End of an Era : Sachin, Ashwin, Sidhu & Foreign Media React to Virat Kohli’s Test Retirement - A Tribute Fit for a Legend

On May 12, 2025, Legend cricketer Virat Kohli announced his retirement from Test cricket where he ended his 14-year journey that began in 2011. Kohli shared an emotional Instagram post, saying, “It’s not easy, but it feels right.” He leaves behind a legacy of 9,230 runs in 123 Tests, with 30 centuries and an average of 48.7, making him India’s fourth-highest run-scorer in the format. 

Virat is India’s most successful Test captain who has 40 wins in 68 matches, and he transformed Indian cricket with his aggressive style and passion for the game.

When Virat announced his retirement from an instagram post, many players and celebrities congratulated him on his beautiful test cricket journey. In this article, we have shared all those wishes by different public figures. So let's begin.

Sachin Tendulkar’s Heartfelt Tribute

Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar shared a very emotional story, recalling a moment from his own retirement in 2013. During his final Test, when Virat was young, he offered him a thread from his late father, a gesture Sachin found deeply moving. “Your true legacy, Virat, lies in inspiring countless young cricketers,” Tendulkar wrote on his social media, praising Kohli’s impact on the sport.

Ashwin and Teammates Reflect

Ravichandran Ashwin, who retired from international cricket in December 2024, also paid tribute. They both played alongside for 14 years. Ashwin called him a “legend of Indian cricket” on his social media handles highlighting their shared moments on the field. Other teammates, like Jasprit Bumrah and Rishabh Pant, expressed similar sentiments, with Bumrah calling Kohli’s passion “inspiring.”

Navjot Sidhu’s Poetic Praise

Former cricketer Navjot Sidhu described Kohli as “the greatest Indian cricketer of all time.” He wrote, “Kahaan parre ho chakker mein, koi nahin hai takker mein,” celebrating Kohli’s unmatched dominance and flair. Sidhu’s words captured the emotions of millions of fans who saw Kohli as a once-in-a-generation player.

Global Media and Stars React

Foreign media, like The New York Times, stated Kohli as “the world’s most famous cricketer,” noting his 390 million social media followers and competitiveness. AB de Villiers, Kohli’s close friend, called him a “true legend,” while even former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak expressed sadness over Kohli’s exit. 

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