Virat Kohli, the modern-day Test Cricket legend, has shocked the cricketing fraternity by announcing his retirement from the format. The announcement came just before India was getting ready for the five-match Test series against India. Meanwhile, the England Test captain revealed that he had texted Kohli, saying its a "shame" to not play against him in the highest format of the sport. Ben Stokes tagged Kohli as "incredible,” voicing what millions already feel. With India set to tour England for a five-match Test series starting June 20, Stokes took a moment to acknowledge the glaring absence that will shape the summer — Kohli’s. After Kohli stunned the cricketing world by announcing his Test retirement on May 12, just days after Rohit Sharma’s own exit, Stokes revealed he sent him a heartfelt message. Speaking about his equation with Kohli in a recently released video by ECB, Stokes said, “What India will miss is his fighting spirit on the field, his competitiveness, his desire to win. He's made No. 18 his own - we might never see it on the back of another Indian shirt. He's been pure class for such a long time. I texted him saying it's going to be a shame not playing against him this time. I love playing against Virat. We've always relished the contest because we share the same mindset on the field - it's a battle." Ben Stokes reacts to Virat Kohli retiring from Test cricket. pic.twitter.com/4Ef7pPCeRb — Naeem (@NaeemCeption) May 21, 2025 Read also: Pat Cummins Carries Marsh Cutout After SRH Win vs LSG The fiercest battles breed the deepest respect For Stokes, who thrives on challenges, Kohli’s absence feels personal. He added, “I love playing against Virat. We’ve always relished the contest because we share the same mindset — it’s a battle.” Theirs wasn’t a rivalry built on animosity but mutual fire. They brought the best out of each other, match after match, year after year. He further said, “In white-ball formats, he’s been outstanding. One thing I’ll always remember about Virat is how hard he hits the ball through the covers — that cover drive will live long in the memory.” Few players have troubled England and earned their respect in equal measure the way Kohli did. From a torrid 2014 tour to a glorious redemption in 2018 and leadership triumphs in 2021, Kohli’s England chapter is already immortal. Stokes knows that. And so does cricket.