Shahid Afridi pays tribute to Virat Kohli after Test retirement

Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has paid tribute to Virat Kohli following the Indian batter's announcement to retire from Test cricket. Afridi lauded Kohli's contribution to the longest format, calling his career "remarkable" and praising the standards he set during his time.

Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Afridi wrote, "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."

Virat Kohli, 35, announced his retirement from Test cricket through an emotional Instagram post, drawing curtains on a red-ball career that spanned over 14 years. Kohli represented India in 123 Test matches, scoring 9,230 runs at an average of over 48, including 30 centuries. He captained India in 68 matches between 2014 and 2022, leading the team to 40 victories and becoming the most successful Test captain in India's history.

In his statement, Kohli wrote, "When I first started playing Test cricket for India, I never thought I would be able to witness the journey that unfolded before me. The format tested me and shaped me in ways nothing else could. It taught me discipline, patience, and resilience. Playing in whites was always a special feeling, those silent battles, long days on the field, and moments that never made the highlights but stayed etched in the heart."

He added, "This decision wasn't easy, but it feels right. I've given everything to Test cricket, and it has given me back more than I ever imagined. I leave with immense gratitude for the game, my teammates, and every supporter who stood by me. I will always look back on my test career with pride and a smile."

Kohli's retirement comes just days after Rohit Sharma also stepped away from Test cricket, marking the end of an era in Indian cricket. With both senior players gone, India now faces a leadership gap ahead of the upcoming five-match Test series against England starting June 20.

While Kohli had already retired from T20 internationals in 2024, he has confirmed that he will continue to play in One Day Internationals.