Author:  Yashika Bhasin (Sports Analytics Expert)

Last Updated: October 24, 2025

What next after Virat Kohli Retirement

The news of Virat Kohli retirement has left millions of cricket fans in disbelief. Known for his passion, aggression, and unmatched consistency, the modern-day legend has decided to bid adieu to the longest format. The Kohli retirement news broke during India’s Test campaign, creating massive buzz across the cricket world. As India’s cricketing heartbeat, Virat Kohli

retirement quitting cricket in Tests marks the end of an unforgettable chapter.

Even at 36, Kohli’s dedication to fitness and form continues to inspire. The announcement of his retirement Test wasn’t just about leaving a format — it was symbolic of an era concluding. In this blog, we explore his complete journey, Virat Kohli retirement farewell, and what’s next for the icon.

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Virat Kohli retirement Test cricket reasons

There are several Virat Kohli retirement Test cricket reasons that made his decision understandable. After 14 incredible years in Test cricket, fatigue, workload management, and his desire to focus on family time were major factors.​

Kohli expressed that playing 123 Tests and scoring over 9230 runs had tested him mentally and physically. Despite his strong performances, he felt the time was right. His fitness level reflected excellence, but emotionally, he wanted to “pass the torch.”

He also revealed it was about embracing a new life phase where family — especially Anushka and his two kids — needed his time.

Virat Kohli retirement age and career stats

At Virat Kohli age at retirement (36 years), he redefined what longevity means in modern cricket. With 123 Test matches, 9,230 runs, 30 centuries, 31 half-centuries, and a stellar average of 46.85, Kohli’s records stand tall.​

As captain, his performance was monumental. He led India in 68 Tests and won 40 of them, making him India’s most successful Test captain. Under his leadership, India achieved a historic series win in Australia (2018-19) and maintained the No.1 ICC Test ranking for nearly five years.

His impressive top score of 254* against South Africa remains one of his signature knocks.

Kohli’s unforgettable farewell moment

Fans witnessed the emotional Virat Kohli retirement farewell during his last Test in Mumbai in May 2025. Tears in his eyes, a smile on his face, and the ovation that lasted several minutes — an image that will remain etched in every fan’s heart.​

As commentators called it the “end of an era,” Kohli thanked teammates, coaches, and fans for their unwavering support. That farewell moment wasn’t just about a cricketer leaving the field; it was about a cultural shift in Indian cricket.

How Gautam Gambhir reacted to Virat Kohli retirement

One of the most widely discussed reactions came through Gambhir’s media comments. How Gautam Gambhir reacted to Virat Kohli retirement surprised fans, as he praised Kohli’s relentless spirit and leadership evolution.

Despite their well-known IPL disagreements, Gambhir admired Kohli’s discipline and impact, describing him as a “master of mental toughness.” This subtle warmth in their dynamic dispelled many rivalry rumors that trended during the Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir retirement rumors phase.

Virat Kohli retirement relation with Gautam Gambhir

The Virat Kohli retirement relation with Gautam Gambhir has always intrigued fans. Once fiery competitors in the IPL, they later transitioned into cricketing figures of mutual admiration. Post-retirement, Gambhir quoted, “I respect the player he became and the man he always was.”

Both share a deep-rooted Delhi connection, intense drive, and an unrelenting passion for Indian cricket.

Virat Kohli retirement message meaning “269”

In his heartfelt letter, Kohli ended with “269,” the number symbolizing his Test cap. The Virat Kohli retirement message meaning “269” was an ode to his journey — from a Delhi boy to India’s 269th Test player.​

It wasn’t a random number but a representation of identity, legacy, and loyalty to the Indian jersey. Fans across social media made “269” trend as an emotional hashtag.

Virat Kohli retirement impact on Indian cricket

The Virat Kohli retirement impact on Indian cricket will echo for decades. His departure doesn’t just leave a gap in numbers but leadership charisma and fitness culture that transformed Indian cricket.​

Kohli redefined Test cricket’s relevance in the T20 era, turning it into a badge of honor. Youngsters like Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal now follow his mental conditioning methods.

