Virat Kohli has officially retired from Test cricket at the age of 36. The announcement, made via an emotional Instagram post, comes just days ahead of India’s five-match Test series in England starting June 20, 2025. Kohli expressed heartfelt gratitude for his journey, stating, “I’ve given everything I had,” as he reflected on his deep bond with Test cricket.
This marks a major moment in Indian cricket, following closely on the heels of Rohit Sharma’s retirement. Kohli’s departure leaves a gap in leadership and experience as the team prepares for the England series.
Legacy and Achievements
Kohli is widely regarded as one of the greatest ambassadors of Test cricket. As captain, he played a key role in ending India’s overseas drought and brought unmatched intensity and discipline to the longest format. His retirement is being hailed as the end of an era, with tributes pouring in from icons like Sachin Tendulkar and Gautam Gambhir.
Financial Powerhouse
According to Times Now, Kohli’s net worth stands at ₹1,050 crore, placing him among the world’s wealthiest athletes. His wife, actress Anushka Sharma, has a net worth of ₹255 crore, bringing their combined wealth to over ₹1,250 crore. Their income sources include brand endorsements, business ventures, and investments.
IPL and BCCI Earnings
Kohli earns ₹15 lakh per Test, ₹6 lakh per ODI, and ₹3 lakh per T20I from match fees, along with a ₹7 crore annual BCCI A+ contract. Since 2008, he has played for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the IPL. His IPL income has increased dramatically—from ₹12 lakh in 2008 to ₹21 crore per season as of 2025, totaling ₹212.44 crore.
Despite stepping down as RCB captain in 2021, he remains their key player.
Endorsements and Brand Deals
Kohli is one of the most marketable athletes globally, endorsing over 30 brands. Major deals include:
- MRF Tyres: ₹100 crore (8-year bat deal)
- Puma: ₹110 crore (8-year contract)
- Audi India: ₹5 crore
He also endorses Nestlé, Pepsi, Myntra, Reebok, Boost, and Head & Shoulders, among others. These endorsements form a major part of his total income, as per StockGro and Forbes India.
Entrepreneurship and Investments
Kohli’s business ventures include:
- One8 (with Puma): Lifestyle products and café chain
- WROGN: Youth fashion label
- Chisel Fitness: Gym chain with a ₹90 crore investment
- Nueva: Upscale restaurant in Delhi
He also owns stakes in sports teams such as FC Goa (ISL), UAE Royals (tennis), and Bengaluru Yodhas (wrestling). In the startup space, he has invested in:
- Blue Tribe (plant-based meat, with Anushka Sharma)
- Rage Coffee
- Digit Insurance
- Sport Convo (UK-based sports social network)
Anushka Sharma’s Career and Wealth
Anushka Sharma contributes significantly to their financial portfolio. Her production house, Clean Slate Filmz, along with her acting career and endorsements, adds to her ₹255 crore net worth.
Luxury Residences and Lifestyle
The couple owns two lavish homes:
- Gurgaon mansion: 10,000 sq. ft., worth ₹80 crore, with a private gallery, pool, and bar
- Mumbai apartment: 7,000 sq. ft., sea-facing, valued at ₹34 crore
Their lifestyle also includes a premium car collection—Audi, Mercedes, and Bentley.
Philanthropy and Social Impact
Despite immense wealth and fame, Kohli remains committed to social causes. His Virat Kohli Foundation (VKF), launched in 2013, supports underprivileged athletes and promotes grassroots sports, while also working in healthcare and education.
A Celebrated Journey
Virat Kohli’s retirement from Test cricket signifies not only the end of an exceptional playing chapter but also the continuation of his journey as a global icon, entrepreneur, and philanthropist.
