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When Rohit Sharma Forced Virat Kohli To Get His Due Guard Of Honour For 100th Test

Soumyajit Dutta

Virat Kohli taking guard of honour [Source: @jod_insane/X]Virat Kohli taking guard of honour [Source: @jod_insane/X]

As Virat Kohli announced his retirement from Test cricket on Monday, the cricketing world paused to reflect on a career defined not just by staggering numbers but by moments of camaraderie. Among the most beautiful memories is the guard of honour orchestrated by Rohit Sharma during Kohli’s 100th Test in 2022.

The guard of honour was a gesture that encapsulated their mutual respect and shared journey as Rohit too retired from Test cricket on May 7, just days ahead of Kohli's announcement. While the two giants are known for their bond on and off the field, the guard of honour triggers memories that saw the two legends give their due respect to each other.

Rohit Sharma Insists Kohli To Relive His 100th Test Entrance

The Mohali Test against Sri Lanka, where teammates lined up to applaud Kohli’s milestone, now stands as a timeless snapshot. For the unaware, on Day 2 of the first India-Sri Lanka Test in Mohali, Rohit Sharma ensured Virat Kohli received a heartfelt guard of honour to mark his 100th Test appearance. 

Kohli, initially stepping onto the field during Sri Lanka’s innings, was urged by Rohit to exit and re-enter, allowing teammates to formally acknowledge his milestone. The gesture, captured in a viral video, showcased Rohit’s thoughtful leadership and the squad’s deep respect for the batting icon.

Back then, the Indian team, fresh from a dominant batting display that saw them declare at 574/8, lined up to applaud Kohli as he walked back onto the Punjab Cricket Association Stadium. The crowd erupted in cheers, with Kohli humbly accepting the tribute before taking his fielding position.

Kohli's Retirement Triggers Nostalgia For Fans

The viral clip  of the guard of honour resurfaced following Kohli’s retirement announcement, with fans hailing it as a metaphor for their synergy. As Kohli retired, social media brimmed with tributes, revisiting the icon's most memorable days in Whites. 

With Kohli’s retirement, Indian cricket loses not just a legend but one-half of a duo whose unity was as impactful as their runs. As fans mourn the end of an era, Kohli and Rohit’s legacy remains, a testament to how respect and rivalry can coexist, forging greatness.