As India gears up for the high-stakes five-match Test series against England, all eyes are on a side that will be missing two of its greatest modern-day icons—Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma. Amidst this transition, England’s Test captain Ben Stokes has paid a touching tribute to Virat Kohli, who shocked the cricketing world with his sudden retirement from the longest format of the game.
Speaking in a video released by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), Stokes admitted that he personally texted Kohli after the announcement. He described Kohli’s exit as a significant moment, not just for Indian cricket but for the global Test arena. “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,” Ben Stokes shared.
The England all-rounder praised Kohli’s intensity and competitive fire, calling him a true representation of India’s desire and dominance in Test cricket. Over the years, Kohli’s on-field aggression, iconic celebrations, and unwavering commitment have made every encounter against him a spectacle.
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“What India will miss is his fighting spirit on the field, his competitiveness, and his desire to win. He’s made No. 18 his own—we might never see it on the back of another Indian shirt,” Ben Stokes said, acknowledging Kohli’s iconic jersey number.
Stokes went on to commend Kohli’s remarkable achievements across formats, highlighting his dominance in white-ball cricket and his stylistic flair. “He’s been incredible. He deserves all the accolades. No doubt, there’s been plenty of praise for him in India and here as well. In white-ball formats, he’s been outstanding. One thing I’ll always remember is how hard he hits the ball through the covers—that cover drive will live long in the memory.”
Kohli’s journey in England has had its ups and downs. After a forgettable 2014 tour, he silenced critics with a magnificent 2018 campaign, where he scored two centuries and proved his class in tough English conditions. As captain, he led India to memorable victories at Lord’s and The Oval in 2021, reinforcing his status as a fierce leader in the red-ball format.
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In total, Kohli has scored 1,096 runs in 17 Tests in England, averaging just over 33. His overall record in England across all Test matches stands at 1,991 runs in 28 matches, with an average exceeding 42—figures that underline his impact even on foreign soil.
While fans will miss Kohli in whites, the cricketing world continues to celebrate a legacy that has shaped a generation. For now, he remains active in the IPL 2025, where his passion for the game still burns brightly.
