Virat Kohli made his Test debut against the West Indies in Kingston, Jamaica in June 2011. Though his start was modest, his hunger and grit were evident from day one.

Under pressure in Australia, Kohli smashed his maiden Test century (116) in Adelaide, silencing critics and announcing himself as a dependable batsman overseas.

When MS Dhoni suddenly retired from Tests in 2014, Kohli took over as the Test captain. His first series as full-time captain was in Australia—he led with fire and scored 692 runs in 4 Tests.

Kohli redefined fitness standards for Indian cricketers. His commitment to diet, gym, and discipline became the template for the new Indian team culture.

Under Kohli’s leadership, India went on a record-breaking run of 19 unbeaten Test matches—the longest for India. His aggressive and bold approach turned India into a dominant red-ball side.

Kohli proved his mettle as a leader abroad. Though India didn’t win in England in 2018, he ended as the highest run scorer. The 2021 tour of England and wins in Australia established India as world-beaters.

Although Kohli wasn’t captain during the 2020-21 series win (Ajinkya Rahane led after Kohli returned home), he laid the groundwork during India’s historic first-ever series win in Australia in 2018-19.

Virat Kohli retires with 29 Test centuries, over 8,500 runs, and an average touching 50—a rare achievement for modern batters, especially those playing in all formats.

He captained India in 68 Tests, winning 40 of them—the most by any Indian Test captain. His intensity, passion, and never-say-die attitude inspired an entire generation.

Kohli’s retirement from Test cricket marks the end of an era. His legacy is not just in runs and records, but in how he made Indian Test cricket fearless, aggressive, and globally respected.