India is set to face England in a high-stakes five-match Test series starting June 20, but the contest will miss one of its fiercest warriors. So let’s look at the Ben Stokes on Kohli Retirement.
Indian cricket icon Virat Kohli has announced his sudden retirement from Test cricket, sending shockwaves across the cricketing world. Known for his intensity, passion, and unmatched consistency, Kohli leaves behind a monumental legacy in the red-ball format.
England Test captain Ben Stokes was among the first to publicly honour the former Indian skipper, calling him a “pure class” player who defined an era.
Stokes revealed he personally messaged Kohli upon hearing the news.
“I texted him saying it’s going to be a shame not playing against him this time. I love playing against Virat. We’ve always relished the contest because we share the same mindset on the field – it’s a battle,” said Stokes in a video released by ECB (England and Wales Cricket Board.
Stokes while acknowledging Kohli’s legacy also talked about the void Kohli’s absence will leave in the upcoming India-England Test series.
“What India will miss is his fighting spirit on the field, his competitiveness, his desire to win. He’s made No. 18 his own – we might never see it on the back of another Indian shirt. He’s been pure class for such a long time,” said Stokes.
Kohli’s departure from the longest format comes shortly after Rohit Sharma also stepped away from Test cricket, leaving the Indian side in transition. The timing is particularly significant, as India is set to host England for a five-match Test series beginning June 20. Kohli’s absence will leave a massive void both on and off the field.
Despite a rough tour of England in 2014, Kohli bounced back with stellar performances in 2018 and 2021, playing pivotal roles in India’s famous victories at Lord’s and The Oval. He has amassed nearly 2,000 Test runs against England at an average exceeding 42—highlighting his influence in one of cricket’s fiercest rivalries.
Overall, Kohli has amassed a whopping 9230 runs in the longest format of the game, including 30 centuries.
As India turns to the next generation, Shubman Gill is reportedly in line to take over the red-ball captaincy, with Rishabh Pant as his deputy.
DOWNLOAD: STUMPSANDBAILS FANTASY CRICKET APP
DOWNLOAD: DRAGOZ SPORTS FANTASY CRICKET APP
