"When You Are Colouring Every Four Days": Kohli Explains His Decision to Quit Tests

India’s former Test captain Virat Kohli publicly addressed his retirement decision for the first time since announcing it in May. Speaking at a charity event hosted by Yuvraj Singh’s YouWeCan Foundation in London, Kohli delivered a candid statement when asked about leaving the Test format:

“I just coloured my beard two days ago. You know it’s time when you are colouring your beard every four days.”

This lighthearted comment, shared during an event attended by cricket greats including Chris Gayle, Kevin Pietersen, and Ravi Shastri, reflected Kohli’s typical wit and self-awareness. It also confirmed that he is entering a new chapter in his career with grace and humour.

The Context of His Retirement

On May 12, 2025, Kohli announced his retirement from Test cricket at the age of 36. His decision came just days after fellow Indian captain Rohit Sharma made a similar exit from the longest format. Kohli played 123 Tests, scoring 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85. His remarkable career included 30 centuries and 7 double centuries, helping India rise to the top in both home and overseas conditions.

Reflecting on His Career and Relationships

During the event, Kohli also shared his appreciation for Ravi Shastri, under whose mentorship he flourished in red-ball cricket. “If I wasn’t working with him... what happened in Test cricket wouldn’t have been possible.” He fondly remembered the early years of his international career and the camaraderie he shared with players like Yuvraj Singh, Harbhajan Singh, and Zaheer Khan, describing those days as “fun times off the field.”

Retirement: A Strategic Shift to Other Formats

Kohli’s decision to step away from Tests follows his earlier retirement from T20 Internationals after India’s triumphant T20 World Cup campaign in 2024. He remains committed to playing One Day Internationals (ODIs) and is expected to continue representing Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the Indian Premier League. His leadership and performances were instrumental in RCB’s maiden IPL title win earlier this year.

Fans React and Look Ahead

Kohli’s retirement from Test cricket sparked an emotional response from fans and cricket enthusiasts across the world. Many saw his exit, along with Rohit Sharma’s, as the official end of an era in Indian cricket. Hashtags like #EndofanEra trended widely, and social media was flooded with tributes. Fans called him a “gladiator” and the “heart and soul” of Test cricket, highlighting the void his departure leaves.

India is scheduled to tour England for a five-Test series beginning June 20, 2025. Kohli’s absence paves the way for a new chapter under Shubman Gill, who has been named the new Test captain. All eyes will be on the young leader as he guides a transitioning Indian squad through iconic venues like Edgbaston, Headingley, and Lord’s.