Srinagar: Cricket World was left stunned as India superstar cricketer Virat Kohli announced his retirement from Test Cricket.
The likes of Sachin Tendulkar, Gautam Gambhir, Yuvraj Singh, Cheteshwar Pujara, Jasprit Bumrah, and more reacted to the shock development of Kohli calling time on his Test career.
Earlier, Virat Kohli took to Instagram to let the world know about his decision ahead of the crucial England tour.
Taking to Instagram, Kohli wrote, “It’s been 14 years since I first wore the baggy blue in Test cricket. Honestly, I never imagined the journey this format would take me on. It’s tested me, shaped me, and taught me lessons I’ll carry for life.”
“There’s something deeply personal about playing in whites. The quiet grind, the long days, the small moments that no one sees but that stay with you forever. As I step away from this format, it’s not easy — but it feels right. I’ve given it everything I had, and it’s given me back so much more than I could’ve hoped for,” he added.
In his statement, he further explained that he is walking away with a heart full of gratitude.
“I’m walking away with a heart full of gratitude — for the game, for the people I shared the field with, and for every single person who made me feel seen along the way. I’ll always look back at my Test career with a smile. #269, signing off,” he wrote.
Virat Kohli played 123 Tests for India, scoring 9230 runs at an average of 46.85. The batter finishes his Test career as the fourth-highest run-scorer for India. He also led the team in 68 Tests.
Kohli also oversaw India’s Border-Gavaskar Trophy win in 2018-19. He made India a formidable force at home under his leadership. He led India to wins over South Africa, England and Australia on home soil.
He eventually gave up the Test captaincy in 2022 after India’s defeat against South Africa.
“As you retire from Tests, I’m reminded of your thoughtful gesture 12 years ago, during my last Test. You offered to gift me a thread from your late father. It was something too personal for me to accept, but the gesture was heartwarming and has stayed with me ever since. While I may not have a thread to offer in return, please know that you carry my deepest admiration and very best wishes. Your true legacy, Virat Kohli, lies in inspiring countless young cricketers to pick up the sport. What an incredible Test career you have had! You have given Indian cricket so much more than just runs – you have given it a new generation of passionate fans and players. Congratulations on a very special Test career,” Sachin Tendulkar said in a social media post for Kohli.
Taking to X, Gambhir said, “A man with lion’s passion. Will miss u cheeks.”
“From making my Test debut under your captaincy to reaching new heights together for our country, your passion and energy will be missed but the legacy you leave behind remains unmatched. Congratulations on a remarkable journey in whites @virat.kohli,” wrote emotional Jasprit Bumrah.
Former Cricketer Yuvraj Singh also said goodbye to King.
, “Test cricket brought out the fighter in you and you gave it everything! You played the way greats do, with hunger in your heart, fire in your belly and pride in every stride. Proud of what you’ve done in whites. Go well King Kohli!,” Yuvraj Singj posted.
Taking to Instagram, he says, Cheteshwar Pujara said, “Congratulations, Virat, on a Test career you can be incredibly proud of! Your passion for the format was inspiring…and it was an honour to share the crease with you over the years, in the heat of many-a-battle, grinding it out for the country! Will cherish the several memories and partnerships together.”
