Former Pakistan -captain Shahid Afridi has hailed Virat Kohli after the Indian Batting icon’s retirement from the test cricket and howled his contribution to the game’s longest format.

At Instagram, Afridi wrote: “Congratulations on a remarkable career @imvkohli. Your passion, intensity and professionalism set new standards in the test cricket.”

“The purist format will miss your presence and competition spirit,” he added.

Afridi’s message came in response to Kohli’s message to go away from the test cricket. The 36-year-old Indian dough, debuting in 2011, ending his red ball career with 9,230 races and 30 centuries in 123 games, an average of 46.85.

Kohli confirmed the decision via Instagram and called the test cricket a format that tested and shaped him. “It’s not easy – but it feels right,” he wrote. “There is something deeply personal about playing in white. The quiet grinding, the long days, the little moments that no one sees, but which stay with you forever.”

The Indian Stalwart’s last test was against Australia in January and marked the end of a sparkling career in which he also became India’s most successful test captain.

Kohli led his side in 68 games, won 40, lost only 17 and took the team to the final of the World Cup 2021 and 2023.

India’s next test assignment is a five-match series against England, which begins June 20.