As the sun sets on Virat Kohli’s illustrious Test career, heartfelt tributes have poured in from the cricketing fraternity—none more touching than from the man Kohli once idolised, Sachin Tendulkar. The Master Blaster, in an emotional message, reflected on a deeply personal moment between the two and hailed Kohli’s true legacy: inspiring a generation to take up the sport with unmatched passion.

Sachin Tendulkar recalled a poignant gesture from 2013, just after his final international innings, when a young Kohli approached him with a sacred thread belonging to his late father. It was Kohli’s way of paying respect to his hero. Tendulkar, overwhelmed by the sentiment, declined the offering but said the moment has stayed with him 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,” he wrote on X, sharing a heartfelt image of Kohli.

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More than his 9,000-plus Test runs and 30 centuries, Tendulkar believes Kohli’s impact goes beyond numbers. “Your true legacy, Virat, lies in inspiring countless young cricketers to pick up the sport. You have given Indian cricket so much more than just runs – you have given it a new generation of passionate fans and players,” he added.

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… pic.twitter.com/JaVzVxG0mQ

— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) May 12, 2025

Kohli, who retired from T20Is in 2024 after helping India lift the T20 World Cup, now steps away from the red-ball game as one of its modern giants. With 123 Tests under his belt, he amassed 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85, including 30 hundreds and 31 half-centuries. He also led India in 68 Tests, redefining the side’s attitude and intensity.

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Among others moved by Kohli’s announcement was former India head coach Ravi Shastri, who shared a special bond with the former captain during their highly successful tenure. “Can’t believe you are done. You are a modern-day GIANT and a fantastic ambassador for Test match cricket,” Shastri posted, echoing the sentiment of millions who watched Kohli grow into one of the most complete cricketers of the generation.

Can’t believe you are done. You are a modern-day GIANT and were a fantastic ambassador for Test match cricket in every way you played and captained. Thank you for the lasting memories you’ve given to everyone, and to me in particular. It’s something I will cherish for life. Go… pic.twitter.com/1te6LFGdMx

— Ravi Shastri (@RaviShastriOfc) May 12, 2025

Kohli may no longer wear whites, but his legacy will echo every time a young boy dreams of playing for India.