Virat Kohli bows out of Tests, cricket fans in Australia laud him as 'icon of fitness and discipline'

Indian cricket star Virat Kohli has announced his retirement from Test cricket. In this podcast, we hear from passionate cricket fans across Australia as they reflect on 'the end of an era' and share their emotions and memories of the player.

On 12 May, Kohli shared the news on his Instagram account by posting "As I step away from this format, it’s not easy — but it feels right... I’m walking away with a heart full of gratitude — for the game, for the people I shared the field with, and for every single person who made me feel seen along the way."

He further said "It’s been 14 years since I first wore the baggy blue in Test cricket. Honestly, I never imagined the journey this format would take me on."

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the International Cricket Council (ICC) expressed their thoughts on India batter Kohli's retirement from Test cricket.

Cricket fans across Australia were left 'surprised' by the announcement as they expressed disappointment at the thought of seeing less of the star player in action.

Sydney-based Gurnam Singh, a community ambassador of Cricket Australia, said the news came as a surprise.

Gurnam Singh is the Community Ambassador of Cricket Australia in Sydney. Credit: Supplied by Gurnam Singh

“I think many of us expected he would retire after the England series in July, so it’s quite sad to know we won’t see him then,” he said, adding that it will be difficult to fill Virat’s shoes.

Perth-based Dr Sanjay Mukhedkar reflected on the cricketer’s deep passion for the game and said he would be deeply missed.

Perth-based Dr Sanjay Mukhedkar plays cricket in over 50 squad team. Credit: Supplied by Dr Sanjay Mukhedkar

“The timing of the announcement just felt off. So much was happening… Making such a decision during the India-Pakistan conflict didn’t seem right. We really wish he had received the grand farewell he truly deserved. That’s how it should have been,” Dr Mukhedkar said.

Adelaide-based Navsheen Kuchroo said he initially struggled to believe the news.

Navsheen Kuchroo is Adelaide based international student and a cricket fan.

“Test cricket was Virat’s pride, and seeing him retire felt unreal,” he said, noting that both India and the format needed someone like Kohli.

Melbourne-based Holly Nagpal, a member of Cricket Victoria’s women’s team, said she felt fortunate to have seen him play live.

Holly Nagpal is a cricket player in Victoria who was selected to represent the Under 15s Victorian team when she was 12 years old. Credit: Supplied by Holly Nagpal

“He’s an idol for me and my parents. Watching him at the MCG during the Boxing Day Test was unforgettable,” she said.

“I’m really excited to see what the future holds for him.”

Indu Koul, a senior women’s player with the Victorian Turf Cricket Association, says she too was surprised to see the cricketer’s retirement post.

Indu Koul is a Melbourne based cricket player. Credit: Supplied by Indu Koul

“He’s been a symbol of fitness and discipline, and it’s sad to see him step away. He’s been a real inspiration for many of us, including myself,” she said.

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