The cricketing world is reeling from the announcement of Virat Kohli's retirement from Test cricket on May 12, 2025, bringing an end to his illustrious 14-year career in the longest format of the game. The news has triggered an outpouring of tributes from fellow cricketers, sporting legends, and fans worldwide, transcending the boundaries of cricket and reaching into the realm of global sports icons. Among those paying homage to Kohli's remarkable journey are football giants Manchester City and Bayern Munich, highlighting the Indian star's widespread influence.
Manchester City, the renowned English Premier League club, shared a post on social media featuring Kohli and his wife, Anushka Sharma, holding customized City jerseys with their names on the back. The club's caption, "All the best in your retirement from Test cricket, Virat Kohli," underscores the respect and admiration the football world holds for the Indian cricketer.
Similarly, Bayern Munich, the Bundesliga champions, joined in the tributes, posting a photo of Kohli alongside their star striker, Harry Kane. Their congratulatory message, "All the best in your retirement from Test cricket. Congratulations on an absolutely legendary career, Virat Kohli," further exemplifies the global recognition of Kohli's achievements. Harry Kane also showed his appreciation by commenting with a red heart emoji on Kohli's retirement post.
Kohli's retirement from Test cricket marks the end of an era in Indian cricket. Over his stellar career, he played 123 Test matches, amassing 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85. He led India in 68 Tests between 2014 and 2022, securing 40 victories and leaving an indelible mark on the game. In 2018-19, he etched his name in history as the first Indian Test captain to defeat Australia on their home ground. His 30 Test centuries are the fourth-most by an Indian batter, only behind Sachin Tendulkar (51), Rahul Dravid (36), and Sunil Gavaskar (34). Kohli also holds the record for the most Test double centuries by an Indian, with seven to his name.
Beyond his individual achievements, Kohli's impact on Indian cricket extends to his leadership and commitment to excellence. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) acknowledged his contributions, stating that he "redefined the standards of excellence, leadership, and commitment." His aggressive approach and refusal to settle for anything less than the best inspired a new generation of cricketers to take pride in the Test format.
In his farewell message, Kohli expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to represent India in Test cricket, stating, "It's been 14 years since I first wore the baggy blue in Test cricket. Honestly, I never imagined the journey this format would take me on. It's tested me, shaped me, and taught me lessons I'll carry for life." He added, "As I step away from this format, it's not easy – but it feels right. I've given it everything I had, and it's given me back so much more than I could've hoped for."
While Kohli's retirement from Test cricket has undoubtedly left a void in the hearts of cricket fans, he will continue to play One-Day International (ODI) matches for India. Many speculate that he will aim to participate in the 2027 Cricket World Cup. With his Test commitments now behind him, he will have more time to pursue his various business ventures and brand endorsements.
As tributes continue to pour in from all corners of the globe, it is evident that Virat Kohli's legacy extends far beyond the cricket field. His impact as a player, captain, and global sporting icon will be felt for generations to come.
