Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi (proper) and Indian batting icon Virat Kohli. — Reuters/Instagram/File
Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has paid tribute to Virat Kohli following the Indian batting icon’s retirement from Take a look at cricket, hailing his contribution to the sport’s longest format.
“The purist format will miss your presence and competitive spirit,” he added.
Afridi’s message got here in response to Kohli’s announcement to step away from Take a look at cricket. The 36-year-old Indian batter, who debuted in 2011, ends his red-ball profession with 9,230 runs and 30 centuries in 123 matches, averaging 46.85.
Kohli confirmed the choice through Instagram, calling Take a look at cricket a format that examined and formed him. “It’s not easy — but it feels right,” he wrote. “There’s something deeply personal about playing in whites. The quiet grind, the long days, the small moments that no one sees but that stay with you forever.”
The Indian stalwart’s closing Take a look at was in opposition to Australia in January, marking the tip of a glittering profession during which he additionally turned India’s most profitable Take a look at captain.
Kohli led his aspect in 68 matches, profitable 40, shedding simply 17, and taking the workforce to the finals of the 2021 and 2023 World Take a look at Championships.
India’s subsequent Take a look at project is a five-match sequence in opposition to England starting June 20.
