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Former Team India opener Sachin Tendulkar has reacted to Virat Kohli’s Test retirement. The star player declared his retirement from Tests on May 12 and took the cricketing world by storm. Kohli’s retirement is currently a hot-topic as Team India supporters are currently concerned how the side will fill the boots of the legendary batter who served India efficiently for 14 years in cricket’s oldest format. Team India supporters are in shock as Kohli’s retirement has come at a time when India have an upcoming five-match Test assignment in England against Ben Stokes and his men.
Amidst these developments, Tendulkar also reacted to Kohli’s decision and posted a long note on social media. The 52-year-old took to his Instagram handle and posted a Kohli's picture with a caption that read, “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.”
He also added, “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.”
Virat Kohli replaced Sachin Tendulkar in number four spot for India in Tests
Sachin Tendulkar bid adieu to Test cricket in November 2013 after playing for India for 24 years. Following the Mumbai-born legend’s retirement, Kohli got the responsibility as number four batter for India. Batting in the important position, Kohli amassed 7564 runs with 26 hundreds and 21 fifties in 160 innings of 98 matches.
Both Tendulkar and Kohli played Test cricket together for India from 2011 to 2013. After Sachin played his last Test against West Indies at the Wankhede Stadium in November 2013, Virat and skipper MS Dhoni lifted the legend for a victory lap.