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Following his brilliant 135 in India’s series-opening ODI win over South Africa in Ranchi, Virat Kohli categorically shut down speculation about a possible return to Test cricket. Reports had suggested that the BCCI might persuade senior players – Kohli and Rohit Sharma – to reconsider retirement after India’s 0-2 Test whitewash in late November. But the former Test captain firmly dismissed any talk of a reversal.
ODI commitment clear as Virat Kohli reinforces single-format focus
During the post-match presentation, Kohli addressed the chatter bluntly: “That’s how it’s always going to be – I’m just playing one format now.” His statement reaffirmed the retirement he announced in May 2025, stepping away from Tests after 123 matches and 9,230 runs, one of the most illustrious red-ball careers in modern cricket.
Kohli’s comments leave no ambiguity: his international future lies strictly in ODIs, where he averages more than 58 at home and continues to rank among the world’s most consistent batters. He made clear that there is no pressure or expectation from him regarding the 2027 World Cup or the next WTC cycle, shutting down speculation that India’s transition phase might force a rethink.
His match-winning century – his 52th ODI ton – served as the perfect backdrop to reiterate his white-ball priorities.
Early arrival in Ranchi and mental preparation key to Kohli’s success in the first ODI
Kohli revealed that he had not played competitive cricket since the Australia tour, prompting him to arrive in Ranchi several days early. He trained in both day and night sessions to reacclimatise to match intensity. The preparation paid off immediately.
Discussing his process, he said: “Today was really nice to get into the game. The pitch was playing well early before slowing down. I was just trying to hit the ball and not overthink. Once you get a start, you know what to do.”
He highlighted what has long been the foundation of his cricketing philosophy: “I’ve never been a big believer in too much preparation. All my cricket has been mental. As long as I’m in a good headspace, I’ll score runs. I’m 37 now, so recovery matters. I visualise myself being intent and sharp.”
BCCI calls rumours “baseless” as Kohli stays firm
Amid speculation that the BCCI was exploring a senior return to bolster India’s injury-hit Test squad, secretary Devjit Saikia dismissed the chatter as “mere rumors.” Kohli’s own comments further removed any possibility of a U-turn, emphasising that his Test chapter had closed for reasons of personal timing and long-term well-being.
His decision to retire ahead of the 2025 England tour stemmed from emotional and mental considerations. While India’s recent Test defeats reignited the debate, Kohli’s Ranchi masterclass showcased exactly why he is choosing 50-overs cricket as his primary domain.
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