Trending

'A broadcast show needs to talk about the game and not...': Virat Kohli's sly dig at broadcasters showing his 'favourite chole-bhature place'

Virat Kohli has assured his fans that he is not retiring from ODIs or Tests. He said he is not playing for milestones but for the love of the game.

Sports Tak

• Sun • 16 Mar 2025

Virat Kohli after India won the ICC Champions Trophy 2025; representational image of chole bhature.

Highlights:

Virat Kohli wants broadcasters to focus on athletes, not their favourite cuisines.

Kohli said that his energy levels are different in late 30s.

Kohli will be seen in action when RCB take on KKR in IPL 2025 opener.

India's veteran batter Virat Kohli has taken a sly dig at the broadcasters for focusing on what he ate yesterday, his favourite place to eat 'chole-bhature' rather than the game. Kohli wants the broadcasters to talk about the athletes and what they are feeling at a given moment instead of showing their favourite cuisines.

"A broadcast show needs to talk about the game and not what I ate yesterday for lunch or my favourite chole-bhature place in Delhi. You can’t have that in cricket matches. Rather, you could talk about what an athlete is going through," Kohli said at the Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s (RCB) Innovation Lab Indian Sports Summit.

At the event, Kohli also assured his fans that he is not retiring from Tests or ODIs.

"Don't get nervous. I'm not making any announcements. As of now everything is fine. I still love playing the game," he said.

Kohli who overcame the lean patch in Australia to be India's second-highest run-scorer in Champions Trophy 2025 title run. The 36-year-old said that he is there to enjoy the game, not go for milestones.

"It's pretty much come down to just the pure joy, enjoyment, competitive streak, and love for the game. And as long as that is there I will continue to play. As I said today I am not playing for any achievement," he said.

ALSO READ: After Champions Trophy 2025 debacle, a new low for Pakistan against New Zealand as new-look team bowled out for 91 in T20I series opener

Kohli on his energy levels in 30s

However, Kohli admitted that it is a lot different to play in his late 30s when compared to the 20s. He said that the players who have played the game for a long time will understand what he is currently feeling.

"I want to be able to have all my energy in place. Now, it takes much more effort as people who have played the game for a long period of time understand. You can't do so many things in your mid to late 30s that you can in your mid 20s. I'm at a bit of a different place in my life as well.

"I think for me it's a natural progression. I'm sure all these young guys will hopefully get to that place. But now, the energy that's coming out of me feels very peaceful and calm," he said.

ALSO READ: Marizanne Kapp breaks down in tears as her 2 for 11 and 26-ball 40 could not lead Delhi Capitals to their maiden WPL title

Kohli has joined the RCB camp ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 opener. He will be seen in action when RCB go up against defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on March 22.