Virat Kohli Breaks Silence on Test Retirement for the First Time - Makes Honest Admission

Virat Kohli breaks silence on Test retirement for the first time at a YouWeCan Foundation event in London on July 8, 2025, hosted by Yuvraj Singh. The 36-year-old, who retired from Test cricket in May 2025 after 123 matches and 9,230 runs, spoke candidly about his decision. 

When host Gaurav Kapoor mentioned fans missing him, Kohli lightheartedly said, “I just colored my beard two days ago. 

You know it’s time when you’re coloring your beard every four days.” His honest admission, reflecting on age and time, stunned attendees, including Ravi Shastri and Gautam Gambhir.

Kohli’s Emotional Revelation

Virat Kohli breaks silence on Test retirement during a YouWeCan Foundation event in London on July 8, 2025. Speaking to Gaurav Kapoor, Kohli shared, “I just colored my beard two days ago. You know it’s time when you’re coloring your beard every four days.” 

The light-hearted yet honest remark about aging hinted at why he stepped away from Tests after a 14-year career, leaving fans emotional and Ravi Shastri surprised.

Why He Retired from Tests

Virat Kohli breaks silence on Test retirement, pointing to personal reasons. After retiring from T20Is post the 2024 World Cup, Kohli’s Test form dipped, averaging 32.56 since 2023, with only one century in Perth in 2024.

Reports suggest the BCCI felt he didn’t fit the Test team’s future, despite his wish to continue. His focus now is ODIs, aiming for the 2027 World Cup, showing he prioritized his energy for one format.

A Glorious Test Legacy

Virat Kohli breaks silence on Test retirement, reflecting on a stellar career. He scored 9,230 runs in 123 Tests, with 30 centuries, and led India to 40 wins in 68 matches as captain, a national record. 

His 2018 England tour, with 593 runs, and the 2018-19 Australia series win were highlights. Kohli’s passion for Tests, shown in his 254* against South Africa in 2019, made him a format icon.

Reactions from Cricket Stars

Virat Kohli breaks silence on Test retirement, drawing praise from peers. At the event, Yuvraj Singh called him a “fighter” in Tests, while Shastri lauded his leadership. 

Sachin Tendulkar, on BBC Sports, respected Kohli’s personal choice, saying, “Only he knows what he’s going through.” Gautam Gambhir, India’s coach, said no one can dictate retirement. 

The cricket world, including Novak Djokovic and Harry Kane, hailed Kohli’s global impact.