Virat Kohli dismisses retirement rumors and suggests he could continue playing cricket until…

File photo of Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli, the iconic cricketer, was hired by Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for a whopping Rs 21 crore ahead of the IPL 2025 season, cementing his position as the most expensive Indian player in IPL history. RCB’s decision to retain Kohli is not surprising given his long association with the franchise since the inception of the league.

At 35, Kohli is at a turning point in his illustrious career and questions are being raised about how long he will continue to grace the cricketing world with his presence. Despite his decision to retire from T20Is to focus on other formats, concerns have been raised over his recent performances which have not been up to his usual high standards. Team India is under increasing pressure to evaluate the contributions of underperforming players like Kohli and make tough decisions for the future.

Critics were quick to express their views on Kohli’s form and urged him to consider retiring from the game. However, ultimately the decision rests with Kohli himself and his desire to continue playing and improve on the field. In a recent statement, Kohli hinted at his intention to remain competitive in cricket until 2027, sparking speculation about his potential involvement in leading India to victory in the 2027 World Cup.

“At the end of this cycle, I will have played for RCB for 20 years and that in itself is a very, very special feeling for me,” Kohli told RCB Bold Diaries.

“I never thought I would play for the same team for so many years, but over so many years the relationship has really become special,” he added.


Kohli said he doesn’t see himself playing for any other IPL team. “I don’t see myself anywhere other than RCB and I’m really glad this happened. I am very happy that I got the chance to build a new strong team in this auction, which is something we are really looking forward to as a franchise, as a team,” Kohli said in an RCB Bold Diaries video.

Kohli said his goal is to win at least one IPL title with RCB in the upcoming cycle.

“I am very excited because everyone knows what RCB means to me. It’s been a very, very special relationship for so many years that continues to grow stronger and what I experienced playing for RCB is truly special. I hope the fans and everyone involved with the franchise feels the same way,” he continued. I’m looking forward to this series too. Obviously the goal is to win the IPL title at least once in the next cycle.”

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