Virat Kohli dropped a surprise on everyone last month by announcing his retirement from Test cricket. After not performing well in Australia, he spent about four months thinking it over before making the call. Arun Dhumal, the current chairman of the Indian Premier League and former BCCI treasurer, really hopes Kohli will rethink his decision. Kohli’s IPL team, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, has made it to the finals for the 2025 season, and Dhumal believes he should stick around, even if they win the trophy.
When asked about Kohli possibly retiring if RCB takes the title, Dhumal told PTI, “I don’t think it will happen, and I don’t want it to happen.” He praised Kohli, saying, “Virat is the best ambassador for cricket. The commitment he has shown over the years is amazing, just like what Djokovic or Federer have done for tennis. I really want him to keep playing in the IPL and rethink the Test retirement.”
Dhumal pointed out that Kohli’s fitness is top-notch, likely better than when he first started playing IPL 18 seasons ago. He’s still bringing the same energy and dedication to the game. He added, “Even if RCB wins, I, along with all the fans, would love to see Virat keep playing.”
RCB reached the finals of IPL 2025 after beating Punjab Kings by 8 wickets in Qualifier 1. This is the fourth time the team will be competing for the title, having previously lost in 2009, 2011, and 2016. They’re still looking for that first championship win.
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