The illustrious journey of India's star batsman Virat Kohli in Test cricket has come to a halt. Kohli, who carved a niche for himself in Australia with his stellar performances, will no longer trouble their bowlers donning the white jersey. Every Australian newspaper has adorned him with praise. After amassing 9230 runs at an average of 46.85, including 30 centuries over 123 matches, Kohli has bid farewell to Test cricket. He had already retired from T20 Internationals.
When 36-year-old Virat Kohli announced his retirement from Test cricket, the prominent Australian daily, ‘The Sydney Morning Herald’, hailed this Indian icon, saying, 'Australians were captivated by Kohli's unbelievable batting skills combined with his gutsy demeanor on the field, revealing a reflection of many in him.'
The newspaper recounted, 'Kohli's first series in Australia was back in 2011-12, against a Michael Clarke-led team that dominated, yet Kohli showed a rare boldness compared to his peers, concluding with a century in Adelaide.'
It mentioned, 'He faced criticism at SCG for showing his finger to the crowd.' The newspaper continued, 'This marked the beginning of battles with the Australian spectators, culminating on the final day of his Test career in January this year when he gestured 'sandpaper' to the same audience.'
‘Australian Broadcasting Corporation’ (ABC) highlighted his triumphant tenure as India's Test captain, which included a historic series victory in Australia.
ABC wrote, 'His tenure from 2014 to 2022 as captain will be legendary, steering India to 40 victories out of 68 Tests, achieving the status of the country's most successful captain and ranking fourth in wins globally, following South Africa’s Graeme Smith (53) and Australia’s Ricky Ponting (48) and Steve Waugh (41).'
‘News.com.au’ reported with the headline 'Virat Kohli Breaks 1.4 Billion Hearts with His Retirement Announcement.'
Meanwhile, ‘Fox Sports’ asserted that without Kohli and Rohit Sharma, a 'significant void' would be felt in the Indian batting lineup.
Exemplifying his shining career against Australia, Virat Kohli played 30 Test matches, scored 2232 runs with an average of 43.76, struck 9 centuries and 5 half-centuries. His highest score against Australia was a magnificent 186, achieved in March 2023 in Ahmedabad.
