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India's batting maestro Virat Kohli has sparked speculation about his future in international cricket, hinting at a potential retirement after Men in Blue's Champions Trophy 2025 title triumph. In a candid statement, Kohli hinted that that he might not have another tour of Australia in his career, expressing a sense of contentment with his accomplishments thus far.
Virat Kohli hints at Test retirement
Virat Kohli made this remark during an event at the RCB Innovation Lab Indian Sports summit, after Kohli rejoined the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) franchise in preparation for the upcoming IPL 2025 season. He arrived in Bengaluru on March 15, as the IPL season is scheduled to commence on March 22.
Kohli's comments come against the backdrop of a somewhat underwhelming Test series against Australia. Despite a strong start to the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, marked by a magnificent century in the opening match at Perth Stadium, he subsequently struggled to maintain his form, leading to speculation about his future plans.
Following his century in the first Test against Australia, Kohli hit the rock bottom as he managed only 90 runs in the subsequent four matches. Australian pace bowlers exploited his vulnerabilities in the channel outside off stump, repeatedly inducing edges and leaving Kohli visibly frustrated with his dismissals.
This period of struggle extended beyond the Australian series, as Kohli had also displayed inconsistent form in previous home Test matches. His overall performance in the Test format has seen a noticeable dip since 2020, with his batting average hovering in the mid-20s.
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However, Kohli doesn't feel he can make it to the 2028 Australia tour as he said he is at peace with whatever happened in the past.
"I might not have another Australia tour in me, so I am at peace with whatever happened in the past," Kohli said.
With India's scheduled tour of Australia in 2028, there's growing speculation that Kohli might not be part of the touring squad.
In a separate discussion, Kohli reflected on India's Champions Trophy 2025 title win which came after they gunned down New Zealand in the final in Dubai.
"We as a team adapted to the conditions better than others, hence won the Champions Trophy," he added.
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India's campaign in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 culminated in an emphatic, undefeated victory. Rohit Sharma's brigade clinched their third Champions Trophy title after defeating New Zealand in a closely contested final at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, winning by four wickets. Kohli's contribution was instrumental in India's consecutive ICC title win. Kohli's performance throughout the tournament was exceptional, finishing as India's second-highest run-scorer. He amassed a total of 218 runs across five matches, maintaining a commendable average of 54.50.
Kohli will now shift his focus to the upcoming IPL 2025 season where he will be yet again seen donning the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) jersey. RCB are set to begin their campaign against the defending champions, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), at Eden Gardens on March 22.
