Virat Kohli’s Test retirement has caught everyone by surprise -- not just the fans but also public figures who have followed his journey. One such voice is Shashi Tharoor -- a Member of Parliament and longtime cricket lover -- who left a heartfelt tribute to the cricketing icon.
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In his note, Tharoor described Kohli as “immortal” and admitted he was deeply saddened by the abrupt nature of the announcement. What stood out most was his regret that Kohli didn’t get the farewell he deserved -- a final match in front of home fans.
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What did Shashi Tharoor say about Virat Kohli’s retirement?
Recalling the only time he met Kohli early in his career, Tharoor said it was clear even then that the young player was destined for greatness. But more than his performances in shorter formats -- it was Kohli's grit and elegance in Tests that Tharoor most admired.
“The only time I met the immortal @imVkohli face-to-face, early in his career, when he was well on his way to becoming the legend we have all admired. I’ve watched him bat in various formats and admired him most in Tests. I’m truly sad to see him go so early, so unexpectedly, without even the joy of a farewell Test match at home. Why, Virat? We all still need you!” Tharoor wrote on X.
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Kohli retires as one of India’s greatest red-ball cricketers -- with 9,230 runs in 123 Tests at an average of 46.85. He has hit 30 centuries and seven double hundreds in the format. As captain, he led India to 40 wins in 68 Tests -- the most by any Indian skipper.
More: Kohli’s test retirement: Report points to unkept promise by BCCI
What's next for Indian cricket?
Kohli’s decision came just days after Rohit Sharma also stepped away from Tests -- ending a defining era for Indian cricket. India is gearing up for a new World Test Championship cycle beginning June 20 in England.
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