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A chapter of the golden era of Indian cricket 12 May 2025 Closed when Virat Kohli announced his retirement from Test cricket. This news was nothing short of a shock for cricket fans.
Kohli, who is called the king of modern cricket, in his Instagram post “#269″ By writing, he said goodbye to his Test career. But what is this 269 number? And what is hidden in their last message? Come, let’s know this story closely.
269 Number Story: A Test Cap, One Heritage
Virat Kohli was handed over India’s 269th Test cap in his first Test match against the West Indies in 2011. It became the identity of his Test career, not just a number.
The cap saw his 14 -year Test journey, in which he scored 9,230 runs, scored 30 centuries, and India won 40 Tests.
The number 269 was very special for Kohli. He said on several occasions that Test cricket is closest to his heart, as it is the pure form of the game.
Writing “#269” in his Instagram post was a tribute to the cap that started his career. This number tells the story of their struggle, passion and leadership.
Kohli’s last message: sea of emotions
Virat Kohli announced his retirement through an emotional Instagram post. He wrote, “Test cricket has been everything for me.
Every moment, every run, every victory taught me that anything can be achieved with hard work and patience. This decision was not easy, but it seems right. #269, you will always be with me. ”
This message touched the hearts of millions of fans. Kohli not only remembered his Test career in his message, but thanked all of them who were part of his journey.
His wife Anushka Sharma also commented on this post and wrote, “You have seen tears and passion in your eyes. You are a warrior.”
Kohli’s contribution to Test cricket
Virat Kohli’s Test career is not limited to figures just. He gave a new direction to Indian Test cricket. After assuming captaincy in 2014, he tasted India on foreign soil.
The biggest example of this is the 2018-19 historic Test series win (2–1) in Australia. His fitness culture inspired young players, and his aggressive attitude gave new confidence to Indian cricket.
Kohli scored 9,230 runs in 113 Tests at an average of 46.85. His 30 centuries include 7 double centuries, the highest among Indian batsmen.
His unbeaten innings of 254 runs (2019, against South Africa) and dual century innings (115 and 141) played in Adelaide in 2014 will always be alive in the hearts of fans.
Why retirement?
Kohli’s performance in the 2024 Border-Gavaskar Trophy (190 runs in 5 matches) was nothing special. After this, Rohit Sharma’s retirement also gave air to the discussions.
Many experts believe that Kohli now wants to focus on ODI and IPL, so that we can be ready for the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Some say that before the upcoming Test series against England (starting from 20 June 2025), Kohli took this step to give young players a chance.
However, Kohli made it clear in his message that the decision came from his heart. He said, “I always gave everything for the country. Now is the time to retreat and let the new generation move forward.”
Response of fans and veterans
The news of Kohli’s retirement brought a storm on social media. The post of @Spncricinfo on X was viewed millions of times, in which fans called Kohli a “king of Test cricket”.
Sachin Tendulkar tweeted, “Virat, you have lived Test cricket. Your legacy will always inspire.” Former England captain Michael Won also said, “Kohli made Test cricket more exciting.”
Bollywood stars also saluted Kohli. Katrina Kaif wrote, “Virat, you raised the head of every Indian with pride.” At the same time, Angad Bedi said, “269 number is now not just a cap, but a story.”
What is Kohli’s next step?
After saying goodbye to Test cricket, Kohli’s focus will now be on ODI and IPL. He has 13,906 ODI runs, and is dreaming of making India a champion for the second time in the 2027 ODI World Cup.
In addition, fans are desperate to see their light in IPL 2025 for Royal Challengers Bangalore.
The end of an era, but the story continues
Virat Kohli’s test retirement is a big disadvantage for Indian cricket, but his legacy will always be alive. The number 269 is now not just a test cap, but a symbol of passion, hard work and dedication.
Kohli wrote in his last message, “Test cricket made me. It is in my blood.”
So, fans, what do you have to say? Which is your favorite moment of Virat Kohli’s Test career? And #269 What does you mean to you? Tell me in the comment and share this story.
