India’s ongoing tour of England marks the team’s first Test series without Virat Kohli since 2014. The absence of the modern-day great — who retired from Test cricket earlier this year — has left a noticeable void in the dressing room and among fans around the world.
Kohli’s sudden decision to step away from the longest format came as a shock to many. The former Indian captain finished with 9,230 runs in 123 Tests at an average of 46.9, including 30 centuries — the last of which came in the opening match of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024–25.
Reflecting on Kohli’s departure, New Zealand’s Kane Williamson shared his thoughts in an interview with The Times of India. The former Black Caps skipper reminisced about their shared journey from the Under-19 days to the international stage.
“Our careers have kind of married up from under-19s through to captaining or playing for your country. Then in the captain instance that we did that… were very similar times to the natural progression. Everybody finishes,” Williamson said.
“When some of those decisions are made, it does stop you and make you consider a lot of things, but also appreciation and respect. Someone like Virat… so many great moments throughout the international game, but really the bond outside of the pitch is something that’s far more special and those experiences that have been shared together.”
He added: “All good things come to an end, and the way he’s been able to make those decisions that feel comfortable to him… I think it’s been incredible going out on his terms, etc. Although still involved in one of the formats.”
Kohli’s retirement just before the start of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025 sparked speculation of a forced exit. However, BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla denied any such narrative, reaffirming that the board does not influence player retirements.
Kohli’s final appearance in Tests came during the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia, where he scored 190 runs, including a memorable unbeaten century in the series opener. Despite his efforts, India lost the series 1–3, with Australia sealing their place in the World Test Championship final.
