Ashish Nehra one of the smartest cricketers I have played with: Virat Kohli

NEW DELHI: India captain Virat Kohli today paid rich tributes to the retiring Ashish Nehra as "one of the smartest cricketers" he has ever played with.

The first T20 International is Nehra's final international match of a career that started way back in 1999.

"Nineteen years as a fast bowler is a great achievement. One of the smartest guys I've played with, always loves helping youngsters. He is someone who knew what to do in specific situations. Sad to see him go but it is happening at his home ground," Kohli said.

During the pre-match training session, Kohli and MS Dhoni presented Nehra with a memento on behalf of team India.