Kohli’s farewell and ODI future

Fans speculated when he waved goodbye after an ODI game this October, sparking Virat Kohli retirement farewell match and Gautam Gambhir debates on X (formerly Twitter) and newsrooms.​

Reports suggest that Virat Kohli hints at ODI retirement plans are true — possibly after the 2027 Cricket World Cup. Yet, Sunil Gavaskar clarified that Kohli would ensure he exits on a high note.​

Virat Kohli post retirement plans with Anushka Sharma

A crucial section of his journey involves Virat Kohli post retirement plans with Anushka Sharma. In a recent interview, he shared that he will take “a long break from visibility.” He plans to travel with Anushka and their children, focusing on family bonding and philanthropy.​

Anushka, ever his pillar of support, was seen emotional at his farewell game. The couple’s shared vision for sustainable living and animal welfare remains central to their future endeavors.

What will Virat Kohli do after retiring from cricket

The question What will Virat Kohli do after retiring from cricket excites fans globally. Reports indicate he might explore commentary, mentorship at RCB, and possibly a fitness brand expansion under “One8.”

He also expressed interest in academic projects related to sports psychology and youth fitness. Given his communication mastery and discipline, expect Kohli to shine off the field just as he did on it.

Virat Kohli’s career after Test retirement

His Virat Kohli's career after Test retirement continues with the IPL and ODI formats. Despite stepping away from red-ball cricket, his commitment to Royal Challengers Bengaluru remains unchanged.

Data reveals that since his Test exit, Kohli has improved his strike rate and reduced stress, focusing on shorter formats

Virat Kohli retirement and IPL future

When discussing Virat Kohli retirement and IPL future, experts believe his performance could actually inspire RCB’s upward resurgence. Playing without Test pressure allows Kohli to focus exclusively on T20 leagues, possibly leading to an IPL title soon.​

His form in IPL 2025 shows this renewed energy — 505 runs in 12 matches with a strike rate of 143.

Gautam Gambhir retirement talks and chats about Kohli

Cricket fans fondly recall Gautam Gambhir retirement talks and chats about Kohli, especially when Gambhir appeared on a podcast discussing legacy. He mentioned Kohli’s “fire, which Indian cricket needed,” calling him a catalyst for fearless mindset transformation.

The mutual respect between them is a testament to professional evolution beyond cricketing differences.

Virat Kohli retirement social media reaction

Within hours of his announcement, Virat Kohli retirement social media reaction took over platforms like Instagram, X, and YouTube. Hashtags like #KingKohli, #ViratRetires, and #269Forever trended across 50+ countries.​

From Sachin Tendulkar’s heartfelt post to global stars like AB de Villiers and Novak Djokovic reacting, it proved his impact extended far beyond cricket.

What next after Virat Kohli retirement?

So, What next after Virat Kohli retirement? The answer lies in balance. Kohli is expected to play selective ODI tournaments and the IPL until 2027, after which he may transition into mentorship roles.

His presence in youth fitness programs, brand leadership initiatives, and motivational speaking circuits could redefine athlete retirement itself.

FAQs

Q1. Why did Virat Kohli retire from Test cricket?
He wanted to manage his workload, focus on family life, and make room for younger talent.

Q2. What is Virat Kohli age at retirement?
Kohli retired from Tests at 36 years.

Q3. Did Gautam Gambhir and Kohli end their rivalry?
Yes. Both have shown mutual respect after retirement, putting aside past IPL spats.

Q4. Will Kohli play IPL after retirement?
Yes, his Virat Kohli retirement and IPL future remain bright, with full 2026 and 2027 seasons expected.

Q5. What next after Virat Kohli retirement?
He plans travel, family time, and selective cricket involvement while mentoring upcoming players.

Conclusion

The Virat Kohli retirement might mark the end of a Test cricket saga, but the larger-than-life influence he leaves behind will inspire generations. His unwavering dedication, discipline, and self-belief make him one of the most complete athletes ever produced.

As fans turn to highlight reels, quotes, and rewind moments of his career, one thing is certain — Kohli’s journey from “Chiku” to “King” will remain a benchmark for excellence.

Whether it’s the Virat Kohli retirement relation with Gautam Gambhir, his remarkable Virat Kohli age at retirement (36 years), or speculations about Virat Kohli quitting cricket, every aspect of his story shows that heroes may retire, but their legacy doesn’t.