Virat Kohli, one of India’s most celebrated cricketers, shocked the world by announcing his retirement from Test cricket at 36. While fans expected him to continue for at least two more years, the sudden move has sparked several emotional and critical discussions. Kohli’s decision has stirred emotions and triggered debates on dressing room politics, player treatment, and leadership dynamics within Team India.
What Made Virat Kohli Step Away from Test Cricket?
Kohli’s fitness is world-class, his form was decent, and his performances in the IPL 2025 season showed he still had plenty to offer. Yet, his exit from the longest format came when no one expected it. According to inside sources, the issue wasn’t cricketing ability—it was about the team’s internal environment.
It is believed that after Rohit Sharma announced his Test retirement, Virat had informal discussions with the BCCI about taking up the captaincy again. However, this private discussion was reportedly leaked. That leak deeply upset Kohli, who values respect and professionalism. The situation suggested a power struggle going on inside the dressing room. Kohli felt ignored and disrespected, which may have led him to step back.
Like Rohit Sharma and R Ashwin, Kohli’s exit seems less about performance and more about internal team conflicts. The team management reportedly told Ashwin that he was no longer the No. 1 spinner and that his selection would depend on pitch conditions. These repeated snubs to senior players suggest something deeper is going on within the team setup.
Kohli’s Test Career: A Glorious Chapter
Virat Kohli played 123 Test matches for India over 14 years and scored 9,230 runs with an average of 46.85. He made 30 centuries in the format, most from his preferred number 4 position. In fact, in 99 Test matches at number 4, he scored 7,564 runs at an average of 50.09. These numbers prove he was a consistent performer and a match-winner in crucial situations.
His aggressive batting style, sharp focus, and leadership skills helped shape Team India’s image as a fierce competitor in world cricket. Under his captaincy, India won a historic series overseas, including the memorable Test series win in Australia.
Who Will Fill Kohli’s Shoes in Test Cricket?
After Kohli’s exit, Team India faces a significant challenge—who will take up the number 4 batting position in Test cricket? Four strong contenders are under the radar of selectors: KL Rahul, Shreyas Iyer, Rajat Patidar, and Devdutt Padikkal. Let’s look at their records.
KL Rahul: Reliable and Flexible
KL Rahul is one of the most experienced players in the current setup. So far, he has played 58 Tests and scored 3,257 runs at an average of 33.57. He has chiefly opened the innings but also batted in the middle order. He played one Test at number 4 and scored an average of 54 in that match. Rahul also doubles up as a wicketkeeper, which adds to his value. Team management sees him as a reliable option for replacing Kohli.
Shreyas Iyer: Powerful Hitter, Yet to Prove in Tests
Shreyas Iyer is another contender. Although he has played only 14 Tests, he has scored 811 runs with one century and an average of 36.86. He hasn’t had many chances in the longer format but has shown potential in the domestic circuit and shorter formats. His ability to handle pressure and play attacking shots could make him a good choice at number 4, but consistency will be the key.
Rajat Patidar: New Name with Solid Domestic Record
Rajat Patidar made his Test debut against England in 2024, but he did not get to bat much in the series. However, his domestic cricket record is impressive. In 68 first-class matches, he has scored 4,738 runs with 13 centuries and 24 half-centuries. In the Ranji Trophy 2024–25 season, he scored 529 runs in 11 innings at an average of 48, showing good form. If the selectors are looking for a fresh face, Patidar could be the answer.
Devdutt Padikkal: Young Talent with a High Batting Average
Devdutt Padikkal also debuted in Test cricket in 2024 and played two matches, scoring 90 runs in 3 innings. His first-class batting average is 57.81, higher than many experienced players. His style is more suited for longer innings, and he could be groomed as a long-term replacement for Kohli if given consistent chances.
Will Kohli’s Retirement Hit His Brand Value?
Virat Kohli’s brand value in 2023 was estimated at around ₹1,900 crore (approx. $227.9 million). He endorsed over 40 top brands, including Puma, MRF Tyres, Myntra, Audi, Boost, Nestle, Pepsi, and Tissot. His ₹100 crore deal with Puma was a first in Indian cricket history.
Despite stepping away from Test cricket, experts believe his brand value will not drop. He still plays ODIs and T20s, maintains elite fitness, and has a clean public image. With over 270 million followers on social media, brands still see him as a strong and stable face for promotions.
Kohli’s Earnings and Investments
Virat’s earnings are not limited to just playing cricket. Here’s a breakdown:
- BCCI A+ contract: ₹7 crore annually
- Match Fees: ₹15 lakh for Tests, ₹6 lakh for ODIs, ₹3 lakh for T20Is
- IPL 2025 Salary: ₹21 crore with Royal Challengers Bangalore
- Total IPL Earnings: ₹212.44 crore so far
His net worth in 2025 is estimated at ₹1,050 crore (about $125 million). Kohli is also a savvy investor. He is co-owner of FC Goa (ISL football team) and has invested in startups like:
- Chisel Fitness
- Wrogn (fashion brand)
- Digit Insurance
- Blue Tribe (plant-based meat brand)
Just like Sachin Tendulkar and MS Dhoni stayed active in the brand world after retirement, Kohli too is expected to remain in the limelight—either as a brand ambassador, entrepreneur, mentor, or commentator.
Three Retirements, One Pattern?
Kohli’s exit is not the only surprise. In the last 6 months, three senior Indian players—R Ashwin, Rohit Sharma, and now Virat Kohli—have retired from Test cricket. Interestingly, all three were fit, in form, and expected to play for a few more years.
Ashwin was reportedly told that he was no longer the team’s top spinner, and Rohit was informed that the management would not see him in the Test squad till 2027. All three exits seem to follow a familiar pattern—pressure from within the team or management rather than pure cricketing reasons.
This trend has created a storm among fans and experts alike. Many question whether senior players are being pushed out in favour of younger ones under a new leadership setup that wants complete control. It may take time for the full story, but these exits show that Indian cricket is going through a phase of significant internal changes.
Sources: TV9 Hindi, BCCI, IPL, Forbes, Economic Times
Disclaimer: The above article is based on media reports and publicly available data. The author does not verify personal views or speculative claims.
