After the impressive five-wicket victory against Lucknow Super Giants, Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) star batsman Virat Kohli addressed the team in the dressing room. In a video shared by RCB, Kohli praised the players for their professional demeanor and aggressive play.

He noted that the team maintained pressure on the opposition from the start of the match and that the way they countered after Phil Salt's dismissal left Lucknow with no chance to recover. With this win, RCB has recorded four victories in five matches, placing them at the top of the points table. RCB chased down the target of 147 runs in just 15.1 overs, but Kohli expressed dissatisfaction with some areas of the team's performance.

He stated that he does not like to see batting collapses and emphasized that given the start the team had, the match should have been finished with only two or three wickets lost. Kohli expressed concern over the quick wickets lost in the middle order and advised the batsmen to play more responsibly in the future. He praised Rajat Patidar's innings, highlighting that he chose the right shots under pressure, which helped the team maintain control of the match.

Kohli also expressed happiness over Romario Shepherd getting a chance to bat and finishing the match. He concluded by motivating the team, stating that every player is getting the opportunity to play their role, which is a good sign for the long tournament ahead. RCB is now prepared to maintain this momentum and discipline as they aim for the title in their upcoming matches.

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Despite a remarkable victory against Mumbai Indians, Royal Challengers Bangalore's star batsman Virat Kohli is in the spotlight. During the match, after being caught out off a full toss from Hardik Pandya, Kohli appeared extremely disappointed.

A video that has gone viral on social media shows him angrily throwing his gloves and helmet to the ground while returning to the pavilion. Although Kohli played a crucial innings of 50 runs off 38 balls, his frustration over how he got out was evident in his behavior. Following this incident, Kohli faces the possibility of disciplinary action from the BCCI.

Under Article 2.2 of the IPL Code of Conduct, damaging cricket equipment or items on the field during a match is considered a Level 1 offense. Sports experts believe that Kohli could be fined 10 to 25 percent of his match fee and may also receive a demerit point. Currently, the official report from the match referee is awaited, after which a decision on the punishment will be made.

Amidst the controversies, Virat Kohli has also achieved a significant milestone, becoming the first batsman in the world to score 1000 runs (combined in IPL and Champions League) against Mumbai Indians. Kohli has scored 1030 runs in 37 matches against Mumbai.

In the match, RCB set a massive score of 240 runs, thanks to aggressive innings from Phil Salt (78) and captain Rajat Patidar (53). In response, Mumbai could only manage 222 runs, and RCB won the match by 18 runs, strengthening their position.

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Dubai, December 3. Star Indian batter Virat Kohli has climbed to the fourth position in the latest International Cricket Council ODI batting rankings released on Wednesday following his match-winning century in the first One Day International against South Africa in Ranchi.

Kohli played an innings of 135 runs off 120 balls against South Africa on Sunday, which was his 52nd century in the 50-over format. His innings helped India secure a victory by 17 runs. As per agency report, the 37-year-old Kohli now has 751 ranking points. He remains behind former Indian captain Rohit Sharma, who retains the top spot with 783 points, New Zealand's Daryl Mitchell with 766 points, and Afghanistan's Ibrahim Zadran with 764 points.

Kohli surpassed India's ODI captain Shubman Gill, who slipped to the fifth position as he is out of the current three-match series against South Africa due to a neck injury. Shreyas Iyer, who is recovering from an injury sustained during India's limited-overs tour of Australia, remains in the ninth position. In the list of bowlers, left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav moved up one place to the sixth spot after taking four wickets in the first match against South Africa.

In the list of Test batters, Indian opener Yashasvi Jaiswal remains in the ninth position, while Gill dropped one place to the 12th spot. Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant also slipped from the 12th to the 14th position. Among Test bowlers, India's top pacer Jasprit Bumrah retains the top spot with 879 points. He holds a 33-point lead over New Zealand fast bowler Matt Henry, who has 846 points.

Following a weak performance in the two-match Test series against South Africa, fast bowler Mohammed Siraj slipped from the 11th to the 13th position, while Kuldeep dropped from the 13th to the 15th spot. In the T20 International rankings, India's Abhishek Sharma and Varun Chakravarthy have maintained their top positions in the batting and bowling rankings respectively.

