The cricket world was buzzing with speculation after reports emerged that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) might be urging Virat Kohli to reverse his Test retirement decision. However, the former Indian captain has firmly put those rumors to rest with a clear statement following his stellar performance in Ranchi.
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Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Match Performance | 135 runs in 1st ODI vs South Africa |
| Venue | Ranchi |
| Award | Player of the Match |
| Current Status | Playing ODI format only |
| Age | 37 years |
Virat Kohli’s Definitive Statement
After receiving the player of the match award for his magnificent innings, Kohli addressed the retirement speculation directly when questioned by broadcaster Harsha Bhogle. His response left no room for interpretation: “That’s how it’s always going to be – I’m just playing one format of the game now.”
The rumor mill had gone into overdrive following India’s disappointing home series results, with speculation that BCCI officials had reached out to convince the batting legend to return to red-ball cricket. Even former England captain Kevin Pietersen had publicly supported the idea on social media.
The Mental Game Strategy
What makes Kohli’s recent performance particularly impressive is his approach to preparation. Having not played competitive cricket since the Australia tour, he arrived in Ranchi days early for intensive practice sessions—both day and night—to acclimatize properly.
The 37-year-old revealed his success secret: “All my cricket has been mental. I work hard on my fitness, and as long as I am mentally in a good space, I will be able to score the runs.” This mental-first approach has clearly worked, as evidenced by his match-winning knock against South Africa.
Virat Kohli’s Recovery and Longevity
At this stage of his career, Kohli is also highly conscious about recovery management. He emphasized the importance of balancing preparation with physical wellness, stating he needs to look after his recovery at 37. His visualization techniques and intent-focused mindset continue to deliver results when it matters most.
What’s Next?
With Kohli committed to ODI cricket, fans can expect to see him feature in India’s upcoming limited-overs campaigns, including preparations for future ICC tournaments. His recent form suggests he still has plenty to offer in the format he’s chosen to focus on.
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