India’s Jasprit Bumrah posted a touching tribute to Virat Kohli after Kohli announced his retirement from red-ball cricket. On Instagram, Bumrah shared some pictures of their time together, including a shot from his Test debut when Kohli was captain. He mentioned that Kohli leaves behind a legacy that’s hard to match and said he would miss his passion and energy on the field.
One picture showed Bumrah receiving his debut cap from Kohli in 2018. Their teamwork was key to India’s victories in challenging conditions in places like South Africa, England, and especially Australia. As Kohli’s time in Test cricket wound down, Bumrah emerged as a key player under Rohit Sharma’s leadership.
Kohli wraps up his Test career after 14 years, having played 123 matches, scored 9,230 runs with an average of 46.85, including 30 centuries and 31 fifties. He captained India in 68 Tests, the most by any Indian, leading the team to 40 wins, which is also a record.
In his retirement post, Kohli reflected, “It’s been 14 years since I first wore the baggy blue in Test cricket. I never thought this format would take me on such a journey. It has tested me and taught me lessons that I’ll carry for life. There’s something very personal about playing in whites—the quiet grind, the long days, and those small moments that stay with you forever.
He added, Stepping away from this format isn’t easy, but it feels right. I’ve given all I had, and the game has given me so much more. I’m leaving with a heart full of gratitude for the game, the people I played with, and everyone who supported me. I’ll look back on my Test career with a smile.
His account went on: Stepping out of this mould is not an easy choice, but it feels right. I had given my all, and the game has given me so much more. I am walking away with a heart filled with gratitude for the game, for my teammates, and for the benefactors who stood behind me. I will reminisce about my Test career with a smile on my face.