Raipur, December 2. Amidst rumors regarding the atmosphere in the dressing room, India's hopes of winning the second ODI against South Africa on Wednesday and sealing the series will largely depend on the magnificent form of Virat Kohli and the commanding presence of Rohit Sharma. India defeated South Africa by 17 runs in the first match held in Ranchi, powered by Kohli's 52nd ODI century and an aggressive 57-run knock by Rohit.

With the ODI World Cup 2027 still two years away, every match serves as a platform for Kohli and Rohit to prove their fitness and form, though the issue of reported growing differences with Head Coach Gautam Gambhir remains a significant talking point. As per agency report, amidst the speculations surrounding this matter, it appears that the BCCI may need to intervene at some stage. The duo has strengthened their claim for the World Cup in South Africa, having been the architects of India's victories in the last two ODIs, including a nine-wicket win over Australia in Sydney in October where Rohit performed brilliantly. The silence from Selection Committee Head Ajit Agarkar and Gambhir regarding the participation of these two veterans in the World Cup could be a potential reason for the underlying tension.

Despite winning the first match, concerns remain for the Indian team regarding their middle order and bowling execution. Ruturaj Gaikwad, who performed effectively in List A cricket, was sent in at number four but did not appear ready for the role, while stand-in captain KL Rahul batted at number six. Washington Sundar, who has become accustomed to experiments in the batting order, was sent in at number five after batting at number three in the Kolkata Test against South Africa, but he failed to play a substantial innings and bowled only three overs conceding 18 runs. In the pace department, Harshit Rana took two wickets with the new ball but conceded many runs later, an area requiring control especially under the new ICC rule where only one of the two available balls can be used between the 34th and 50th overs. Kuldeep Yadav claimed four wickets for 68 runs, proving expensive but effective with his variations which ultimately halted South Africa's comeback attempt.

South Africa had lost three wickets for just 11 runs in the previous encounter before staging a remarkable recovery, with Marco Jansen scoring 70 off 39 balls and Matthew Breetzke scoring 72 runs in his first ODI against India. The visiting team played the first ODI without captain Temba Bavuma and spinner Keshav Maharaj, who were rested, but their return is expected to strengthen the squad for the upcoming match. The Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh Stadium has hosted only one ODI previously in January 2023, where Indian pacers utilized the seam movement to bowl out New Zealand for 108 runs, leading to an eight-wicket victory. The match is scheduled to begin at 1:30 PM.

Kolkata, August 10 – Former India captain Sourav Ganguly has described the One-Day International records of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli as exceptional, saying the two stalwarts should continue playing the 50-over format as long as their performances remain strong.

Speculation in sections of the media has suggested that the upcoming tour of Australia could be their last in ODIs. When asked about this, Ganguly said he had no information on such matters and therefore could not comment. However, he emphasised that performance should be the key factor in deciding the length of their careers.

According to Ganguly, anyone performing well should keep playing. He praised both Kohli and Rohit for their achievements in limited-overs cricket, calling their records in the format extraordinary. Both players have retired from Tests and T20 Internationals but have not yet clarified their plans for the 2027 World Cup.

India’s ODI series in Australia will begin on October 19, with matches scheduled in Perth, Adelaide, and Sydney. This will be followed by a home series against South Africa in December, consisting of three ODIs. In 2026, the Indian team is also set to play two ODI series against New Zealand and further series against Afghanistan, England, and the West Indies.

As per agency report, speaking about the upcoming T20 Asia Cup starting in Dubai on September 9, Ganguly called India strong contenders for the title. He noted that the break after five demanding Test matches in England was much-needed for the players, who had also played in the IPL before the Tests. He believes India’s ODI side is even stronger than its Test unit and will be very difficult to beat on Dubai pitches.

On Shubman Gill’s future as Test captain, Ganguly praised the young leader and said he has a bright future ahead. He also revealed his readiness to return to cricket administration, confirming that he will file his nomination for the post of Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) president if members wish so. Ganguly previously served as CAB president from mid-2015 until October 2019 before taking over as president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

New Delhi, May 15 – Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar believes there is no reason for concern following the retirement of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli from Test cricket, noting that Indian cricket had previously recovered strongly after the retirement of the celebrated 'Fab Four'.

In the span of just one week, Indian cricket bid farewell to two modern-day greats, Rohit and Kohli, as they stepped away from the longest format of the game. Their departure has stirred anxiety among fans, but Manjrekar compared the current scenario to the retirement of the iconic quartet of Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, VVS Laxman, and Sourav Ganguly.

