Is Virat Kohli’s international career nearing its end, or is this the dawn of a new chapter? Only time will tell. Kohli, one of India’s biggest cricketing icons, seems to be at a crossroads.
As he approaches the twilight of his career, thoughts about the future may be on his mind. While attending Royal Challengers Bangalore’s (RCB) ‘Innovation Lab’ event in Bengaluru, he gave a subtle hint about what lies ahead.
“Another tour of Australia may no longer be possible for me. That’s why I have no regrets about the past,” Kohli remarked. This single statement sent ripples across the cricketing world. But does this mean the farewell bell has truly begun to toll?
Before speculation could spread, Kohli reassured his fans with a smile. “Don’t worry, I’m not announcing anything. Everything is fine, and I’m still enjoying the game,” he said. His words reflected a sense of peace and fulfillment. For him, cricket is no longer about records or personal achievements—it’s about the pure joy of playing. “Now, I play simply for the love of the game, not for any milestones,” he added.
At 36, staying at the top requires extra effort. Has the thought of retirement crossed his mind? Kohli recalled a conversation with former coach Rahul Dravid, where the topic came up.
“Dravid once advised me to stay connected with myself and understand where I stand in life. Retirement isn’t a straightforward decision,” Kohli shared. He acknowledges that the body that once handled every challenge with ease in his 20s doesn’t respond the same way in his 30s. “Now, I have to work much harder than before. The game becomes tougher with age, and I find myself in a different phase of life,” he admitted.
In 2014, after a disappointing England tour, Kohli staged a remarkable comeback in 2018. Will he have the chance to do it again? He responded, “After struggling in 2014, I was able to make a strong return in 2018. This time, that might not happen.”
So, is this truly the end of Kohli’s international career, or is he preparing for a fresh start? The answer remains hidden in the course of time.
