Tendulkar recalls thread gesture as Kohli retires
New Delhi, May 12 (UNI) Batting great Sachin Tendulkar on Monday led tributes to Virat Kohli on his retirement from Test cricket, recalling a deeply personal gesture from the former India captain during his own farewell Test in 2013.
"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," Tendulkar posted on X.
"You have given Indian cricket so much more than just runs – you have given it a new generation of passionate fans and players. Your true legacy, Virat, lies in inspiring countless young cricketers to pick up the sport," he added, congratulating Kohli on "a very special Test career."
Legendary batsman Kohli's decision to hang up his boots from the longest format has drawn an outpouring of tributes from across the cricketing world, with former India opener Virender Sehwag also praising the 35-year-old for his passion, intensity, and impact.
"From the time I saw you, I knew that you are special. The intensity that you brought and the sheer passion with which you played Test cricket was a joy to watch. You were a great ambassador of Test cricket and wish you the best of times ahead in One Day cricket," Sehwag posted.
Kohli, who made his Test debut in 2011 against the West Indies, went on to represent India in 123 Test matches, amassing 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85, including 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries. He also captained the side in 68 Tests, winning 40 – the most by any Indian captain.
A fierce competitor and a flag-bearer of India's aggressive brand of Test cricket, Kohli was instrumental in transforming the team's fitness culture and instilling a relentless drive for excellence. Under his leadership, India rose to the top of the ICC Test rankings and reached the finals of the inaugural World Test Championship in 2021.
Kohli's retirement marks the end of a significant chapter in Indian cricket. His contributions, both as a batsman and leader, have left an indelible mark on the sport.
Further tributes are expected from Indian team in the coming days.
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