 2024, he has averaged 32.56.

India’s England tour begins at Headingley on June 20, with Tests also scheduled at Edgbaston, Lord’s, Old Trafford, and The Oval.

An official update on Kohli’s status is expected before the team departs.