As per agency report, Manjrekar shared his views through a video message on Instagram, recalling that similar concerns had emerged when the Fab Four exited international cricket. However, he pointed out that within a few years of their departure, India rose to become the number one Test team in the world.

He emphasized that as long as cricket remains popular in India, there will always be a steady influx of young, eager, and highly talented players vying for a spot in the national team. He added that the journey to the top is far from easy, ensuring that only truly exceptional individuals make it to the Indian squad.

Manjrekar acknowledged that the transition will take time, but insisted there is no need to panic. He highlighted how India’s bowling attack improved after the previous generation retired, expressing confidence that a similar evolution could unfold again, with new stars and bowlers emerging to take the team forward.

Reflecting on the current team, he noted that even when Kohli and Rohit were part of the lineup, India faced defeats—such as the 3-0 loss to New Zealand at home and a disappointing series in Australia. According to him, the new Indian team now has nothing to lose and should be given full support as it embarks on a fresh chapter.

Manjrekar concluded by extending his best wishes to the upcoming Indian Test team, underlining that India will continue to be among the top cricketing nations despite this transitional phase.

Mathura, May 13 — A day after announcing his retirement from Test cricket, Indian cricket star Virat Kohli, accompanied by his wife and actress Anushka Sharma, visited the revered spiritual leader Premanand Govind Sharan Ji Maharaj at his ashram in Vrindavan.

As per agency report, Kohli and Sharma arrived at the ashram early Tuesday morning and stayed for approximately three and a half hours. A video shared on social media platform X showed the couple receiving blessings from the spiritual leader and engaging in a brief conversation, during which the saint inquired if Kohli was happy following his recent decision.

This marked Kohli’s third visit to the ashram, having previously visited on January 10 earlier this year and once before on January 4, 2023. During their time at the ashram, the couple maintained a low profile, arriving in an Innova vehicle with face masks on for privacy.

Sources from the ashram confirmed that following their interaction with Sant Premanand, the couple toured the premises and gathered information about various activities and initiatives run by the ashram. Before departing, they also visited the nearby Varaha Ghat to pay respects at the shrine of Sant Premanand’s spiritual mentor, Gaurangi Sharan Maharaj.

Kohli’s visit came shortly after his emotional farewell to the longest format of the game, in which he played 123 Test matches and earned recognition as one of India’s most successful captains. The visit to the spiritual retreat seemed to be a moment of peace and reflection for the cricketing legend and his wife.

New Delhi, May 13 — Former Indian captain and legendary spinner Anil Kumble has expressed surprise at the sudden and quiet exit of veteran batsmen Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma from Test cricket, just weeks before India's tour of England. Speaking in an interview, Kumble stated that players of such stature deserved a farewell on the field, in front of their fans.

Kohli announced his retirement from Test cricket on Monday, having amassed 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85, including 30 centuries across 123 Tests. His decision followed Rohit Sharma's announcement just days earlier, marking an end to an era in Indian red-ball cricket.

Kumble noted that while it is a player’s personal decision, it was unexpected given their continued importance to the team. He said it was surprising to see both stalwarts bow out so closely together and in such a quiet manner. As per agency report, Kumble emphasized that fans would have appreciated witnessing their farewell on the field rather than through social media updates.

The former India coach further commented that this pattern also echoed during the retirement of off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin, who had stepped away from the format mid-series and returned home. Kumble believes such players, who have given so much to Indian cricket, should ideally have had the opportunity to exit the game amidst applause and acknowledgment from the crowd.

Reflecting on the upcoming five-match Test series in England, set to begin on June 20, Kumble remarked that Kohli’s presence could have played a crucial role in such a challenging tour. He felt that one of either Kohli or Rohit should have continued at least through this series to lend experience and leadership to the team.

In the wake of Kohli's announcement, several current and former cricketers paid tribute to his contributions to Indian cricket. Fast bowler Mohammed Siraj praised Kohli for inspiring countless players and said the dressing room would not feel the same without him. He thanked the senior batsman for his constant support and guidance.

Veteran pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar also acknowledged Kohli’s impact, particularly his aggressive leadership in Test cricket. He credited Kohli for bringing a transformative approach to the team and underlined the importance of that aggression in the traditional format of the game.

With Kohli and Rohit’s exits, and Ashwin already retired, Indian Test cricket enters a new phase, and as Kumble suggested, it’s a transition that perhaps deserved a more fitting public farewell for three of its modern legends.

