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Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has extended heartfelt praise to Indian cricketing legend Virat Kohli following the latter’s retirement from Test cricket, marking the end of a remarkable red-ball journey that spanned over 14 years.
Kohli, 36, brought down the curtain on his red-ball career with an emotional announcement on Instagram, reflecting on a journey that saw him become one of the greatest Test batters of his era.
Following the announcement, Shahid Afridi took to the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to commend Kohli’s impact on the longest format, hailing his passion, professionalism, and competitive spirit that raised the bar in modern Test cricket.
“Congratulations on a remarkable career, Virat Kohli. Your passion, intensity and professionalism set new standards in Test cricket. The purist format will miss your presence and competitive spirit,” Afridi wrote.
Having debuted in 2011, Kohli went on to represent India in 123 Tests, amassing 9,230 runs at an impressive average of over 48, including 30 centuries.
As captain, his legacy is equally distinguished. He led India in 68 Tests from 2014 to 2022, winning 40 matches, making him the most successful Indian Test skipper in history.
In his farewell message, Kohli acknowledged the deep emotional connection he shared with the format, calling it the most testing and transformative phase of his cricketing life.
“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,” he said.
Kohli’s retirement follows closely on the heels of Rohit Sharma’s own Test exit, signalling the end of an era in Indian cricket.
With both senior pros stepping away, the Indian team is now staring at a pivotal leadership transition just weeks ahead of their five-match Test series against England, which begins June 20 at Headingley.
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