'A thread from your late father': Tendulkar reveals Kohli's unseen tribute

NEW DELHI: India legend Sachin Tendulkar shared an emotional message for Virat Kohli following the latter’s announcement of his retirement from Test cricket on Monday. Tendulkar took to social media to express his admiration for Kohli, who concluded his illustrious 14-year red-ball career after playing 123 Test matches. Kohli, who made his debut in 2011 against the West Indies, emerged as India’s standout batter following Tendulkar’s retirement in 2013."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," Tendulkar wrote on his social media handle.

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"Your true legacy, Virat, lies in inspiring countless young cricketers to pick up the sport," he said.

"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," he said.

Kohli’s retirement comes just days after Rohit Sharma stepped down from Test cricket, removing two senior batters from selection contention ahead of India’s upcoming tour of England.Kohli amassed 9,230 runs in Tests, including 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries, at an average of 46.85. As captain, he led India in 68 Test matches and remains the country’s most successful skipper with 40 victories.

“As I step away from this format, it’s not easy — but it feels right,” Kohli posted on Instagram. “It’s been 14 years since I first wore the baggy blue in Test cricket. Honestly, I never imagined the journey this format would take me on. It’s tested me, shaped me, and taught me lessons I’ll carry for life.”“I am walking away with a heart full of gratitude — for the game, for the people I shared the field with, and for every single person who made me feel seen along the way,” he wrote. "I will always look back at my test career with a smile. #269, signing off.”

Kohli ends his Test career as India’s fourth-highest run-scorer, behind Tendulkar (15,921), Rahul Dravid (13,265), and Sunil Gavaskar (10,122). He also holds the record for the most double centuries by an Indian in Tests — seven — one more than the legendary Tendulkar.