Invitations have been reportedly sent to both cricketing icons of India, Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli for the consecration program of Ram Temple in Ayodhya on January 22, 2024.

Also Read: 'I didn't remove Virat Kohli from captaincy': Sourav Ganguly

People must have seen the two greats of cricket, Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli many times on the cricket field, but soon they can see these two players together in the biggest religious program of the country. Both Sachin and Virat can go to Ayodhya to participate in the consecration program of Ram temple.

Apart from the prestigious cricket pair, around 8000 dignitaries have been invited especially for this special event. The holy Ram Temple will be ready by January 2024. Many special personalities will attend the inauguration ceremony of Ram Lalla's statue, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, and many others.

Sachin and Virat have been seen many times participating in religious activities. Especially in the last few months or years, Virat Kohli has been seen several times with his wife Anushka Sharma performing puja in different religious places across the country. Some of Virat's fans believe that since he started visiting religious places, his form has also returned.

After a long wait in Ayodhya, Ram Lala's life will be consecrated in Shri Ram Temple. The construction of the temple started in 2019 after the Supreme Court's decision in favor of Ram Janmabhoomi and now the temple is almost ready, which will be open to Ram devotees from all over the world after the installation of the idol of Ram Lala in January.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will already be present for the Pran Pratishtha program in the Ram Temple.

Also Read: Top 5 contenders for ICC Men's Cricketer of the Year 2023 Award

The invited guests include not only big leaders or religious leaders and activists, but also many big industrialists, stars of the entertainment industry and names of legendary Indian cricketers. Apart from Sachin and Virat, Bollywood star Amitabh Bachchan, Akshay Kumar, country's biggest industrialists Ratan Tata, Mukesh Ambani and Gautam Adani have also been invited. How many of these people will be a part of this program will be known only on that day.

RCB fans in Bengaluru to wear white for Virat Kohli Test tribute? Yes! Fans are planning a special "wear white" initiative and asking the crowd to show up in whites for the upcoming RCB vs KKR match at Chinnaswamy Stadium on May 17, 2025.

As the IPL is set to resume tomorrow, and we will witness Virat Kohli play his first match after his announcement of test retirement, fans are organising a heartfelt tribute for the King!

The viral spread of white wave

A fan-driven moment is going viral recently where they call the crowd to wear white for a collective tribute to Virat Kohli after his test retirement.

Whether you have a test jersey or not, all they ask for is wearing anything white instead of the jerseys of IPL franchises.

Discussions on Reddit

The white tribute takes shape on reddit as fans try to reach out as much as possible.

Fans pledge to wear white in Instagram comments

Fans leave heartfelt messages on comments section of official Royal Challengers Bengaluru Instagram page.

Hashtags like #WearWhiteForVirat, #KohliTestTribute, and #KohliTestFarewell are the ones people are using to make this a trend before the upcoming IPL 2025 match.

Content Creators spreading the word

Many content creators have joined hands to support this initiative and they are getting huge responses.

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Harsha Bhogle reacts on Twitter 

Hey @RCBTweets fans, are you planning to turn up in white for the game on the 17th? Remember seeing a post suggesting that. It will be incredible and a sight for the ages if true and if you can pull it off.

— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) May 15, 2025

The comments section in response to the initiative is getting flooded with comments like "Count me in," and "Wearing white with pride!" 

Many are tagging their acquaintance with messages like "@[friends username] Let's do it!"

Will you show up on May 17 at Chinnaswamy Stadium in whites too?

Virat Kohli's decision to step away from tests makes it a key question to ask, observe and analyse its effects on fans and their engagement with Test cricket.

People on the internet are talking about the closure of a big chapter. So, now that the chapter is closed, it will be crucial to check if the fans still embrace the long format.

Let's dive into the depths of this particular question that will rise in the days ahead: Will Indian fans lose interest in Test cricket after Virat Kohli's retirement?

Kohli's unmatched influence on Test cricket fandom

Virat Kohli has left his mark and impact beyond just his bat and performance. The sentimental connection fans had with him in tests is hard to put into words.

