Amid the retirement buzz, IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal addressed the speculation in an interview with PTI. When asked if the 2025 season might be Kohli’s last, Dhumal said, “The fitness that Virat has is probably even fitter than he was in Season 1. I want him to continue playing, even after RCB lifts the trophy. The whole country wants that.”
He went on to praise Kohli’s stature in the game, “Virat is the greatest ambassador for cricket. His commitment to the game is at par with Federer or Djokovic in tennis. I hope he reconsiders his Test retirement, and hope he stays in the IPL.” Dhumal was first appointed IPL Chairman in 2022, later being re-elected for another term. Prior to working in the IPL, he had also served as Treasurer of the BCCI.
Virat Kohli has showcased exceptional consistency throughout the IPL 2025 season, regularly providing strong starts at the top of the order alongside opening partner Phil Salt. The experienced batter has secured 614 runs across 14 matches, maintaining a remarkable strike rate of 146.53 and an impressive batting average of 55.81.
Kohli has continued to be the foundation of RCB’s batting unit, anchoring innings and guiding younger players. His presence has been instrumental in the development and confidence of key middle-order contributors like captain Rajat Patidar, wicketkeeper Jitesh Sharma, and all-rounder Krunal Pandya.
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