Virat Kohli Declares He's Finished with Test Cricket at One8 Launch
Kohli's Firm Stance on Test Cricket
New Delhi, June 21: Renowned Indian cricketer Virat Kohli has firmly stated that he has no intention of returning to Test cricket, declaring that he is "done with it."
This statement came during the launch of the sportswear brand One8, co-founded by Kohli, held in the capital city on Sunday.
During the event, popular host and comedian Danish Sait humorously pointed out that the price of one of the brand's shoes, 9,230 rupees, matched Kohli's total Test runs. He jokingly asked if Kohli would consider a comeback to increase his run tally and enhance the shoe's sales. Kohli responded with a laugh, saying, "I would rather undersell, I’m done with it (Test cricket), thank you."
Kohli had previously announced his retirement from Test cricket in May of last year, concluding a remarkable 14-year career that showcased his prowess across various conditions and opponents, both as a batsman and captain.
Throughout his Test career, Kohli played 123 matches, accumulating 9,230 runs at an impressive average of 46.85, which includes 30 centuries and 31 fifties, with a highest score of 254*. He ranks as India's fourth-highest run-scorer in Test history, trailing behind legends Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, and Sunil Gavaskar.
From 2016 to 2019, Kohli experienced one of the most prolific phases in Test cricket, amassing 4,208 runs in 43 matches at an average of 66.79, featuring 16 centuries and 10 fifties, with a top score of 254*. This period also saw him achieve seven double centuries, the most by any captain in Test cricket.
As India's most successful Test captain, Kohli led the team to 40 victories in 68 matches after taking over the captaincy in 2014 during the Australian tour when MS Dhoni was injured.
Later, addressing a large audience in Dwarka, Kohli reminisced about his cricketing beginnings in Delhi and expressed his joy at launching the brand in his hometown.
"Delhi is where everything began for me. I was born here, my cricket journey started here, and it will always hold a special place in my heart. Launching One8 in Delhi after all these years feels like a dream come true. I never imagined it would become a reality, but the love from my fans over the years has brought us to this moment," he shared.