Sachin Tendulkar pens a note on Virat Kohli’s retirement

Ahead of the five-match Test series in England, legendary batsman Virat Kohli declared his retirement from Test cricket. Since then, the cricket community has honoured him for his incredible 14-year career in the game's longest format. 

When Virat Kohli said goodbye to his legendary Test run on Monday, the 'Master Blaster' recalled a thread that formed a unifying factor between them. He was the heir apparent when Sachin Tendulkar was nearing the conclusion of his illustrious career.

Tendulkar used social media to show his respect for Kohli, who played 123 Test matches before ending his remarkable 14-year red-ball career. After Tendulkar retired in 2013, Kohli, who made his debut against the West Indies in 2011, became India's most impressive batter across formats.

“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,” Sachin wrote on Instagram.

As a teenager, Kohli lost his father, and he has frequently discussed the vacuum it left in his life. Additionally, Kohli has never concealed his admiration for the Master Blaster. After India won the 2011 World Cup, he lifted Tendulkar on his shoulders during a victory lap.

This came after he famously declared, "It's time we carried him on our shoulders, because for 21 years, Sachin Tendulkar carried the burden of the entire nation." 

“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”, Sachin added.

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