Legendary India cricketer Virat Kohli, the country’s highest valued sporting brand ambassador by a long mile, has announced his immediate retirement from Test cricket.
His decision, made ahead of this summer’s five-Test tour of England, which starts on 20 June, follows India captain Rohit Sharma’s retirement on Wednesday, and marks the end of an era in Indian cricket.
Kohli, 36, has played 123 Tests for India and scored 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85.
“It’s been 14 years since I first wore the baggy blue in Test cricket,” Kohli posted on social media.
“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.”
Kohli retired from T20 internationals in 2024, after India’s World Cup victory, but is expected to continue playing one-day internationals.
After making his Test debut against West Indies in 2011, Kohli went on to captain India in 68 of his Tests, with his 40 wins in charge making him the country’s most successful leader in the format.
“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,” he added.
“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.”
Per News18, as of 2025, Virat Kohli’s estimated net worth stands at over Rs 1,050 crore (approx. $125 million), making him the richest athlete in India. This staggering wealth is built on a foundation of elite cricket earnings, lucrative endorsements, smart business ventures, and brand-building excellence.
On the brand engagement front, Kohli’s most significant move has been his decision last month to partner with Indian sportswear startup Agilitas Sports, following the conclusion of his eight-year Rs 110 crore endorsement deal with Puma.
He is now an investor, brand ambassador, and board advisor for Agilitas, taking a more active role in shaping the brand’s direction. This also allows Kohli to reposition his brand One8 as a standalone label under Agilitas’s platform, rather than being part of a Puma partnership.
Kohli’s association with Agilitas, along with the company’s own growth and expansion efforts, points to a long-term plan to build out One8 as a global sportswear brand.
