In a shocking turn of events that has left the cricketing world reeling, Bollywood actor and Punjab Kings co-owner Preity Zinta has poured her heart out over Virat Kohli’s unexpected retirement from Test cricket. Responding to a fan query on X (formerly Twitter), Zinta revealed the depth of her admiration for the former Indian captain, describing him as the heartbeat of red-ball cricket for millions of fans like her.
Zinta’s poignant words captured the essence of Kohli’s impact on the game: ‘I saw Test cricket mainly for Virat. He infused so much passion and character into the format with his relentless competitiveness and unyielding desire to excel. I don’t think Test cricket will ever be the same without him.’ Her emotional tribute resonates with countless fans who have witnessed Kohli redefine Indian Test cricket over the past decade.
The announcement of Kohli’s retirement, coming on the heels of Rohit Sharma’s exit from the format just days prior, has sent shockwaves through the cricketing community. With stalwarts like Kohli, Sharma, and Ravichandran Ashwin stepping away, Zinta highlighted the monumental void left behind. ‘Our current Indian players will have big shoes to fill because the likes of Virat, Rohit, and Ashwin are not playing Test cricket anymore,’ she reflected, echoing the sentiments of a nation grappling with the end of a golden era.
Kohli bids farewell to Test cricket with a staggering record—9,230 runs at an average of over 49, including 30 centuries and 29 half-centuries across 113 matches. Under his captaincy, India achieved historic milestones, including becoming the first Asian team to win a Test series in Australia in 2018-19. His aggressive, result-oriented approach transformed India into a Test powerhouse, often topping the ICC Test rankings during his tenure. Beyond numbers, Kohli’s fiery spirit and unwavering commitment inspired a generation of cricketers and fans alike.
As tributes continue to pour in from players, pundits, and celebrities, Preity Zinta’s words stand out for their raw emotion. Her statement is a reminder of how Kohli transcended the sport, becoming a cultural icon whose influence reached far beyond the boundary ropes. While the future of Indian Test cricket remains uncertain, one thing is clear—Virat Kohli’s legacy as a game-changer will endure in the hearts of fans forever.