Sachin Pens Emotional Tribute to Virat Kohli on His Test Retirement

By A Staff Reporter

Mumbai: Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar paid a moving tribute to Virat Kohli following the star batter’s retirement from Test cricket, sharing a deeply personal anecdote that captured the bond between two generations of Indian cricket icons. In a post from his official handle @sachin_rt, Tendulkar reflected on Kohli’s thoughtful gesture during his own farewell Test 12 years ago — an offer to gift him a sacred thread from Kohli’s late father, a moment that Tendulkar described as “too personal” to accept, but one that has stayed with him ever since.

“As you retire from Tests, I'm reminded of your thoughtful gesture 12 years ago, during my last Test... the gesture was heartwarming and has stayed with me ever since,” Tendulkar wrote. “While I may not have a thread to offer in return, please know that you carry my deepest admiration and very best wishes.”

Tendulkar went on to praise Kohli not just for his prolific run-scoring but for his transformative impact on Indian cricket. “Your true legacy, Virat, lies in inspiring countless young cricketers to pick up the sport. What an incredible Test career you have had!”