Considering India had exceptional test cricketers like Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid and Sunil Gavaskar, what is it about this man that his test exit is feeling like an irreplaceable void?

• Virat Kohli is the most successful Indian Test captain and holds the record for most victories, with 40 wins in total.
• His captaincy at home soil was exceptional, which showed everyone how dominant the Indian team can be, winning 24 out of 31 matches.
• Kohli's presence in Tests was unique. He inspired millions of fans to watch the format, who were drawn by his presence and performance.
• He fundamentally reshaped the Test landscape for India by proving the entire world that this country is equally good in Test just like other formats.
• Kohli's on-field intensity made every moment iconic for the teammates and fans to watch.
• He holds the record for scoring the most double centuries as an Indian batter, with 7 double centuries in his career. 
• Kohli's hunger for doing better and delivering crucial knocks and centuries for the team has drawn so many non-cricket fans to watch this format.
• Fans felt a strong emotional connection to his journey, following the highs and lows, and his commitment to winning for India.

Read Also: Most successful Test captains from India

What could Kohli's absence mean for the Test in India?

Virat Kohli's role in this format has been significant, on and off the ground. The reaction of fans after his retirement news made it clear how he has defined an entire generation's perception of the format.

Social media is flooded with posts and comments like "End of an Era," "Test cricket won't be the same without the King," "Grew up watching him fire in tests, a part of our childhood is gone today," and many others.

While some people are recalling those "memories and battles," some are acknowledging "the irreplaceable void and future of test cricket for India."

Read Also: "End of an era": Cricketing world reacts to Virat Kohli's test retirement

The kind of reaction and energy from the fandom makes it obvious to speculate how challenging it can be to keep the same level of interest in tests now. It makes it even questionable as the former captain, Rohit Sharma, has also decided to retire from Test cricket, days before Kohli's retirement.

The whole nation will definitely miss Ro-Ko in tests. But will it affect their interest in this format?

It will be a vital thing to keep an eye on in the future.

Cricket, a sport loved by millions around the world, has witnessed the rise of several legendary players. In the modern era, four exceptional batsmen have stood out with their consistent brilliance, earning them the title of the “Fab Four players.” Their performances are often compared under the widely discussed Fab four Stats.

These iconic cricketers – Virat Kohli, Joe Root, Kane Williamson, and Steve Smith have set new benchmarks for batting excellence across formats. 

Virat Kohli recently announced his retirement from Test cricket earlier today (May 12) with a post on his official Instagram handle. He ended his 14-year illustrious career in the format.

In this article, we will take a closer look at their remarkable careers, comparing their updated statistics and achievements to understand what makes them the finest batsmen of the modern era in Test cricket. 

Also Read: Fav four in cricket: Kohli vs Root vs Williamson vs Smith overall stats

So, let's take a look at the statistics of the Fav Four in Test cricket.

Fav four in Test cricket | Kohli vs Root vs Williamson vs Smith

Test cricket, often considered the ultimate test of a player’s skill and temperament, has seen these four players shine brightly. Here’s how they stack up in the longest format.

Virat Kohli's peak in Test cricket arrived well before the likes of Joe Root and Kane Williamson. Steve Smith matched him toe to toe during that period, but the 12-month ban due to the sandpaper gate overshadowed his brilliance in the format. 

However, when we compare the numbers of Fab four in 2025, Kohli has fallen way behind his contemporaries. Root is at the peak of his powers in Test cricket in the last five years while Williamson has never really been out of form in the whites.

Smith has been on and off over the last couple of years, but his form has never been a concern for Australia in Tests. When it comes to runs, averages and centuries, Kohli ranks last among Fab four and a lot of it has to do with his downfall in the format since November 2019.

Also Read: Sachin vs Kohli: Stats Comparison in Test Cricket

Here is a comparison of Fav four in Test cricket.

Fav four in Test cricket | How Kohli finished in Tests compared to Fab four

It is certain that Virat Kohli, who was once untouchable in the debate of Fab Four, will remain at the bottom forever when compared to his contemporaries. Only if his form hadn't dropped after November 2019, the 36-year-old, today, has stepped down from the format with some unreal numbers.

Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli are two such names in Test cricket who have taken Indian cricket to new heights. While Sachin is called the 'God of Cricket', Virat has proved himself to be the greatest batsman of the modern era with his aggressive style and consistency.

Kohli has announced his retirement from Test cricket after playing the format for 14 odd years. Kohli, also the former Test captain of India, made his debut in the format in 2011, and since then he had been India's main man in the red ball format.

Also Read: Virat Kohli in Tests: In Numbers

So let's take a look at Sachin vs Kohli stats comparison in Test cricket.

Tendulkar's Test career

Sachin Tendulkar played his first test match in 1989 against Pakistan. He played 200 test matches for the Indian cricket team, in which he remained unbeaten 33 times in 329 innings and managed to score 15,921 runs at an average of 53.78. He scored 51 centuries and 68 half-centuries. Tendulkar's best score in Test cricket was 248* runs. Sachin played his last Test match in the year 2013.

Kohli's Test Career

Kohli played his first Test match in 2011 against West Indies. He was last seen playing against the Australia in January 2025. He scored 9,230 runs in 210 innings of 123 matches at an average of 46.85. He scored 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries from his bat. Kohli's best score has been 254*. During this period, Kohli also remained unbeaten in 13 innings.

Sachin vs Kohli | Stats at number four

Tendulkar played 177 Test matches for India at number four. He was successful in scoring 13,492 runs in 275 innings at an average of 54.40. He scored 44 centuries and 58 half-centuries. His best score was 248*.

Kohli managed to score 7,564 runs at an average of 50.09 in 160 innings of 98 matches at number four. He scored 26 centuries and 21 half-centuries. His best score was 254* runs.

Sachin vs Kohli | Stats as a captain

Tendulkar captained India in 25 Test matches. The team won 4 matches and lost 9 matches. 12 matches were drawn. His winning percentage was 30.76.

Kohli captained the Indian team in 68 matches. The team won 40 matches and lost 17 matches. 11 matches were drawn. Kohli's winning percentage was 70.17.

Sachin vs Kohli | Most Test matches

This is one record that will be very hard to break for anybody. Let's just say that at this moment in time, it looks impossible to break Sachin Tendulkar's record for most Test matches.

Often regarded as the 'God of Cricket', Sachin Tendulkar played 200 Test matches in his illustrious career, whereas Virat Kohli ends his career with 123 Test matches.

Also Read: Fav four in cricket: Kohli vs Root vs Williamson vs Smith overall stats

Sachin vs Kohli | Most centuries

This is one record that Kohli was expected to break, but unfortunately, he did fall short of going past Sachin Tendulkar. But this does not take away the fact that Kohli is an all-time great and is one of the geniuses that the game has ever seen.

Sachin Tendulkar has 51 Test hundreds to his name, whereas Kohli ends his career with 30 Test hundreds.

Sachin vs Kohli | Most Test Runs

Kohli and Sachin, they have scored runs around the globe and in all conditions. This makes them two greats to have ever played the game. Sachin ended his Test career with 15,921 runs, whereas Kohli called time on his career after scoring 9,230 runs.

Virat Kohli has left a void in Test cricket as he decided to conclude his journey in whites. His entire test career was like gifted moments of immense pride for India. His commitment, influence on team culture, fitness standards, and aggresive approach to the game had a transformative impact on test cricket.

Today, the world bows down to the king as he steps down the throne. See how the cricketing world reacts to Virat Kohli's test retirement.

"It's not easy.. but it feels right": Says Kohli on his retirement post

On 12th May, 2025, Virat Kohli shared a heartfelt post on Instagram, announcing his retirement from the test format. Fans express how his retirement from the T20Is was understandable, but this feels different like a personal loss.

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A post shared by Virat Kohli (@virat.kohli)

Virat ending the caption with "I will always look back at my Test career with a smile" is something that the whole nation can connect to, with waves of emotions.

A chorus of reactions: the cricketing world reacts to Virat Kohli's test retirement 

From heartwarming messages to showing respect and admiration for his huge contribution in Tests, the emotions have been overflowing through social media platforms.