New Delhi, May 12 — Indian cricketing legend Virat Kohli has announced his retirement from Test cricket, ending a remarkable chapter in Indian cricket history that spanned over 14 years. The 36-year-old, who had previously stepped away from T20 internationals, will now focus solely on One Day Internationals (ODIs).

As per agency report, Kohli made the announcement via his social media account on Monday, expressing gratitude for the journey he had in the longest format of the game. His retirement brings the curtain down on a glittering red-ball career that saw him play 123 Test matches, score 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85, and notch up 30 centuries including seven double tons — the most by any Indian batter.

Kohli, known for his intense passion and commitment to Test cricket during the dominance of T20 leagues, played a pivotal role in promoting the traditional format globally. His leadership and performance helped India become the top-ranked Test team, including scripting a historic Test series victory in Australia in 2018–19.

The decision, while not entirely unexpected, comes after speculation surrounding his Test future grew following a modest run during the recent Australian tour. Kohli’s final Test series saw him register just one century and miss the 10,000-run milestone, a target once deemed inevitable for the prolific right-hander.

In his farewell note, Kohli reflected on his journey, calling his time in whites a deeply personal experience filled with challenges, growth, and invaluable lessons. He emphasized that while walking away from the format wasn’t easy, it felt like the right decision. He said that wearing the Indian Test cap for the first time 14 years ago marked the beginning of a journey that shaped his career and life.

Kohli's influence on the format extended beyond numbers. His aggressive style, reminiscent of West Indian great Sir Vivian Richards, captivated audiences and kept the flame of Test cricket alive amid the rise of T20 leagues. Despite mellowing in recent years, his charisma continued to draw fans to stadiums and television screens alike.

With Kohli’s departure, Indian Test cricket bids farewell to another stalwart following the recent retirements of captain Rohit Sharma and off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin. Kohli, however, is expected to continue in the ODI format at least until the 2027 World Cup. His recent performances, including a century against Pakistan and a crucial 84 against Australia during the Champions Trophy, reaffirmed his enduring value in the 50-over game.

Throughout his career, Kohli delivered some of his best Test performances between 2016 and 2018, averaging over 75 in consecutive years and scoring nearly half of his centuries during this period. His leadership tenure ended in 2022 after a series loss in South Africa, following which he stepped down citing the mental toll of captaincy.

Tributes poured in from all quarters. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) praised Kohli's unparalleled contribution to Indian cricket, stating that his legacy will endure. The board acknowledged the impact of his achievements and his pivotal role in shaping Indian cricket’s modern era.

Kohli’s retirement from Test cricket marks the end of a golden era. It also highlights the challenges traditional cricket faces in the modern era, as even its staunchest advocates begin to step aside, leaving behind records, memories, and a rich legacy for the next generation.

New Delhi, May 10 – Rising star Shubman Gill is being considered as the new captain of the Indian Test team, with wicketkeeper-batsman Rishabh Pant likely to serve as his deputy, as per sources within the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). This leadership reshuffle comes amid growing speculation over the future of senior stalwarts like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma in the traditional format.

While no official announcement has been made, sources indicate that the selectors see Gill as the long-term choice to lead the Test side, especially following Rohit Sharma’s retirement from the format. Pant, one of India’s most successful Test batsmen in overseas conditions with centuries in Australia, England, and South Africa and an average exceeding 42, is reportedly the frontrunner for vice-captaincy. Jasprit Bumrah, although highly respected, is not being considered for a leadership role due to recurring fitness concerns and uncertainty over his availability for an entire Test series.

According to BCCI insiders, there was serious deliberation over asking Virat Kohli to captain the side for the challenging five-match series in England, allowing Gill more time to develop. However, Kohli has not made any official statement regarding his future in Test cricket, and it remains unclear whether he will participate in the England series at all.

Both BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia and chairman of selectors Ajit Agarkar have declined to comment on the matter. Despite public curiosity, the board has maintained silence over any direct discussions with Kohli about his retirement or leadership role.

A senior BCCI official revealed that Kohli’s experience was viewed as crucial for the England tour, especially in the absence of Rohit Sharma. However, with uncertainty surrounding Kohli’s availability, the selectors now appear inclined to hand the reins to Gill, who they believe represents the next generation of leadership.

