Sports

IIE Digital Desk : Indian batting maestro Virat Kohli has hinted at his impending retirement, stating, "Once I'm done, I'll be gone; you won't see me for a while." This statement, made during a Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) event, underscores Kohli's introspective approach to the twilight of his illustrious career.

Kohli, who has been a stalwart for RCB since the inception of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2008, emphasized his desire to leave the game without any regrets. "I think, as sportsmen, we do have an end date to our careers, so I'm just working backwards," he remarked. "I don't want to finish my career thinking what if I had done this on that particular day because I can't keep going on and on forever." 

Despite being 36, Kohli continues to exhibit exceptional form. In the ongoing IPL 2024 season, he leads the run charts with 661 runs from 13 innings, boasting a strike rate of 155.16 and an average of 66.10. His performance includes five half-centuries and a century, reaffirming his status as one of the game's premier batsmen. 

Kohli's commitment to RCB remains unwavering. He has expressed a desire to continue playing for the franchise until 2027, aiming to complete a 20-year association. "At the end of this cycle, it is going to be 20 years that I am going to be playing for RCB, and that in itself is a very, very special feeling for me," Kohli shared. 

While Kohli has retired from T20 internationals following India's World Cup victory, he remains an integral part of the Indian Test and ODI squads. His recent remarks, however, suggest a contemplative phase as he evaluates his future in the sport. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly aware of his sentiments, with discussions ongoing about his role in upcoming series. 

Fans and cricketing pundits alike are bracing for the eventuality of Kohli's retirement. His departure would mark the end of an era, not just for Indian cricket but for the global cricketing community. Kohli's passion, dedication, and unparalleled skill have left an indelible mark on the sport, inspiring countless aspiring cricketers worldwide.

As the cricketing fraternity comes to terms with Kohli's revelations, one thing remains certain: his legacy will endure, and his contributions to the game will be celebrated for generations to come.