New Delhi – In a stunning move that has sent shockwaves through the cricketing world, Virat Kohli announced his retirement from Test cricket on May 12, 2025. The former Indian captain’s decision came just ahead of India’s highly anticipated Test series against England. While fans mourned the end of an era, it was Ravi Shastri’s candid revelation that provided deeper context behind the timing of Kohli’s exit.
Ravi Shastri: “He Was Mentally Fried”
Former India head coach Ravi Shastri, who played a key role in shaping Kohli’s leadership style and work ethic during their time together, offered crucial insight into Kohli’s state of mind leading up to the retirement.
“I had a chat with him a week before the announcement. I had a fair idea that this could be his last. He said, ‘I’m done, I need a break,’” Shastri revealed during an interview on The ICC Review.
Shastri emphasized that Kohli’s decision stemmed not from a physical issue but from mental fatigue.
“He was mentally fried, and that can happen. He’s been playing international cricket non-stop for almost 15 years. That kind of intensity takes a toll. You might be physically the fittest guy in the business, but mentally you’re well done.”
The Cost of Relentless Intensity
Shastri noted that Kohli’s commitment to the game, while admirable, may have contributed to his burnout.
“That much involvement, I would think there’s going to be a burnout somewhere if he doesn’t take a rest, if he doesn’t compartmentalize how much he wants to play across formats.”
This statement has fueled conversations in the cricketing community about the importance of mental health and player workload management, especially in a demanding multi-format environment.
Kohli’s Stellar Test Legacy
Virat Kohli leaves behind one of the most illustrious careers in Test cricket. Over 123 Tests, Kohli amassed 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85, with 30 centuries and 29 half-centuries. His tenure as India’s Test captain saw the team rise to the No. 1 ICC ranking, winning 40 out of 68 matches—more than any Indian captain in history.
He was also the first Indian captain to win a Test series in Australia, an achievement that significantly bolstered his reputation as a fierce and fearless leader.
A Spiritual Turn After Cricket
Shortly after his retirement, Kohli, accompanied by his wife Anushka Sharma, visited Vrindavan to meet spiritual leader Premanand Ji Maharaj. The couple’s visit drew attention for its timing and personal significance.
Kohli has previously spoken about his spiritual leanings, saying:
“I’m not someone who does pooja-paath, but I do believe in energy. I believe there’s some superpower that governs the universe.”
This move suggests that the former skipper may now be turning inward, seeking balance and peace after years of intense public scrutiny and professional pressure.
Who Will Lead India in Tests Now?
With both Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma having retired from Test cricket—Rohit having announced his own retirement on May 7, 2025—India now faces a leadership vacuum in the red-ball format.
Rohit, in his retirement post, stated:
“Hello everyone I would just like to share that I am retiring from Test cricket. It’s been an absolute honour to represent my country in whites. Thank you for all the love and support over the years. I will continue to represent India in the ODI format.”
As the Indian cricket board evaluates its options, several names are under consideration for the future Test captaincy. Jasprit Bumrah, Shubman Gill, and Ravindra Jadeja are among the frontrunners. Veteran spinner R. Ashwin recently remarked that Jadeja could be a strong long-term option if given support and grooming.
Conclusion: A Chapter Closes, a New Era Begins
Virat Kohli’s Test retirement not only marks the end of an era but also sets the stage for a major transition in Indian cricket. His impact—both as a player and as a leader—has been monumental. As Ravi Shastri aptly said:
“He’s been a fabulous ambassador for Test cricket. What he’s done for the format in India, no one else has.”
While fans will miss Kohli’s passion in whites, the foundations he laid are sure to guide the next generation of Indian Test cricketers.
