Virat Kohli Announces Retirement from Test Cricket: A Look Back at His Journey
Virat Kohli's Retirement from Test Cricket
The speculation surrounding Virat Kohli's future in Test cricket has finally reached a conclusion. The 36-year-old cricketing legend has officially declared his retirement from the longest format of the game, marking the end of an era characterized by his unmatched passion and intensity.
Kohli's farewell in Test whites occurred during a challenging Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia. Once a stage for his triumphs, Australia became the backdrop for a painful exit. His final innings ended with a dismissal, edging a delivery from Scott Boland behind the stumps. Kohli's journey in Australia has seen him evolve from a promising talent to a dominant force, ultimately facing the inevitable challenges of age and time.
Kohli's Impact in Australia
Kohli first made his mark in the red-ball format in Australia, where he scored centuries and led India to a historic series victory. However, the same venue that witnessed his rise also marked his struggles.
Despite his recent successes in the Indian Premier League and playing a crucial role in India's ICC Champions Trophy victory, Kohli's Test career has come to a close.
Timeline of Kohli's Tours to Australia
1. **2011-12**: At just 23, Kohli faced immense scrutiny on his first tour to Australia. After a disappointing debut, he turned his fortunes around with scores of 44 and 75 in Perth, culminating in his maiden Test century in Adelaide against a formidable bowling attack.
2. **2014-15**: This tour came during a transitional phase for India. Kohli, leading in Dhoni's absence, scored 692 runs in four matches, including two centuries, establishing himself as a dominant force.
3. **2018**: Kohli aimed for his first series win as captain in Australia. He scored 282 runs in four matches, including a memorable 123 at Perth, leading India to a 2-1 series victory.
4. **2020-21**: Kohli's only match was the first Test, where he scored 74. He returned home after a humiliating loss, with India later winning the series under Rahane's captaincy.
5. **2024-25**: In what would be his final series, Kohli struggled, scoring only 190 runs in nine innings. His last image in Australia was one of frustration as he walked back to the pavilion.