For the first time since his emotional retirement from Test cricket, Virat Kohli opened up about his decision, using a lighthearted reference to colouring his beard as a symbol that it was the right moment to step away. Speaking at a charity event organised by Yuvraj Singh in London, Virat Kohli shared personal reflections on his journey, his bond with senior teammates, and his hopes for the future of Indian cricket, marking a rare candid moment since his exit from the red-ball format.
On July 8, 2025, Virat Kohli addressed a gathering that included cricketing legends like Yuvraj Singh, Ravi Shastri, Kevin Pietersen, Chris Gayle, and Darren Gough, as well as members of the current Indian team. The event was organised to support the YouWeCan Foundation, bringing together former and current cricketers for a cause while offering fans a glimpse into Virat Kohli’s mindset post-retirement.
Reflecting on Stepping Away
Virat Kohli, who announced his retirement on May 12 through a heartfelt Instagram post, noted that the decision was not easy but felt right. “I just coloured my beard two days ago. You know it’s time when you are colouring your beard every four days,” Virat Kohli joked, hinting at the passage of time and the need to move on.
In his Instagram message, Virat Kohli had expressed gratitude towards the game, the people he shared the field with, and the supporters who stood by him throughout his journey. His decision to retire came shortly after Rohit Sharma also stepped away from Test cricket, creating a significant shift in India’s leadership and senior core.
Virat Kohli concluded his Test career with 123 matches, amassing 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85 and a strike rate of 55.58. His record includes 30 centuries, 31 half-centuries, and seven double hundreds, with a highest score of 254. Notably, Virat Kohli holds the record for the most double centuries by an Indian in Tests, symbolising his dominance and consistency in the longest format.
His contributions extended beyond personal milestones, playing a pivotal role in India’s overseas successes, including leading India to its first-ever Test series win in Australia during the 2018-19 season.
Praise for Shubman Gill and Bond with Yuvraj Singh
Since his retirement, Virat Kohli had refrained from making public statements about cricket but broke his silence to congratulate Shubman Gill, India’s new Test captain, after Shubman Gill’s record-breaking 269-run innings against England in the second Test of the ongoing series. Calling Shubman Gill a “star boy,” Virat Kohli expressed confidence in the young captain’s leadership as India levelled the series with a comprehensive 336-run victory.
Virat Kohli, who attended Wimbledon with his wife Anushka Sharma during his stay in London, appeared in high spirits at the charity event, catching up with former teammates and even rivals like Kevin Pietersen. He spoke about his deep bond with Yuvraj Singh, recalling their first meeting during a North Zone tournament in Bangalore and their shared experiences on and off the field.
“When I started playing for India, Yuvi Pa, Bhajju Pa, and Zak (Zaheer Khan) took me under their wings and made me feel comfortable in the dressing room. They helped me understand the lifestyle and mindset needed to reach the top,” Virat Kohli shared, adding that he would cherish these bonds forever.
Virat Kohli also highlighted how Yuvraj’s battle with cancer and his comeback to the team showcased the resilience and strength that inspired many, including Virat Kohli himself, during his early years in international cricket.
As Virat Kohli steps into the next phase of his life, his reflections during this appearance highlight not only the personal journey of a cricketer who has been a generational figure in Indian cricket but also the bonds and values that shaped his path to becoming one of the most admired players in the world.
