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Key Points

Former UK PM Rishi Sunak joined global tributes to Virat Kohli after his Test retirement, calling him a "legend of the game." Kohli’s 9,230 Test runs and fiery England rivalry, including his iconic 2018 Edgbaston century, defined his career. Sunak’s praise highlights Kohli’s influence beyond India, resonating even in cricketing rival nations. The batting icon’s intensity and leadership reshaped modern Test cricket’s appeal.

Key Points: Rishi Sunak Hails Virat Kohli as Test Cricket Legend After Retirement

  • Sunak honors Kohli’s batting mastery and Test cricket passion
  • Kohli retires with 9,230 runs and 30 Test centuries
  • His Edgbaston 2018 ton revived his England legacy
  • Leaves behind a transformative impact on Indian cricket
2 min read

A legend of the game: Former UK PM Sunak pays tribute to Virat Kohli after Test retirement

Former UK PM Rishi Sunak joins global tributes to Virat Kohli, praising his impact on Test cricket and fierce England rivalry.

"Sad we won't get to see @imVkohli one last time this summer. He has been a legend of the game. – Rishi Sunak"

London, May 12

As the cricketing world comes to terms with the end of an era following Virat Kohli's retirement from Test cricket, tributes have poured in from across the globe, not just from players, pundits and fans, but even from the corridors of political power.

Among the many voices acknowledging Kohli's immense contribution to the game was former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who took to X to express his admiration for the Indian cricketing icon.

"Sad we won't get to see @imVkohli one last time this summer. He has been a legend of the game: a superb batsman, an astute captain and a formidable competitor who always understood the true value of Test cricket," Sunak said.

https://x.com/RishiSunak/status/1921883388446691681

Kohli, who announced his retirement from the longest format on Monday, has enjoyed a storied Test career spanning over a decade. With 9,230 runs in 123 matches, including 30 centuries, the Delhi-born cricketer not only redefined fitness and intensity in Indian cricket but also reignited passion for Test cricket in an era increasingly dominated by white-ball formats.

Sunak's message reflects the deep impact Kohli has had, not just in India but also in England, a country where he shared an intense and memorable on-field rivalry with the likes of James Anderson and Stuart Broad. His gritty hundred at Edgbaston in 2018 remains one of his most celebrated innings and was widely credited with changing his fortunes in English conditions.

Known for his aggression, charisma, and ability to lead by example, Kohli leaves behind a legacy that is etched into the history of Indian and world cricket.

Virat will not play any part in the upcoming England series, which is scheduled from June 20.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rahul P.
What a legend! 🇮🇳 Kohli brought so much passion to Test cricket when everyone was going gaga over T20s. His 2018 England tour was pure magic - that Edgbaston century against Anderson was goosebumps material. Sad we won't see him in whites again 😢
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Priya K.
Interesting to see Rishi Sunak paying tribute - shows how Kohli transcended borders. But honestly, I wish our own PM would acknowledge sporting legends more often. Sports unites India more than politics ever can!
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Amit S.
King Kohli's retirement marks the end of an era. 30 Test centuries is no joke! But I'm happy he's going out on his own terms. Now we'll have to find new heroes to carry forward his aggressive brand of cricket. #ThankYouVirat
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Sanjana M.
As much as I admire Kohli, I wish he'd played one last series in England. That would have been a perfect farewell. Still, what a career! From brash youngster to mature legend - his journey inspired millions of us. 🏏
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Vikram J.
Sunak's tweet shows how cricket connects India and UK beyond politics. Kohli was the perfect ambassador - fierce competitor but always respected the game's spirit. His legacy will inspire generations of Indian cricketers to come.
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Neha R.
Emotional day for cricket lovers 😭 Kohli made Test cricket exciting again with his intensity. Remember how he would celebrate every wicket like it was his first? That passion was infectious! Hope BCCI organizes a proper farewell match.

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