In a moment that stunned the cricketing world Virat Kohli announced his retirement from Test cricket around noon on May 12 leaving fans and pundits in disbelief. Known as the ldquorun machinerdquo Kohli seemed to have a few more chapters left in red-ball cricket but his sudden call marked the end of an era. Now Royal Challengers Bengaluru mentor Dinesh Karthik has offered a rare insight into the former captainrsquos state of mind following his departure from the longest format. Locker Room Shock Kohli Kept It Quiet Speaking to broadcasters ahead of RCBrsquos IPL clash against SunRisers Hyderabad in Lucknow Karthik admitted that Kohlirsquos retirement caught even his teammates off guard. ldquoIt came as a shock to the outside world so we were just observing what Virat was up tordquo Karthik said. ldquoWe were taken abackmdashlsquoOh this is happening.rsquo He kept it close to his chest.rdquo Family First Cricket Always According to Karthik Kohlirsquos decision wasnrsquot a reaction to pressure or form but a thoughtful move toward personal balance. ldquoHe is at his happiest nowmdashhes enjoying the sport and genuinely wants to spend more time with his familyrdquo said Karthik. ldquoItrsquos a personal decision and we all respect it.rdquo Also ReadIPL 2025 Former India star urges RCB players to win title for Virat Kohli A Glorious Red-Ball Legacy Kohli finishes his Test career with 9230 runs in 123 matches and a staggering 40 wins as captain in 68 games. His leadership transformed Indiarsquos Test fortunes making him one of the most successful captains in Indian cricket history. Looking Ahead One Last Dance in 2027 While the whites are now behind him Kohli is far from done. He remains committed to ODIs and is eyeing one final crowning momentmdashlifting the ICC ODI World Cup in 2027. Along with Rohit Sharma who also stepped down from T20s last year Kohlirsquos journey continuesmdashjust with a sharper focus and a fuller life.