Moments after Virat Kohli officially announced his retirement from Test cricket, cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar took to Instagram with a heartfelt tribute that left fans emotional. Sharing a picture of Kohli from behind in his iconic No. 18 jersey, Tendulkar recounted a deeply personal memory from his farewell Test in 2013.

In the moving note, Tendulkar wrote that Kohli had once offered him a sacred thread from his late father during his final Test match—an emotional gesture that left a lasting impression. “It was something too personal for me to accept, but the gesture was heartwarming and has stayed with me ever since,” the Master Blaster said. “While I may not have a thread to offer in return, please know that you carry my deepest admiration and very best wishes.”

Tendulkar hailed Kohli’s true legacy as one of inspiration, having sparked a generation of passionate young cricketers across the country. “You have given Indian cricket so much more than just runs – you have given it a new generation of passionate fans and players.”

Earlier today, Kohli shared his official retirement note on Instagram, calling it a difficult yet timely decision. “I’ve given everything I had,” he wrote, as tributes from players, fans, and celebrities poured in.

Kohli retires as India’s most successful Test captain, with 40 wins from 68 matches and over 9,200 runs in red-ball cricket. His departure marks the end of an era in Indian cricket.