The Indian Test team has been thrust into uncertainty following Virat Kohli’s unexpected retirement from the longest format on Monday, just weeks ahead of a crucial five-match series in England. Kohli’s departure marks the end of a formidable era, as the batting giant leaves behind a legacy spanning over 14 years of resilience, excellence, and unmatched intensity in red-ball cricket.
An inspirational figure and icon to Indian cricket fans, Kohli was the country`s most successful Test captain with 40 wins and 17 defeats in 68 matches before stepping down from the role in 2022. The fiercely competitive Kohli averaged close to 55 at his peak between 2011 and 2019, but he could muster only 32.56 over the past 24 months in Tests and had come under pressure.
Whether it was the hallowed turf of Lord’s or the fiery pace of Perth, his presence commanded attention and his words stirred the soul of Indian cricket. They are more than just quotes, they are echoes of a career defined by steely resolve and unwavering commitment.
“The bat is not a toy, it’s a weapon. It gives me everything in my life, which helps me to do everything in the field.”
Few cricketers have demonstrated the level of devotion to their craft that Kohli has. With 70 international centuries to his name, his bond with the bat was deeply emotional and spiritual.
“Chasing the target was always on our mind. Negativity has no place in this team.”
Kohli’s debut as Test captain during the 2014 Adelaide Test signaled a dramatic shift in India`s overseas mindset. While India ultimately fell short in a tightly contested match, his twin centuries and unwavering aggression redefined how Indian cricket would be perceived abroad. It wasn’t merely about enduring tough conditions anymore, it was about dictating terms. His leadership, even in defeat, injected a fearless identity into the team.
“My 150 doesn’t matter. A 30 in a winning cause would’ve meant far more.”
This statement, made after scoring a sublime 153 in a losing effort, encapsulates Kohli’s selfless mindset. For a batter of his calibre, personal milestones never outweighed team success. Even in moments of individual brilliance, his focus remained on collective triumph.
“If someone’s laughing now, let them, because for the next 60 overs, they’ll feel the heat.”
On the final day at Lord’s in 2021, with the match seemingly headed for a draw, Kohli’s on-field fire became the catalyst for a stunning Indian turnaround. His words reflected his trademark intensity and fierce resolve, factors that turned ordinary sessions into match-winning ones. Under his command, India didn’t just compete; they dominated with intent and unrelenting energy.
“A lot of people tell me a lot of things about my conduct, my game, my future… but I try to stay away from their words of wisdom. I don’t let it distract me. On the field, you will be facing the ball alone. If you fail, you will be the only one to blame. So, you should be the one deciding for yourself.”
Kohli has long been a subject of intense scrutiny, praised, criticised, dissected. Yet, his mental strength remained unshaken. These words offer insight into his fiercely independent approach, grounded in personal accountability. For Kohli, success was built not just on talent, but on the clarity of mind to drown out external noise and trust his own instincts.
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