TOI Exclusive: Brad Haddin Hails Virat Kohli as Test Cricket’s Greatest Icon
In the world of cricket, few names resonate as powerfully as Virat Kohli. The recently retired Indian batting maestro has left an indelible mark on the game, particularly in the Test format, where his passion, resilience, and sheer will to win made him a colossus. In an exclusive conversation with Times of India from Jaipur, former Australian wicketkeeper-batter and current Punjab Kings assistant coach Brad Haddin paid glowing tribute to Kohli, asserting that Test cricket will sorely miss his presence.
Haddin, who shared the field with Kohli during some intensely competitive encounters, highlighted the Indian star’s unyielding spirit. ‘It was his willingness to compete that set him apart,’ Haddin remarked. ‘Kohli was a once-in-a-generation player. He redefined the game not just with his skill but with how he presented himself physically and mentally. Australians admired his passion for the big moments. Whether it was facing Australia, South Africa, or England at their peak, Kohli always brought his A-game. Those high-stakes battles drew the very best out of him.’
Reflecting on a memorable clash, Haddin recalled Kohli’s Test captaincy debut during the 2014 Adelaide Test. That match saw fiery exchanges between Kohli, Haddin himself, and Australian pacer Mitchell Johnson. Undeterred by the hostility, Kohli responded with twin centuries, showcasing his resilience and hunger for victory. Though India ultimately lost the match by 48 runs, Kohli’s performance cemented his reputation as a fighter. ‘That game epitomized what Kohli was all about—never backing down,’ Haddin noted. With 7,412 runs in 113 Tests at an average of 48.44, including 27 centuries, Kohli’s numbers in the format speak volumes about his dominance.
‘He’s going to be sorely missed in Test cricket,’ Haddin reiterated. ‘I firmly believe Test cricket was his greatest format. That’s where he made his biggest impact—leading India to historic victories like the 2018-19 series win in Australia, the first by any Indian side. His intensity and belief elevated not just his own game but also inspired a generation of cricketers.’
Shreyas Iyer: A Captain with Heart
Shifting focus to his current role with Punjab Kings in the IPL, where he has been assistant coach since 2022, Haddin also had words of praise for captain Shreyas Iyer. ‘One thing that stands out about Shreyas is his care for his team,’ Haddin said. ‘He has a clear vision and communicates it effectively to the players. More importantly, he lives by the values he preaches, which has earned him enormous respect from the squad.’
Haddin also emphasized the strong working relationship between Iyer and head coach Ricky Ponting. ‘They’ve built a great partnership since their time together at Delhi Capitals. Their collaboration is seamless, and it reflects in how the team operates,’ he added. Under Iyer’s leadership, Punjab Kings have shown flashes of brilliance, and with the 2025 IPL auction looming, fans will hope this duo can guide the franchise to its maiden title.
As the cricket world continues to process Virat Kohli’s departure from the Test stage, voices like Brad Haddin’s remind us of the void left by a true giant of the game. Meanwhile, in the IPL arena, Haddin’s insights into Shreyas Iyer’s leadership offer a glimpse of hope for Punjab Kings’ future. From Test cricket’s hallowed grounds to the glitz of T20, the sport’s narrative remains as compelling as ever, driven by legends of the past and leaders of tomorrow.