Former India captain Virat Kohli has firmly ruled out any possibility of returning to Test cricket, putting an end to speculation about a comeback in the longest format of the game.
Kohli made the remark during an event in Delhi on Sunday, where he attended the global premiere of a new shoe launched under his One8 brand. The event was held at Yashobhoomi and attracted a large crowd of fans. Punjabi singer Karan Aujla was also among the key attractions.
The star batter retired from Test cricket in May 2025 ahead of India’s tour of England, a decision that surprised many fans and former cricketers. Since then, several experts have urged him to reconsider and return to the format in which he enjoyed tremendous success.
During the event, host Danish Sait referred to the pricing of Kohli’s newly launched red shoe, which costs ₹9,230—the same number as Kohli’s career Test runs. He jokingly asked whether the cricketer would return to Test cricket and score more runs so the shoe could be sold at a higher price.
Kohli’s response was direct and decisive. “I would rather undersell, I am done with it (Tests),” he said, drawing cheers from the audience. The comment quickly went viral on social media and appears to shut the door on any future return to India’s Test squad.
The 37-year-old is currently recovering from a hamstring injury sustained during the recently concluded Indian Premier League. The injury forced him to miss India’s ODI series against Afghanistan, which the hosts won 3-0.
With his Test career now firmly behind him, Kohli’s focus is expected to remain on limited-overs cricket, particularly India’s preparations for the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup. His latest remarks suggest he is fully at peace with his decision to step away from the red-ball format after a distinguished Test career.
