Former England captain Nasser Hussain has hailed Virat Kohli’s Test career, describing him as an unbelievable player whose impact on Indian cricket goes beyond statistics. Speaking on the Sky Sports Cricket podcast, Hussain emphasized Kohli’s aura, swagger, and passion, which made him one of the most influential cricketers of his generation.
Kohli’s Legacy in Test Cricket
- Total Test Runs: 9,230 in 123 matches.
- Test Centuries: 30, ranking among the Fab 4 alongside Joe Root, Steve Smith, and Kane Williamson.
- India’s Most Successful Test Captain: 40 wins in 68 matches, maintaining the No. 1 ranking for 42 months.
Hussain on Kohli’s Relentless Drive
Hussain noted that Kohli’s obsession with winning and his refusal to be a “normal cricketer” may have influenced his decision to retire from Tests.
“He is the ultimate winner. Everything for Kohli is about winning. Why do you think he’s so good in run chases? He can’t go on the field and not be a hundred percent. He doesn’t want to be a normal cricketer, just doing a little bit here and there. He made India into the force they are today,” Hussain remarked.
Impact on Indian Cricket & Future Challenges
With Kohli and Rohit Sharma retiring from Tests, India faces a major transition ahead of the five-match series against England, starting June 20, 2025. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is yet to announce the squad, but Shubman Gill is expected to take over captaincy.
Final Thoughts
Hussain’s tribute underscores Kohli’s unparalleled influence on Indian cricket, not just through his record-breaking stats, but through his leadership, intensity, and passion for the game.
For more updates on Virat Kohli’s retirement and India’s Test cricket future, stay tuned!
