10 Major Cricket Stars, Including Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Steve Smith, Who Have Announced Their Retirement in 2025

Introduction

Cricket, a sport that unites millions around the world, has witnessed countless legends who have left an indelible mark on the game. In 2025, some of the biggest names in cricket, including Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Steve Smith, announced their retirements, marking the end of an era. These players have been the pillars of modern cricket, contributing immensely to their respective teams and to the sport as a whole. In this blog, we take a closer look at the cricketers who have decided to hang up their boots in 2025.

1. Virat Kohli: The King Bids Goodbye

Virat Kohli, one of the most iconic cricketers of all time, has made the decision to retire in 2025. Known for his aggressive batting style, Kohli has been a force to be reckoned with across all formats of the game. From his early days as a fearless young batter to becoming one of the best in the world, Kohli’s legacy is unquestionable.

• Career Highlights:

  • Over 70 international centuries.

  • Numerous records in limited-overs cricket.

  • Led India to many victories as a captain.

Kohli’s retirement marks the end of an era for Indian cricket, and fans will cherish the memories of his stellar performances. His leadership, consistency, and passion have set new benchmarks in the cricket world.

2. Rohit Sharma: The Master of Big Scores

Rohit Sharma, known for his elegant stroke play and ability to score big centuries, also announced his retirement in 2025. With three double centuries in One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and multiple ICC titles under his belt, Rohit’s contributions to Indian cricket are unparalleled.

• Career Achievements:

  • Three double centuries in ODIs, an unprecedented feat.

  • Multiple ICC trophies, including the 2013 Champions Trophy and 2018 Asia Cup.

  • Consistent performer in all formats of the game.

Rohit’s leadership skills and ability to deliver in high-pressure situations have earned him a place among the greats. His retirement will undoubtedly leave a significant void in Indian cricket.

3. Steve Smith: The Australian Genius

Steve Smith, often considered one of the best Test batsmen of his generation, shocked the cricket world with his decision to retire in 2025. Known for his unorthodox batting technique and ability to score big in Tests, Smith has been a cornerstone of Australian cricket for over a decade.

• Key Milestones:

  • A stellar average of over 60 in Test cricket.

  • Led Australia to multiple series wins, including the 2021 Ashes series.

  • Renowned for his consistency and adaptability in difficult conditions.

Steve Smith’s retirement marks the end of an era for Australian cricket, and his impact on the game will be remembered for years to come.

4. Joe Root: England’s Steady Hand

Joe Root, one of England’s most consistent batsmen, has decided to retire in 2025. His calm demeanor and solid technique have made him a key figure in the English cricket team for many years. Root’s ability to anchor innings and score runs in all conditions has made him one of the best batsmen of his era.

• Career Milestones:

  • Over 8,000 runs in Test cricket.

  • A pivotal player in England’s 2019 World Cup-winning squad.

  • Consistent performer in both domestic and international cricket.

Root’s retirement will leave a significant gap in English cricket, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.

5. David Warner: The Explosive Opener

David Warner, known for his aggressive batting style and destructive power in limited-overs cricket, has also announced his retirement in 2025. Warner has been a mainstay in Australian cricket, especially in T20s and ODIs, where his aggressive approach at the top of the order has been a game-changer.

• Notable Achievements:

  • Over 40 centuries in international cricket.

  • Key player in Australia’s 2015 World Cup-winning team.

  • Consistent opener in all formats.

Warner’s retirement marks the end of an era for Australian cricket’s explosive batting lineup.

6. AB de Villiers: The Mr. 360° of Cricket

AB de Villiers, the South African legend known for his incredible range of shots, has retired in 2025. Often referred to as "Mr. 360°" for his ability to play shots all around the ground, de Villiers has been one of the most exciting cricketers to watch.

• Career Highlights:

  • Over 20,000 international runs.

  • A versatile player in all formats.

  • Known for his match-winning performances in T20 leagues globally.

AB de Villiers’ retirement is a major loss to cricket, but his legacy as one of the most innovative cricketers will live on.

7. Kane Williamson: New Zealand’s Reliable Captain

Kane Williamson, New Zealand’s calm and composed captain, announced his retirement in 2025. Known for his graceful batting and leadership, Williamson has been one of the most reliable batsmen in modern cricket. His cool-headed approach has been instrumental in leading New Zealand to success in international cricket.

• Notable Achievements:

  • Led New Zealand to the 2019 World Cup final.

  • Consistently scored runs across formats.

  • Known for his leadership qualities and sportsmanship.

Williamson’s retirement leaves a significant leadership void in New Zealand cricket.

8. Shakib Al Hasan: Bangladesh’s All-Rounder

Shakib Al Hasan, Bangladesh’s premier all-rounder, has decided to retire in 2025. With his ability to turn matches with both bat and ball, Shakib has been one of the most important players for Bangladesh in international cricket.

• Key Milestones:

  • Over 10,000 runs and 500 wickets in international cricket.

  • Consistently performed for Bangladesh in all formats.

  • One of the few players to excel in all aspects of the game.

Shakib’s retirement marks the end of an era for Bangladesh cricket, and his contributions to the team will be sorely missed.

9. Chris Gayle: The Universe Boss

Chris Gayle, the West Indies' explosive batsman, announced his retirement in 2025. Known for his towering sixes and aggressive batting, Gayle has been one of the most entertaining players in the world