The cricketing world converged recently for a grand gala dinner hosted by former Indian all-rounder Yuvraj Singhan event dedicated to raising funds for his philanthropic YouWeCan Foundation. The evening, held at a plush hotel in the heart of the city, saw an unprecedented assembly of cricketing legends and current stars.

The entire Indian cricket team, along with their support staff led by head coach Gautam Gambhir, graced the occasion. The star-studded guest list boasted luminaries such as the iconic Sachin TendulkarUniverse Boss Chris Gayle, England’s dashing Kevin Pietersenlegendary Brian Laraand former Indian pacer Ashish Nehra, among many others. The current Indian squad, after engaging in some light-hearted activities and mingling with the attendees for just over an hour, departed, leaving the stage set for the evening’s main attractions.

A candid revelation by Virat Kohli on his Test retirement

The highlight of the evening unfolded with a candid chat session, expertly hosted by Gaurav Kapoor. The panel featured a formidable lineup including former India head coach Ravi shastriYuvraj, Pietersen, Gayle and former England fast bowler Darren Gough. Initially, Virat Kohli was not part of the on-stage discussion. However, following persistent requests from the host and the palpable anticipation from the audience, Kohli eventually made his way to the stage, joining his esteemed peers. His arrival was met with enthusiastic applause, and a trademark warm embrace with Gayle underscored the camaraderie among the cricketing fraternity. It was during this segment that Kohli offered a rare, unscripted insight into his Test retirement.

When Gaurav Kapoor remarked that everyone is missing his presence on the Test field, Kohli responded with his characteristic wit and a touch of self-deprecating humour. “I just coloured my beard two days ago. You know it’s time when you are colouring your beard every four days,” he quipped, eliciting laughter from the audience and a knowing smile from Ravi Shastri, who was seated beside him. This light-hearted remark, while delivered humorously, subtly hinted at the physical and mental demands of the longest format of the game and the personal toll it can take on an active cricketer.

Kohli’s unbreakable bond with Ravi Shastri

The conversation soon shifted to the profound bond between Kohli and Shastri, a partnership that defined a golden era for Indian Test cricket. With Shastri by his side, Kohli spoke at length about the immense impact the former head coach had on his journey, particularly in Test cricket. “Honestly, if I wasn’t working with him… what happened in Test cricket wouldn’t have been possible,” Kohli stated emphatically, his voice filled with genuine respect. He highlighted the unparalleled clarity they shared, a crucial element he described as “very hard to find” and “everything for cricketers to grow in their careers.” Kohli further elaborated on Shastri’s unwavering support, especially recalling the challenging times when Shastri would “take the bullets from the front line” in press conferences, shielding his players from external pressure. “Even he hadn’t backed me the way he did… those press conferences where he took the bullets from the front line. Things would have been different and I always have respect and regard for him, for being a massive part of my cricketing journey,” Kohli reiterated, underscoring the deep gratitude and admiration he holds for his former head coach. Shastri, in turn, reciprocated the praise, acknowledging Kohli’s leadership and dedication, painting a picture of a symbiotic relationship built on mutual trust and a shared vision for Indian cricket’s success.