KL Rahul, despite his international experience and recent form in Australia, is not being seen as a viable leadership candidate due to his inconsistency and age. His average of under 35 after 50 Tests hasn’t impressed the selectors enough for a prominent leadership role.

The Indian squad for the England tour is expected to be announced by the end of May’s third week, with the India A team to be finalized earlier. Tamil Nadu’s left-handed batsman Sai Sudharsan is likely to earn his maiden Test call-up, following an impressive run of form. He is expected to slot in as an opener or at No. 3 in the batting order, depending on the final team composition.

As India prepares for its next overseas Test challenge, the focus now shifts to a younger leadership core, while questions around Kohli’s future remain unanswered by the board.

New Delhi, May 6 – Indian cricket team’s head coach Gautam Gambhir stated on Tuesday that senior players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli should continue playing for the national team as long as they are performing well. However, he also clarified that he would have no say in their selection for the upcoming Test series in England.

Amid growing speculation about Rohit Sharma’s future as Test captain ahead of India’s tour of England, and subtle concerns about Kohli’s long-term presence in the team, Gambhir remained diplomatic while addressing their roles. Speaking at the ‘India at 2047’ summit hosted by ABP News, he emphasized that team selection falls under the purview of selectors, not the coach.

As per agency report, Gambhir explained that the coach's responsibility is limited to deciding the playing eleven from the squad chosen by selectors. He noted that previous coaches were never part of the selection committee, and the same applies to him.

When further pressed on the issue, Gambhir responded that as long as Sharma and Kohli continue to perform well, they deserve to remain in the team. He added that decisions about when to start or end a playing career are personal, and no coach, selector, or even the BCCI can dictate that.

He went on to say that if a player continues to contribute effectively, there should be no restriction based on age, suggesting that one could even play until 45 if fitness and form are maintained.

India is scheduled to tour England for a five-match Test series beginning on June 20. While Gambhir did not commit to a stance on the duo's future in the Test format, he did express optimism about their potential participation in the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa, depending entirely on their performance in the lead-up to the tournament.

Reflecting on their recent form, Gambhir acknowledged their strong showing in the Champions Trophy, contrasting it with the criticism they faced during the Australia tour for underwhelming performances in Tests.

He also dismissed the notion of planned farewells, arguing that players do not play the game with the expectation of a grand send-off. Instead, he urged that the focus should be on remembering the impact and contributions made by players to the country’s victories.

Gambhir concluded by saying that whether or not a formal farewell is given is insignificant in the grand scheme. The real honor, he said, lies in the love and respect of the country’s people — a far greater reward than any farewell ceremony.

Bengaluru, April 11, 2025 – Renowned as a "run machine" across the cricketing world, Virat Kohli added yet another feather to his cap in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 season. Despite Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) facing defeat against Delhi Capitals at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on Thursday, Kohli reached a historic personal milestone by becoming the first player in IPL history to hit a combined total of 1000 boundaries, including fours and sixes.

The landmark moment came during the fourth over of RCB’s innings, when Kohli launched a towering six over long-on off Delhi Capitals skipper Axar Patel. With this, Kohli’s tally reached 1001 boundaries, comprising 721 fours and 280 sixes across all 18 IPL seasons he has participated in. He continues to lead the charts for most fours in the tournament’s history, while ranking third in sixes behind Chris Gayle (357) and Rohit Sharma (282).

As per agency report, Kohli’s record-setting performance, however, was overshadowed by KL Rahul’s match-winning knock. Rahul scored an unbeaten 93 off 53 balls, guiding Delhi Capitals to a six-wicket win in a dramatic comeback chase. Delhi, which had slumped to 58 for 4 while chasing a target of 164, was steadied by Rahul’s partnership with Tristan Stubbs.

Stubbs contributed a vital 38 not out from 23 deliveries, and the duo added an unbeaten 111-run stand for the fifth wicket – the highest ever for Delhi Capitals in IPL history. Rahul’s aggressive innings featured seven fours and six sixes, sealing victory with 13 balls to spare.

Earlier, RCB had managed to post a competitive total of 163 runs, thanks to a strong start from Phil Salt and Virat Kohli. However, the momentum was slowed down mid-innings by Delhi’s spin duo, Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav, who applied pressure and took key wickets to restrict the scoring rate.

Despite the team’s loss, Kohli’s milestone remains a testament to his enduring legacy in the IPL. His consistency and longevity in the tournament continue to set benchmarks for aspiring cricketers.