Hashim Amla pays a heartfelt tribute to Virat Kohli’s Test retirement

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The curtains have drawn on an era as Virat Kohli, one of India’s most celebrated cricketers, announced his retirement from Test cricket on May 12, 2025. After 14 years of donning the whites, Kohli’s decision to step away follows closely on the heels of Rohit Sharma’s retirement, marking a significant generational shift in Indian cricket. As tributes poured in from around the globe, one message stood out-a deeply respectful note from South Africa batting great Hashim Amla, reflecting the mutual admiration between two modern legends.

Amla, renowned for his calm demeanor and elegant strokeplay, took to Instagram to honour Kohli’s remarkable Test journey. He wrote, “Congrats on an amazing Test career @virat.kohli. As an opponent there was never a moment to rest whilst you were batting and or even whilst waiting for you to bat. Always competitive and that truly enriched each game with the art of determination, skill and excellence. Undoubtedly one of the greats of the game and a joy to watch. We thank you for all the Test entertainment and long may it continue in the other formats. Well done.”

Amla’s tribute is not just a congratulatory note-it’s a testament to the fierce yet respectful rivalry that defined their encounters. Both players, who retired at the age of 36 and played a similar number of Tests (Amla 124, Kohli 123), fell just short of the 10,000-run milestone in Test cricket, yet their impact transcends mere statistics. Amla’s words highlight Kohli’s relentless competitiveness and the elevated standard he brought to every contest, qualities that inspired teammates and opponents alike.

A post shared by Hashim Amla (@hashamla)

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The careers of Kohli and Amla share striking similarities. Each was a pillar for his national side, shouldering the hopes of millions and delivering under pressure. Kohli amassed 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85, including 30 centuries, and led India to historic series wins in Australia, England, and South Africa. As captain, he transformed India into a dominant Test force, achieving a win percentage of nearly 59% and holding the No. 1 ICC Test ranking for five consecutive years.

Amla, too, left an indelible mark, scoring 9,282 runs with 28 centuries and becoming South Africa’s second-highest Test run-scorer. Both experienced a decline in their batting averages towards the end, but their consistency and grace under pressure defined a golden era for Test cricket.

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