‘He had no regrets’ – Ravi Shastri on Virat Kohli’s Test retirement

Ravi Shastri Opens Up About Virat Kohli’s Test Retirement

Virat Kohli’s decision to retire from Test cricket surprised many cricket fans, but according to former India head coach Ravi Shastri, it was a well-thought-out and clear decision from the star batsman. On Monday, May 12, Kohli officially announced his retirement from the longest format of the game, ending a glorious chapter in Indian cricket. Shastri, who worked closely with Kohli for many years, revealed that Kohli had spoken to him about the decision a week before it was made public.

In a conversation on The ICC Review, Shastri shared details of that private discussion. “I spoke to him about this, I think a week before the announcement,” Shastri said. “His mind was very clear. He felt he had given everything to the game, especially to Test cricket, which he loved the most. There were no regrets.”

Shastri further explained that he asked Kohli a few questions during the chat, and the answers made it clear that the former Indian captain was at peace with his decision. “There was no doubt in his mind. That made me feel confident too, and I agreed with him that it was the right time. The mind had spoken to the body and said, ‘It’s time to go.’”

Kohli’s dedication to the game has always stood out. Shastri praised him for the intensity and passion he brought to every match. “When Virat decides to do something, he gives 100% — and that’s something very hard to match,” he said. “It’s not just about batting or fielding. When the team steps out, it feels like he wants to do everything — take wickets, take catches, make decisions, motivate others. That kind of involvement is rare.”

However, Shastri also warned that such high levels of energy and commitment can lead to burnout if not managed carefully. “If he didn’t take a step back and decide what formats he wants to focus on, then burnout was just a matter of time,” Shastri added.

Virat Kohli’s Test career ends just before India’s crucial five-match series against England. While fans would have loved to see him in action in that series, his overall contribution to Indian Test cricket will not be forgotten. Kohli leaves the format with an impressive 9,230 runs and 30 centuries. His numbers speak for themselves, but it is his leadership and spirit that made the biggest mark.

Under Kohli’s captaincy and with Shastri as head coach, India reached new heights in Test cricket. The pair became the most successful captain-coach duo in Indian Test history, taking India to the top of the ICC Test rankings and achieving memorable wins both at home and overseas.

Their partnership brought discipline, aggression, and a new fighting spirit to the Indian Test team. Kohli’s love for the red-ball format was always visible in his performances, and it inspired a new generation of cricketers to respect and value Test cricket.

Now, as he steps away from the format he cherished the most, Virat Kohli leaves behind a rich legacy. While he will continue to play in limited-overs formats, his absence in whites will surely be felt. Ravi Shastri’s words confirm that this was not a sudden or emotional decision but one taken after thoughtful reflection — a move by a player who knew he had given his best and was ready to pass the baton.