WATCH: Umpire Kumar Dharmasena’s emotional tribute to Virat Kohli goes viral

As the sun sets on Virat Kohli's great Test career, the tributes keep rolling in from across the cricketing globe. Perhaps the most poignant came from someone who followed Kohli's career from a mere handful of yards away, not as a teammate or rival but as a neutral and respected presence in the thick of the action: umpire Kumar Dharmasena.

In a recent photo post on Instagram, the ex-Sri Lankan cricketer-turned-top-class umpire gave a glimpse of his collection, an Indian Test jersey signed and presented by Virat Kohli. The jersey, sporting the legendary number 18, has a plain yet powerful message: "To Kumar, with best wishes." Dharmasena’s caption was a mix of admiration and gratitude. “From fierce battles on the field to respectful nods at the crease,” he wrote, “it was always a pleasure to officiate your games, Virat.” He praised Kohli’s passion for the red-ball game, calling it “unmatched,” and wished him the best as he steps away from the longest and most demanding format.

A Moment Beyond the Match, Dharmasena’s Tribute to Kohli’s Timeless Test Legacy

What makes this post stand out most is its honesty. It's not a jersey post. It's a post about the journey, the unspoken friendship forged across hundreds of middle hours. Umpires are usually quiet guardians of the game, and for one such highly regarded among them to regard Kohli as highly as he did is a testament to the Indian great's legacy. "Your signed Test jersey is still one of the most treasured items in my possession," Dharmasena penned, "a reminder of a game legend."

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A post shared by Kumar Dharmasena (@kumardharmasenaofficial)

In a game where rivalries, records, and outcomes tend to hold primetime, this modest message was a reminder of something longer-lasting: respect. Respect between the player and the umpire. Between generations and players. Between the game and those who give their lives to it. As Kohli exits Test cricket, this action by Dharmasena is a silent tribute, unsaid but thoroughly comprehended.