The Royal Challengers Bengaluru fans paid a heartfelt tribute to Indian Football Team captain Sunil Chhetri. The fans unfurled a huge banner honouring the skipper who had announced his retirement from international duty during the RCB vs CSK match at the M Chinnaswamy stadium in Bengaluru.
The beautiful banner had pictures of Sunil Chhetri and RCB star Virat Kohli, with a heartfelt message. It was in full display ahead of the game.
‘Thank you Skipper Sunil Chhetri‘ the banner read.
Sunil Chhetri retires from the Indian Football Team
After 19 years of a glorious career, Indian Football Team captain Sunil Chhetri announced his retirement from international duty on Thursday. The skipper posted an emotional video stating that India’s World Cup qualifier game against Kuwait in Kolkata will be his last.
On June 12, 2005, the 39-year-old striker made his international debut against Pakistan, scoring his first goal for India. 19 years later, Chhetri is third among active players to have scored the most number of international goals (94 in 150), following only Argentine hero Lionel Messi (106 in 180 matches) and Portuguese legend Cristiano Ronaldo (128 in 205). During his stellar career, Chhetri won the AIFF Player of the Year award six times, as well as the Arjuna Award in 2011, the Padma Shri in 2019, and the Khel Ratna in 2021.
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Virat Kohli reveals Sunil Chhetri’s message ahead of retirement
RCB star Virat Kohli also wished Sunil Chhetri on his retirement. The former India captain wrote a short and sweet message for the Blue Tigers skipper. Kohli has a great relationship with Sunil Chhetri. Kohli and Chhetri, India’s two most sought-after stars, have always been united by their exceptional fitness standards and enthusiasm for their nation and sport. The 35-year-old regularly invited him to Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) training sessions.
In an interview with the RCB Insider Show, Kohli lauded Chhetri’s modesty and stated that the football legend was satisfied with his decision to retire. Kohli also said that great Indian player Sunil Chhetri messaged him before declaring his retirement from international football.
“He is a really dear friend. He actually messaged me as well, informing me that he was going to do it. But I would say that he felt like he is at peace with the decision. I have become really close with him over the years and wish him nothing but the best. He is a lovely lovely guy,” Kohli said on the RCB Insider Show.
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