“Can’t believe you are done...” Ravi Shastri stunned as Virat Kohli retires from tests

Virat Kohli retired after playing 123 tests for India from 2011 to 2025.

Former India coach Ravi Shastri shared a heartfelt note for Virat Kohli, who retired from test cricket on May 12, 2025. He amassed 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85 over his test career, which included 30 half-centuries and 31 centuries. An undefeated 254 was his highest score.

Virat Kohli also captained India in 68 tests, winning 40 and losing 11. He is India’s most successful captain in tests and the first one to win a test series in Australia. Kohli attained the feat in the 2018/19 Border-Gavaskar Trophy.

Virat Kohli had reportedly informed the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) of his decision on Saturday, days before the squad announcement for the crucial five-match test series against England. Earlier, it was expected that Kohli would be included in the squad.

“Go well, champ.” – Ravi Shastri tells Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli had endured an extremely poor run of form in test cricket since last year. Kohli scored just 190 runs from five tests in what ended up being his final test series in Australia, averaging just over 23. When he achieved his 30th test century in Perth, which was his ninth test ton against the Australians, 100 of those 190 runs actually came in a single innings.

Furthermore, Kohli’s 93 runs from six innings at an average of 15.50 in the last series against New Zealand was an even worse total. His struggles against the moving ball were evident as eight of his ten dismissals came via edges to the slip cordon.

Despite this, known for his intensity, unmatched fitness, and relentless drive, Kohli leaves behind a remarkable legacy in the longest format of the game. His ex-India coach Ravi Shastri, with whom Kohli shared a strong bond, paid rich tributes to the ace batter.

Kohli and Shastri combined to take India to the top of the test format, and this included the first-ever test series win in Australia and an unbeaten test record at home.

Shastri shared an emotional post on Instagram as he wished Virat Kohli a great life after retirement.

“Can’t believe you are done. You are a modern-day GIANT and were a fantastic ambassador for Test match cricket in every way you played and captained. Thank you for the lasting memories you’ve given to everyone, and to me in particular. It’s something I will cherish for life. Go well, champ. God bless,” Shastri posted.

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A post shared by Ravi Shastri (@ravishastriofficial)

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