'End of an era, still so much left': After Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli retires from Test cricket; in tears, netizens say goodbye to iconic duo

Virat Kohli Retirement News: Virat Kohli has drawn the curtains on a glorious chapter in Indian cricket. Just days after Rohit Sharma stepped away from red-ball cricket, Kohli announced his retirement from Test cricket on Monday, sending shockwaves through the cricketing world.

Kohli, who made his Test debut in 2011, took to Instagram to pen an emotional farewell, saying, “It’s been 14 years since I first wore the baggy blue in Test cricket. Honestly, I never imagined the journey this format would take me on... I’m walking away with a heart full of gratitude.” The post ended with a simple yet powerful sign-off: “#269, signing off.”

Kohli's decision was reportedly communicated to the BCCI ahead of India’s upcoming five-match Test series against England. His exit from the longest format comes as a massive blow to the team, which now stands without the experienced pillars of Kohli and Rohit in the red-ball arena.

Over 123 matches, Kohli amassed 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85, including 30 centuries and 51 fifties. He is India's most successful Test captain in terms of centuries (20), and holds the record for the most double hundreds (7) by an Indian. Only Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, and Sunil Gavaskar have scored more Test tons than him.

His aggressive style, passion for fitness, and leadership redefined India’s approach to Test cricket — at home and overseas.

'Whites off, crown intact': Tributes pour in

The announcement sparked an avalanche of reactions — from fans, fellow cricketers, and legends of the game.

“Whites off, crown intact,” wrote the ICC on X, perfectly capturing the sentiment of millions. Kohli’s long-time friend and South African great AB de Villiers posted, “Congrats to my biscotti @imVkohli on an epic Test career! Your determination & skill have always inspired me. True legend!"

Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh was among those stunned by the announcement, simply asking, “Why retired, @imVkohli?” while former pacer Irfan Pathan praised his legacy: “As captain, you didn’t just win matches — you changed mindsets.”

Harsha Bhogle said Kohli deserved to walk away in front of a packed stadium, and Kevin Pietersen posted a surprised emoji in reaction.

Former teammates like Suresh Raina also paid heartfelt tributes. “Sad to see you step away, but your legacy will live on. Your passion and leadership inspired millions.”

Netizens in disbelief: 'Test cricket won't be the same again'

Fans flooded X with emotional reactions. Many called Kohli the 'GOAT' of Test cricket and questioned the timing of the decision. One wrote, “Still too much left in you, Kohli sir. Why early retire?”

Another summed up what many are feeling: “Test cricket will never be the same again! The RO-KO era ends.”

Netizens also recalled the changing of generations. “First Sachin, Dravid, Sehwag… now Rohit, Virat, Ashwin. Feels like the end of an era.”

The BCCI called it exactly that — “the end of an era.”

As Kohli steps away from the whites, his numbers will be remembered. But more than stats, it’s the fire, the fight, and the pride he brought to Test cricket that fans will carry in their hearts.

One fan perhaps said it best: “Thank you, King. It’s hard to say goodbye.”