Ravi Ashwin Hails Virat Kohli as a True Ambassador of Test Cricket

Kohli’s Retirement from Test Cricket Leaves a Void, Says Ashwin

Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has expressed heartfelt admiration for Virat Kohli following the latter’s retirement from Test cricket, calling him an “ambassador for Test cricket” and emphasizing how his unmatched energy on the field will be deeply missed.

Speaking about Kohli’s influence and passion for the longest format of the game, Ashwin stated,
“Virat Kohli was an ambassador for Test cricket and his energy will be missed on the field. It’s tough to replace his energy on the field. Felt like he had some more cricket left, but then he will know the best.”

Kohli’s Unmatched Passion and Leadership in Test Cricket

Virat Kohli’s legacy in Test cricket goes far beyond his statistics. Under his leadership, India reached new heights in red-ball cricket, including becoming the No. 1 Test team in the world and winning a historic series in Australia in 2018–19. Known for his fierce intensity and uncompromising fitness standards, Kohli brought a new level of professionalism to the Indian Test team.

Ashwin highlighted how Kohli’s presence added a unique dimension to the Indian team:
“His energy was infectious. He brought life to the field, whether it was a Day 1 morning in Cape Town or a final hour battle in Adelaide. That kind of drive is rare.”

A Decision Only Kohli Could Make

While fans and experts alike speculated that Kohli had more to offer in the longest format, Ashwin respected the timing of the decision.
“It felt like he had some more cricket left,” Ashwin said. “But then again, he knows best. Only he knows what his body and mind are going through.”

The retirement may have caught many by surprise, but it reflects Kohli’s tendency to follow his instincts and act with conviction—traits that defined his cricketing journey.

Kohli’s Test Career at a Glance

Virat Kohli played 113 Test matches, amassing over 8,000 runs with 29 centuries to his name. His captaincy era is widely regarded as one of the most dominant and competitive phases in Indian Test history. Notable achievements include:

• Leading India to its first Test series win in Australia (2018–19)
• Taking India to the ICC World Test Championship final (2021)
• Rejuvenating the pace attack and instilling a culture of aggression and belief

Ashwin and Kohli: A Celebrated Partnership

Ashwin and Kohli shared the field in numerous iconic Test matches. As a key member of the bowling unit, Ashwin thrived under Kohli’s leadership, and their camaraderie was often evident on and off the field.

“We’ve been through highs and lows together. There was mutual respect. He always backed the bowlers to go for the kill,” Ashwin added.

A Glorious Legacy That Will Inspire Generations

As the cricketing world digests Kohli’s departure from the red-ball format, tributes continue to pour in from teammates, legends, and fans across the globe. His dedication to Test cricket, often seen as the most challenging and purest form of the game, has helped revive interest in the format.

Kohli’s exit may leave a gap, but his legacy as a passionate torchbearer of Test cricket will continue to inspire future generations.