Indian cricket megastar and Australia’s nemesis Virat Kohli has officially pulled stumps on his Test cricket career.
The news of the star’s impending retirement was leaked over the weekend, but after days of speculation and rumours the Board of Control for Cricket in India was hopeful they could change Kohli’s mind; the man himself confirmed the news.
The 36-year-old took to Instagram to confirm his declaration and thank his legions of dedicated fans for their support.
Alongside the message, he posted a photo of himself saluting the crowd at Optus Stadium in Perth after his last Test century struck against Australia in November during the Border-Gavaskar series.
The Instagram post read: “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.
“There’s something deeply personal about playing in whites. The quiet grind, the long days, the small moments that no one sees but that stay with you forever.
“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.
“I’m walking away with a heart full of gratitude — for the game, for the people I shared the field with, and for every single person who made me feel seen along the way.
“I’ll always look back at my Test career with a smile.
“#269, signing off.”
Kohli finishes his international red-ball career with 9230 runs from 123 outings at 46.85 with 30 centuries and 31 half centuries.
His top score of 254 not out came against South Africa.
Content Source: www.perthnow.com.au