Virat Kohli Wants To Retire From Test Cricket: Here Are 10 Possible Reasons - In Pics

Kohli endured a dismal 2024–25 Test series in Australia, scoring just 190 runs in five Tests. His technical flaws against swing bowling reignited retirement talks across cricket forums.

After debuting in 2011, Kohli has played 123 Tests, shouldering the burden of captaincy, expectations, and relentless media glare—leading to signs of emotional exhaustion and mental fatigue.

Eight out of his ten dismissals in Australia came via edges to the slip cordon. Repeated technical errors hinted at waning reflexes and growing vulnerability in seam-friendly conditions.

Sources close to the BCCI claim Kohli has “made up his mind” to step away from the format and communicated his intention clearly, despite selectors requesting him to reconsider.

Kohli had already hinted that the 2025 Australia tour might be his last overseas red-ball series. Facing England in tough swing conditions doesn’t appear to excite the RCB star anymore.

With Kohli now 36, longevity in all formats is no longer practical. Like Rohit, he may be focusing on preserving form for the 2027 ODI World Cup, where he sees greater potential.

With Rohit gone, Kohli could have been a short-term Test captain. But reports suggest he’s uninterested in such temporary roles and prefers to exit on his own terms.

Kohli stepped away from T20Is after lifting the 2024 World Cup. His Test exit now appears to be part of a broader plan to transition out of international formats gracefully.

With rising stars like Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal taking center stage, Kohli might feel it’s the right time to step aside and let the next generation lead India’s red-ball future.

In a rare podcast appearance, Kohli opened up about loneliness at the top, yearning for privacy and simpler times. The emotional toll of superstardom might be accelerating his decision.