India's cricketing world had an emotional moment when one of their legendary Test captains and batting greats, Virat Kohli, announced his retirement from Test cricket. The cricketing universe responded with amazement and disbelief, but with the young superstar Shubman Gill's open letter to Kohli, it became a message from the next generation that honored Kohli's legacy.

Gill shared an emotional social media message mentioning how he looked up to him and was grateful to him as "paji," stating simply that no matter how many words he put down to say how big the influence on him was, it would never be enough. Gill recalled being thirteen and watching Kohli bat as an audience member in awe of how one human could use that much energy and passion and how it was impossible for Gill to conceptualize that level of talent; that was only rectified when Gill shared a dressing room and the track with his idol. Gill emphasized that Kohli did not simply inspire a generation but also changed the mentality of millions. He further explained Kohli's unmatched passion and commitment and the mental revolution that he brought to Indian Test cricket. For Gill, as a player who was born with a bat in hand and watched Kohli dominate all formats of cricket at home and away, it is a personal and historical moment.

Shubman Gill’s fantastic and touching farewell for King Kohli on his Test retirement! 🤌❤️🥹#ViratKohli #Tests #India #Sportskeeda pic.twitter.com/2em7N8Y6Jp

— Sportskeeda (@Sportskeeda) May 12, 2025

Also read: Virat Kohli's first match and last match in Test cricket

A Legacy That Inspires Generations

Shubman also recognized the importance Kohli gave to Test cricket, saying that he wishes the current generation can take forward the same fire and passion. His message was not a farewell message—it was a promise. A promise to maintain the legacy Kohli created with his sweat, skill, and spirit over the years.

The bond between Gill and Kohli reflects the beautiful transition in Indian cricket. While the world celebrates Kohli’s phenomenal Test career, players like Gill are ready to take the baton forward. Kohli’s departure leaves a void, but it also leaves behind a roadmap of excellence, discipline, and belief.

As Shubman Gill ended his tribute, he just said, "Thank you for everything. Happy retirement, @imVkohli paji." A very strong statement reflecting the emotions of millions of fans and young cricketers across the globe.