“They Deserved That Respect”: Panesar on Kohli, Rohit, Ashwin’s Absent Farewell Tests
Monty Panesar says BCCI missed a chance to honor Kohli, Rohit, and Ashwin properly.
Former England spinner Monty Panesar has criticized the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for not organizing farewell Test matches for three modern Indian greats—Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Ravichandran Ashwin—calling it a missed opportunity to honor their contributions. Speaking to IANS on January 2, 2026, Panesar drew a sharp contrast with England's tradition of giving legends like Stuart Broad and James Anderson memorable send-offs in front of home crowds. He argued that the trio deserved similar respect, especially given their long-standing impact on Indian and world cricket.
Kohli and Rohit retired from Test cricket in May 2025, while Ashwin called time on his international career after the third Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia in December 2024. Panesar highlighted the emotional and symbolic importance of a dedicated farewell test, saying, "The BCCI should have planned farewell test matches for R Ashwin, Rohit Sharma, and Virat Kohli. They deserved that respect." He pointed out that England ensures its retiring stars receive a grand stage at home, a practice he believes India should adopt to celebrate its legends properly.
Kohli concluded his Test career with 9,230 runs in 123 matches at an average of 46.85, including 30 centuries and 31 fifties, and ranks among the most successful Test captains in history. Rohit scored 4,301 Test runs at 40.57, with 12 centuries, and led India to the 2023 World Test Championship final. Ashwin, one of India's greatest spinners, finished with 537 Test wickets at an average of 24, six centuries with the bat, and was instrumental in multiple ICC title wins, including the 2011 World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy.
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Panesar’s comments have reignited debate among fans and former players about how the BCCI handles retirements of its biggest stars. While India has occasionally arranged emotional farewells, critics argue the absence of planned Test send-offs for such iconic figures falls short of global standards. The discussion comes at a time when Indian cricket continues to reflect on the transition after the Test retirements of its modern giants, leaving many to wonder if a dedicated farewell would have provided a fitting closure to their red-ball legacies.
The remarks also highlight differing approaches to player recognition across cricket boards. England’s tradition of honoring retiring players with high-profile home Tests has often created iconic moments, while India’s approach has been more low-key in recent years. As cricket fans reflect on the careers of Kohli, Rohit, and Ashwin, Panesar’s call for a more celebratory farewell resonates with those who feel the trio’s contributions warranted a grander stage for their final bows in the longest format.
