As India starts a new chapter in Test cricket under Shubman Gill at Headingley, Virat Kohli's absence is strongly felt. Former England captain Nasser Hussain paid a touching tribute to Kohli, calling him a major force in modern Test cricket.

During the Sky Sports pre-match show for the first Test of the Anderson–Tendulkar Trophy, the anchor said he wished to see Kohli play in England one last time. Hussain responded with heartfelt admiration, "Test match cricket is so much better when Kohli was playing." He acknowledged the inevitable transition, saying, "We will move on - we moved on from Gavaskar to Tendulkar to Kohli and maybe now to Gill. But Kohli added so much to this game of cricket.”

Kohli's recent retirement from Test cricket brought an end to a remarkable 14-year career, during which he amassed 9,230 runs in 123 Tests, including 30 centuries. His influence extended beyond statistics; he instilled an aggressive approach and raised fitness standards within the Indian team.

Hussain highlighted Kohli's transformative impact, noting his "aura, swagger, and passion." He emphasized that Kohli embodied the spirit of cricket in India more than anyone else. Under Kohli's leadership, India held the No. 1 Test ranking for 42 months, a testament to his aggressive and fearless leadership style.

Michael Atherton echoed Hussain's sentiments, praising Kohli's unwavering commitment to Test cricket. "You couldn't take your eyes off Kohli," Atherton said, adding, "He put his heart and soul into Test cricket, and that energy and passion never seemed to dim." Atherton also acknowledged the challenges faced by Kohli's successor, comparing it to the void left by Sachin Tendulkar.

Kohli's captaincy saw India achieve unprecedented success, including 40 wins in 68 matches. He played a crucial role in developing India's pace attack, enabling the team to win abroad. Hussain emphasized Kohli's relentless pursuit of victory, stating, "He is the ultimate winner, he sees the end goal as a win, and he is desperate for that."

Kohli's retirement may have been influenced by his uncompromising standards. Hussain suggested that Kohli wouldn't settle for anything less than his best, saying, "He can't go on the field and not be a hundred per cent, he can't ever go: 'I'll just do my best today.' That may have formed part of his retirement decision, 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.”

As India moves forward, Kohli's legacy will continue to inspire players and fans alike. His contributions to Test cricket, both as a player and a leader, have left an indelible mark on the game.