Virat Kohli’s retirement from Test cricket has sent waves across the cricketing world, as fans and former players react to the iconic batter stepping away while still at the top of his game. His childhood coach, Rajkumar Sharma, has praised the timing of Kohli’s decision, calling it a powerful message for the next generation of athletes.

A Retirement That Sets a Benchmark

Kohli announced his decision via social media, stating personal reflections behind ending his career in the red-ball format. The former Indian captain leaves behind an impressive Test legacy: 9,230 runs in 123 matches, including 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries, with an average of 46.85.

Rajkumar Sharma highlighted how rare it is for Indian cricketers to retire on such a positive note. “He has set an example by walking out on a high,” Sharma said in a PTI interview. “Many players stay longer than needed, but Virat had enough cricket left and still chose to leave with grace. That’s always been his style.”

The coach acknowledged Kohli’s impact beyond just statistics—pointing to his fierce competitiveness, unmatched discipline, and the high standards he introduced during his leadership tenure. Sharma referred to Kohli’s commitment to fitness and success overseas as foundational shifts in Indian cricket culture.

Leadership, Legacy, and the Emotions Surrounding His Exit

Under Kohli’s captaincy, India became a formidable force in Test cricket, especially on foreign soil—a feat that eluded previous generations. Sharma praised his leadership, saying, “Everyone knows what he did for Indian cricket. The team’s focus on physical fitness and the hunger to win abroad—those are Virat’s footprints.”

Emotions are running high across the nation following Kohli’s announcement. Sharma shared that he’s been flooded with messages from fans urging him to persuade Kohli to reconsider. “People are emotional. Thousands are messaging me, asking to convince him. They want to see him in whites again. That speaks volumes about his legacy,” Sharma revealed.

Kohli’s decision comes just after India’s triumph in the 2024 T20 World Cup, where he also announced his retirement from T20 internationals. He will continue to represent India in ODIs, further cementing his commitment to the team while stepping back from formats where he’s already accomplished more than most.

What This Means for Indian Cricket

While the void left by Kohli’s Test exit is undeniable, his influence continues to shape the game. Upcoming players now have a blueprint—not just for performance, but for timing, integrity, and professionalism. His legacy includes not only records but also the ethos he brought to Indian cricket.

For fans, his retirement marks the end of an era, but it also shines a spotlight on the new generation he’s helped inspire. The impact of Kohli’s career will be felt long beyond the final ball he faced in Test cricket.