Virat Kohli's retirement from Test cricket has stirred heartfelt reflections across the cricketing world and among the most notable voices is that of former Australian skipper Ricky Ponting, who believes Virat Kohli will go down as one of the greatest Test players India has ever produced.

While Virat Kohli's statistical output may have dipped in recent years, Ricky Ponting emphasised that the former Indian captain's impact transcends numbers.

Speaking on the ICC Review, Ricky Ponting asserted that Virat Kohli deserves to be at the very top among Indian greats, and even when measured globally, he should be considered one of the elites. He acknowledged that in the last few years, Virat Kohli's average has declined from his earlier consistency above 50, settling closer to 46 or 47. Despite this, his record of 30 Test centuries and over 9,000 runs remains exceptional, placing him firmly among the modern legends of the game.

Virat Kohli's departure from the Test arena came ahead of the 2025 World Test Championship final, which India missed out on after a disappointing season that included a 0-3 home whitewash by New Zealand and a 1-3 loss to Australia. During the announcement of India's squad for the upcoming championship final, chief selector Ajit Agarkar revealed that Virat Kohli had already informed the selection committee of his intention to step away from the longest format.

Ricky Ponting's tribute didn't stop at Virat Kohli's on-field achievements. He praised the Indian icon for how he handled the immense expectations that come with representing and leading India.

According to Ricky Ponting, Indian players face far more pressure than their counterparts in Australia or England. Virat Kohli's ability to shoulder that burden, while also modernising the ethos of Indian cricket with his aggressive mindset, commitment to fitness and consistent intensity, speaks volumes of his legacy.

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Ricky Ponting noted that Virat Kohli not only achieved personal milestones but also rejuvenated Indian cricket, transforming its image both within the country and globally. His tenure as captain, which included 68 Tests, and his total of 123 Tests, in which he amassed 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85, symbolise a career that has been as influential as it has been impressive.

Though the Sun has set on his Test career, Virat Kohli's contributions will remain deeply etched in the annals of Indian cricket. His legacy is one of excellence, resilience and reinvention, qualities that go far beyond mere statistics.