Shashi Tharoor’s heartfelt ode to Virat Kohli after Test exit: 'Sad to see him go without the joy of farewell match'

Shashi Tharoor’s heartfelt ode to Virat Kohli after Test exit (X/ShashiTharoor)

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor's heartfelt message, in which he called the former Indian captain "immortal in whites" and bemoaned the lack of a farewell match for one of India's greatest sporting icons, stood out as tributes poured in for Virat Kohli after his unexpected retirement from Test cricket on May 12. A well-known cricket fan, Tharoor posted a moving message and a picture of his only encounter with Kohli till date on social media. Tharoor wrote that he had admired Kohli in all forms of cricket but was most impressed by his Test-match exploits.

"The only time I met the immortal @imVkohli face-to-face, early in his career, when he was well on his way to becoming the legend we have all admired. I’ve watched him bat in various formats and admired him most in Tests. I’m truly sad to see him go so early, so unexpectedly, without even the joy of a farewell Test match at home. Why, Virat? We all still need you!" Tharoor posted on X.

The only time I met the immortal @imVkohli face-to-face, early in his career, when he was well on his way to becoming the legend we have all admired. Ive watched him bat in various formats and admired him most in Tests. Im truly sad to see him go so early, so unexpectedly, pic.twitter.com/5NV6cpjxYu
Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) May 12, 2025

When Kohli announced his decision on Instagram, the cricket community was taken aback. He ended his Test career at the age of 36. In 123 Test matches, he scored 9,230 runs, including 30 hundreds, and transformed India's aspirations abroad as a captain and batsman.

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The broader notion that Kohli's abrupt departure has created a gap that transcends statistics is encapsulated in Tharoor's emotive appeal. The argument over who will replace Kohli starts as India prepares for the upcoming World Test Championship cycle.

But for the time being, the cricket community takes a moment to honor a contemporary gladiator who brought excitement, intensity, and a great deal of personal connection to Test cricket.