Here's what the cricketing world has to say about the King's decision to step away.

Indian cricketers on Kohli's legacy 

Former cricketers like Harbhajan Singh, Suresh Raina, Ravi Shastri, as well as Virat's current teammates have penned down their thoughts on his retirement.

Virat, we’ve shared that era… faced the grind together, lived the long days of Test cricket with pride. Your batting in whites is special — not just in numbers, but in intent, intensity, and inspiration.
Good luck going forward #ViratKohli #TestCricket @imVkohli pic.twitter.com/GSh1Ca6I3G

— Harbhajan Turbanator (@harbhajan_singh) May 12, 2025

Can’t believe you are done. You are a modern-day GIANT and were a fantastic ambassador for Test match cricket in every way you played and captained. Thank you for the lasting memories you’ve given to everyone, and to me in particular. It’s something I will cherish for life. Go… pic.twitter.com/1te6LFGdMx

— Ravi Shastri (@RaviShastriOfc) May 12, 2025

Your passion & leadership in Test cricket have inspired millions, brother! Love and respect bro @imVkohli

Sad to see you step away, but your legacy will live on. 🙌 #Legend #thankyouvirat pic.twitter.com/6Ce9Z0wnPj

— Suresh Raina🇮🇳 (@ImRaina) May 12, 2025

Congratulations Virat on an incredible test career. From the time i saw you, knew that you are special. The intensity that you brought and the sheer passion with which you played Test cricket was a joy to watch. You were a great ambassador of Test cricket and wish you the best… pic.twitter.com/JP9yxQnnWC

— Virrender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) May 12, 2025

There was something about @imVkohli in whites. It wasn’t just skill. It was intent. He didn’t want to survive. He wanted to dominate. To conquer.
And in the process, he gave us 14 years of unforgettable memories. Best of luck for your journey ahead 🙌🏻#ViratKohli𓃵 pic.twitter.com/gTaIRC1el0— Jhulan Goswami (@JhulanG10) May 12, 2025

"A man with lion's passion," says the Indian head coach Gautam Gambhir.

A man with lion’s passion!
Will miss u cheeks…. pic.twitter.com/uNGW7Y8Ak6

— Gautam Gambhir (@GautamGambhir) May 12, 2025

Axar Patel, Rishabh Pant and others on twitter. "Legend retires, legacy remains," added Axar Patel on his tweet.

Kehna asaan hai..samajhna mushkil.
Legend retires, legacy remains. Thank you, Virat bhai @imVkohli pic.twitter.com/O4d7E4U5sW

— Axar Patel (@akshar2026) May 12, 2025

The intensity, the passion, the fight – you gave it your all, every single time! All the best for what's ahead, @imVkohli bhai.
#RP17 pic.twitter.com/jeKH5mYogS

— Rishabh Pant (@RishabhPant17) May 12, 2025

Cricketers worldwide on Kohli's test exit

From his closest mate AB de Villiers to Sri Lankan cricketer Sanath Jayasuriya, every cricketer across the world has something to say about this!

Congrats to my biscotti @imVkohli on an epic Test career! Your determination & skill have always inspired me. True legend! ❤️🙌🏻 #ViratKohli𓃵 pic.twitter.com/2DnNLRzSrI

— AB de Villiers (@ABdeVilliers17) May 12, 2025

All the best on your Test retirement @imVkohli While the world celebrates your cricketing brilliance and records, what I admire most is your unwavering commitment to fitness and the sacrifices you've made behind the scenes

— Sanath Jayasuriya (@Sanath07) May 12, 2025

The former England cricketer, Kevin Pietersen's astonished reaction to Virat's retirement decision.

Virat?!?! 😱😱😱😱😱😱😱😱

— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) May 12, 2025

Read Also: Virat Kohli in Tests: In Numbers

Anushka Sharma reflects on Virat's time in Test cricket 

Through the highs and lows of his career, there has been one constant support of his wife, Anushka Sharma, who has now shared her thoughts on Virat Kohli's test retirement.

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