The weekend was a stressful one for Virat Kohli fans, as whispers turned into roaring speculation: Is Kohli walking away from the IPL? And could it happen before even MS Dhoni hangs up his boots? Let’s break it down.
The Contract That Wasn't
Before IPL 2026 kicks off, Kohli is expected to renew his brand association contract with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). But here’s the twist - he hasn’t. And that's exactly what's fueling the retirement rumours.
Insiders claim Kohli has asked RCB to start planning their future without his presence being front and center. Yes, that means no more "face of the franchise" role.
Captaincy? No Thanks.
If you think this is a sudden development, think again. Before the last mega auction, RCB reportedly wanted to bring Kohli back as captain. But he declined. Instead, Rajat Patidar was handed the reins - a move that was supported by Kohli and he backed him throughout the season. The result? RCB clinched their maiden IPL title.
RCB Exit = IPL Exit?
Here’s the million-dollar question: If he doesn’t renew with RCB, does that mean he’s done with the IPL?
Technically, no. He could sign with a new team. Realistically? Highly unlikely. Kohli has been a one-franchise man since the inaugural season in 2008. Leaving RCB would be like leaving behind a piece of his soul, and we all know what this team means to him.
What’s Next for Kohli?
One thing is certain: Kohli won’t linger in the game for long once he calls time on his ODI career as well. So, whether it’s the RCB jersey or international blues, every time you see him walk onto the field, cherish it. Because this era is inching toward its final overs.
Virat Kohli IPL records
Virat Kohli has featured in 267 matches over 18 seasons for RCB, batting in 259 innings and amassing 8,661 runs at an impressive average of 39.55 and a strike rate of 132.86. His tally includes 8 centuries, and 63 half-centuries, with a highest score of an unbeaten 113.
Kohli currently holds multiple IPL records - most matches for a single franchise, most runs, most fifties, most hundreds, most 50+ scores, and the most runs in a single season. He’s also the only batter to have scored over 600 runs in five different editions.
A true IPL icon, Kohli's legacy is unmatched and fans will be hoping to see that legacy continue into IPL 2026.
Also Watch: Yashasvi Jaiswal: Ignored in T20Is and ODIs, unstoppable in Tests
