Sudden. Abrupt. Understandable. Yet Incomplete.
These were the emotions that flooded my mind as I read Virat Kohli’s Instagram post announcing his retirement from Test cricket. The news hit like a thunderbolt, leaving fans and pundits alike grappling with the reality that one of the greatest ambassadors of modern Test cricket had decided to step away from the game he so passionately championed.
Kohli’s decision comes at a time when he’s in the midst of a scintillating IPL season, a reminder of his enduring class and hunger for runs. One couldn’t help but hope for a resurgence in his Test career, perhaps a final flourish in the upcoming England series or a swansong at the iconic Lord’s or The Oval. But true to his nature, Kohli chose to exit on his own terms, leaving behind a legacy that will forever be etched in the annals of cricket history.
His journey spanned 14 glorious years, a period that saw the evolution of social media from Facebook to Instagram. Kohli’s career mirrored this transformation, as he redefined the art of batting and leadership, ensuring that Test cricket remained relevant and thrilling for a generation captivated by the T20 frenzy.
Three Phases of a Legend
Kohli’s Test career can be divided into three distinct phases. The first, from 2011 to 2015, saw him establish himself as a force to reckon with, amassing 2,994 runs at an average of 44.02. His knocks in Johannesburg, Wellington, and Adelaide during this period were a testament to his growing mastery over the game.
The second phase, from 2016 to 2019, was nothing short of extraordinary. Kohli was at the peak of his powers, scoring 4,208 runs at an astonishing average of 66.79. This period also saw him transform into a fitness icon and a leader who instilled a winning mentality in the Indian team. His seven double centuries during this phase were a testament to his insatiable hunger for runs.
The final phase, post-2020, was marked by a gradual decline in form. Despite occasional flashes of brilliance, Kohli struggled to replicate the consistency of his peak years. Yet, even in this phase, he managed to deliver match-winning performances, including a memorable century in Perth.
The Captain Who Changed Indian Cricket
Kohli’s impact as a captain was as profound as his batting. Under his leadership, India became a dominant force in Test cricket, winning 40 out of 68 matches with a win percentage of nearly 59%. He nurtured a world-class bowling attack and instilled a culture of aggression and self-belief that transformed the team’s fortunes, especially in overseas conditions.
His mantra was simple: play to win, no matter the odds. This mindset led India to historic victories in Australia, the West Indies, and England. Kohli’s captaincy also saw India ascend to the No. 1 spot in the ICC Test rankings, a position they held for five consecutive years.
A Legacy Beyond Numbers
While Kohli’s numbers are staggering—7,847 runs, 29 centuries, and an average of 47.29—his legacy transcends statistics. He inspired a generation to embrace fitness, discipline, and a never-say-die attitude. He made Test cricket cool again, ensuring that the longest format of the game remained relevant in an era dominated by T20s.
As we bid farewell to one of the greatest to have graced the game, we are reminded of the privilege of witnessing his journey. From the fearless young batsman to the indomitable leader, Kohli’s career has been a masterclass in excellence and passion.
Thank you, King Kohli, for leaving a ‘Virat’ legacy!
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