Ben Stokes reveals heartfelt text to Virat Kohli after his Test retirement

Published - 21 May 2025, 19:31 IST | Updated - 21 May 2025, 19:50 IST

Ben Stokes recently shared his admiration for Virat Kohli and extended a heartfelt sense of appreciation for what the Indian stalwart did for red-ball cricket over. Stokes also revealed why he enjoyed his battles against Kohli and revealed that he texted the former Indian skipper that it would be quite disappointing to not have Kohli in the upcoming five-match series between England and India.

"What India will miss is his fighting spirit on the field, his competitiveness, his desire to win. He's made No. 18 his own - we might never see it on the back of another Indian shirt. He's been pure class for such a long time. I texted him saying it's going to be a shame not playing against him this time. I love playing against Virat. We've always relished the contest because we share the same mindset on the field - it's a battle," shared Stokes in a video shared by the ECB.

Stokes remarked about Kohli's glorious Test career in England in addition to his remarkable prowess in India. He also recounted his cover drive, stating that he wouldn't forget for years to come.

"He's been incredible. He deserves all the accolades. No doubt, there's been plenty of praise for him in India and here as well. He's done well in England too. In white-ball formats, he's been outstanding. One thing I'll always remember about Virat is how hard he hits the ball through the covers - that cover drive will live long in the memory," added Stokes.

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India will take on England without the likes of Kohli and Rohit Sharma, both of who retired from Tests in this month. It remains to be seen how India would cope up in the tricky English conditions. The red-ball series is scheduled to get underway on June 20.