Virat Kohli Bids Farewell to Test Cricket: Celebrities Celebrate His Legacy
Virat Kohli's Retirement Announcement
New Delhi: Following his announcement of retirement from Test cricket, Virat Kohli received heartfelt tributes from various Bollywood stars including Vicky Kaushal, Ranveer Singh, Farhan Akhtar, and Abhishek Banerjee, who expressed their appreciation for his remarkable contributions to the sport.
At 36 years old, Kohli concluded his Test career with an impressive tally of 9,230 runs across 123 matches, achieving 30 centuries with an average of 46.85.
Anushka Sharma, Kohli's wife, shared her thoughts on Instagram, stating that he had 'earned every bit of this goodbye.'
She reflected on the emotional journey, saying, 'They’ll discuss the records and milestones, but I’ll remember the tears you never showed, the battles unseen, and the unwavering love you gave to this format.'
Sharma continued, 'I know how much this journey cost you. After each Test series, you returned a bit wiser and humbler, and witnessing your evolution has been a privilege.'
Celebrity Tributes Pour In
Kaushal praised Kohli for his unique approach to the game, stating that his style will be greatly missed.
"Congratulations on an incredibly inspirational Test career and thank you for the memories, Champ! @virat.kohli," he shared on his Instagram Stories.
Kohli's Legacy in Test Cricket
Since his debut in 2011, Kohli led India to the top of the Test rankings and achieved a historic series victory in Australia during the 2018-19 season.
In his retirement announcement on Instagram, Kohli reflected on his 14-year journey in Test cricket, stating, "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... 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."
Reactions from Fans and Celebrities
The comments section of Kohli's retirement post was filled with messages from fans and celebrities alike. Ranveer Singh remarked, "One in a Billion! Go well, King!"
Farhan Akhtar expressed his gratitude, saying, "Congratulations on an incredible Test career and thanks for all the great memories."
Aparshakti Khurana shared his joy at witnessing Kohli's journey, stating, "Rabbb Charhdiyaaan Kalaan ich rakhey! Always!"
Abhishek Banerjee thanked Kohli for making every Indian proud, while Neha Dhupia noted that his legacy will 'never end in our hearts.'
Suniel Shetty praised Kohli for living cricket passionately, stating, "You Honoured it, breathed fire, wore your heart on your sleeve and your passion like armour. The roar. The grit. The obsession. The Heart. Take a bow, champ. The red-ball rests, but your legacy races on."
Kohli's Future in Cricket
Actor Prakash Raj also expressed his gratitude, thanking Kohli for all the inspiring moments he provided throughout his career.
Kohli will now focus solely on One Day Internationals, having already stepped back from T20 Internationals last year.