In a move that stunned the cricketing world, Virat Kohli announced his retirement from Test cricket, bringing the curtains down on a glorious red-ball career. Fans, players, legends, and celebrities from all walks of life flooded social media with heartfelt tributes, thanking Kohli for his passion, unmatched intensity, and monumental contribution to Indian cricket.
Over the course of his 123-Test career, Kohli amassed 9,230 runs, including 30 centuries, 31 half-centuries, and 7 double centuries, ending with an impressive average of 46. From Adelaide to The Oval, Kohli’s fierce presence and steely determination defined an era. His leadership transformed India’s Test side into a world-beating force, especially overseas.
As the cricketing fraternity continues to come to terms with the decision, a unique and tender tribute has caught the public’s imagination.
In the latest episode of Rashmika & Ru (R&R)—a feel-good social media series created by Terribly Tiny Tales (TTT) in collaboration with Rashmika Mandanna—an animated character named Ru innocently asks the actress, “Did Virat really have to retire?”
Rashmika’s soft, hopeful reply—“Maybe to make space for something better”—has resonated deeply with fans grappling with the emotional weight of Kohli’s farewell. The moment, simple yet profound, perfectly captures the collective mood: a mix of gratitude, disbelief, and a quiet hope for what lies ahead.
Rashmika & Ru is a newly launched IP under Collective Artists Network, aiming to bring “small doses of joy and optimism” to the digital world. And in this bittersweet moment, it has done just that—offering a warm digital hug to millions mourning the end of Kohli’s Test journey.
Virat Kohli retired from T20 cricket last year after winning the T20 World Cup 2024 tournament. He will be focusing only on the ODI format and will be eyeing for the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2027 glory.