Cricket icon Virat Kohli recently opened up about his decision to retire from Test cricket, offering a humorous reason and sharing insights into his illustrious career and life off the pitch.
Kohli’s Test swansong: A new chapter begins
Virat Kohli, one of India’s most celebrated cricketers, recently announced his retirement from Test cricket, concluding a remarkable 14-year journey in the longest format of the game. During his tenure, Kohli amassed an impressive 9230 runs in 123 matches, boasting an average of 46.85. This incredible tally places him fourth on India’s all-time Test run-scorers list, a testament to his consistent brilliance.
At a recent event in London, hosted by former India cricketer Yuvraj Singh to support the YouWeCan Foundation, Kohli was asked how much he was missed on the field. With a smile, he candidly replied, “I just coloured my beard two days ago. You know it’s time when you are colouring your beard every four days.” This light-hearted remark offered a glimpse into the personal considerations behind his significant career decision.
The unwavering support of Ravi Shastri
A bond built on trust and clarity
Kohli also took the opportunity to heap praise on former India coach Ravi Shastri, acknowledging his profound impact on his Test career. He stated that without Shastri’s guidance, his achievements in Test cricket would not have been possible.
Kohli emphasized the unique clarity they shared, which he believes is crucial for any cricketer’s growth. He credited Shastri for consistently backing him, even taking the brunt of criticism in press conferences. This steadfast support, Kohli noted, made a significant difference in his journey, earning Shastri his enduring respect and regard.
From pitch to court: A Wimbledon appearance
Beyond the cricket field, Kohli has been enjoying his time, recently spotted attending the prestigious Wimbledon tennis championships with his wife, Anushka Sharma. This marked their return to the event since their last visit in 2015.
Speaking to tennis legend Vijay Amritraj for Star Sports, Kohli shared their long-standing desire to return. “2015 was our first experience of being at the Centre Court. We always planned to come back, but could not make it happen for various reasons. But now we have a bit of time on our hands. So here we are again,” he remarked, clearly enjoying the break.
Comparing pressure: Cricket vs. tennis
Kohli also drew an interesting parallel between the pressure faced by elite cricketers and tennis players. He suggested that while the experience in high-pressure situations can be similar, the intensity in tennis majors from the quarterfinals onwards might rival the “intimidation factor” of a cricket World Cup match.
He specifically mentioned the “legs shivering” pressure of an India-Pakistan World Cup game or a semifinal/final. Kohli expressed immense respect for tennis players, praising their composure, physical fitness, and mental toughness required to perform at such an elite level under immense scrutiny.
- Virat Kohli retired from Test cricket after a 14-year career, humorously citing the need to color his beard as a sign it was “time.”
- He credited former coach Ravi Shastri as a pivotal figure in his Test success, highlighting Shastri’s clarity and unwavering support.
- Kohli recently attended Wimbledon with his wife, Anushka Sharma, for the first time since 2015.
- He compared the intense pressure of tennis major quarterfinals to an India-Pakistan World Cup match, expressing admiration for tennis players’ composure.
Kohli’s candid reflections provide a fascinating look into the mind of a cricketing legend, both on and off the field, as he embarks on a new phase of his career and life.
