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After test retirement, what lies ahead for Kohli?

Published by
Anamika Gottipati

A day after announcing his retirement from Test cricket, Indian cricket icon Virat Kohli was spotted in Vrindavan with his wife, actress Anushka Sharma. The couple visited spiritual leader Swami Premanand Maharaj at Vrindavan Dham to seek his blessings—a place they have frequented over the years. Kohli’s decision to step away from the longest format draws the curtain on a glittering 14-year Test career, during which he emerged as a dominant force across conditions, both as a batter and a captain.

Now at 36, Kohli’s journey enters a new chapter, with several paths ahead—both within cricket and beyond it.

1. Continued focus on ODI cricket

Despite exiting Tests and T20Is, Kohli remains committed to One-Day Internationals (ODIs). His primary target: leading India at the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa. With 13,906 runs and 50 centuries in 295 ODIs, the “Chase Master” continues to be a pivotal figure in India’s white-ball setup. By focusing solely on ODIs, Kohli is expected to manage his workload more efficiently, maintain peak fitness, and extend his international career while chasing another global title.

2. Indian Premier League (IPL) and RCB legacy

Kohli’s allegiance to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) remains rock solid. The highest run-scorer in IPL history, he topped the charts again in IPL 2024 with 661 runs in 13 innings. Despite the league’s temporary suspension in May 2025 due to geopolitical tensions, it is set to resume on May 17, with Kohli expected to be at the forefront of RCB’s title push. Whether as a senior player, captain, or future mentor, his presence in the IPL—and with RCB in particular—remains central to his playing career.

3. Personal and family priorities

Kohli has spoken increasingly about the importance of family. With Anushka Sharma and their children, Vamika and Akaay, he is reportedly considering spending more time at their second home in the UK. His childhood coach has hinted at a possible long-term relocation to London. Kohli has also expressed a desire to travel and enjoy life beyond cricket, suggesting that personal fulfillment will become a bigger focus in the years to come.

4. Business ventures and endorsements

Off the field, Kohli is already a brand powerhouse, with a reported net worth of $126 million. His partnerships with major brands like Puma, Audi, and others are likely to grow further. With over 390 million followers across social media, Kohli is a marketing force. He may also explore ventures in fitness, sports management, or digital media—fields that align with his interests and public image. His entrepreneurial instincts could see him carve a new identity in the business world.

Anamika Gottipati

Anamika Gottipati is a dedicated journalist and storyteller with a keen eye for uncovering the truth. With years of experience in investigative journalism, business reporting, tech news, she is committed to delivering well-researched, unbiased, and engaging news. Passionate about keeping readers informed, Anamika covers everything from breaking headlines to in-depth analyses.

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Published by
Anamika Gottipati
Tags: virat kohli virat kohli retirement