Sachin Tendulkar recalls Virat Kohli's 'thoughtful gesture' as star batter retires from Tests

In a long social media post, Tendulkar shared, "As you retire from Tests, I'm reminded of your thoughtful gesture 12 years ago, during my last Test. You offered to gift me a thread from your late father. It was something too personal for me to accept, but the gesture was heartwarming and has stayed with me ever since.

"While I may not have a thread to offer in return, please know that you carry my deepest admiration and very best wishes."

"Your true legacy, Virat, lies in inspiring countless young cricketers to pick up the sport. What an incredible Test career you have had! You have given Indian cricket so much more than just runs – you have given it a new generation of passionate fans and players. Congratulations on a very special Test career," the cricket legend wrote congratulating Kohli, who was often compared to Tendulkar over the years.

Virat Kohli announces retirement

Kohli on Monday announced his retirement from Test cricket, ending his illustrious journey in red ball cricket.

Kohli announced his retirement in an Instagram post.

In a long note, Kohli wrote, "It’s been 14 years since I first wore the baggy blue in Test cricket. Honestly, I never imagined the journey this format would take me on. It’s tested me, shaped me, and taught me lessons I’ll carry for life.

"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 former India captain added, "As I step away from this format, it’s not easy — but it feels right. I’ve given it everything I had, and it’s given me back so much more than I could’ve hoped for.

"I’m walking away with a heart full of gratitude — for the game, for the people I shared the field with, and for every single person who made me feel seen along the way."

"I’ll always look back at my Test career with a smile."

The 36-year-old had earlier expressed to the Indian cricket board BCCI his wish to retire from Tests.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) had appealed to Kohli to reconsider his decision in the run-up to the England tour.

Kohli, who retired from T20Is in 2024, will continue to play in One Day Internationals.