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
Reader Comments
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 😢
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!
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
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. ðŸ
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.
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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