Why Rumours of Virat Kohli's Retirement from IPL After RCB vs PBKS Final Are Baseless?

Virat Kohli Retirement: As Royal Challengers Bengaluru get ready to face Punjab Kings in the IPL 2025 final at the Narendra Modi Stadium, speculation about Virat Kohli's future in the IPL has once again taken centre stage.

With RCB on the brink of securing their maiden IPL title, whispers have grown louder: Could Kohli walk away from the IPL if RCB finally win? But according to IPL Chairman Arun Dhumal, these rumours hold no water.

When asked about the possibility of Kohli retiring from the IPL if RCB lift the trophy, Dhumal told PTI: "See neither do I think that, nor do I hope that." In fact, Dhumal has gone a step further - urging Kohli to reverse his retirement from Test cricket, not exit another format.

"Virat is the greatest ambassador for cricket. And the kind of commitment he has shown, I would say Virat is to cricket what [Novak] Djokovic or Roger Federer is to tennis. So I would want him to continue playing IPL and I would rather want him to reconsider his decision to retire from Test cricket," Dhumal added.

These aren't casual remarks. Dhumal may not be a current BCCI office-bearer, but as head of the IPL - which functions under the board's umbrella - his comments carry weight. And he's not alone in wanting Kohli to stay.

"Given the fitness that Virat has, he is probably fitter now than he was in the first season, after playing 18 editions of the IPL. And he still comes back with the same kind of energy and commitment to the game. Given his dedication in the first season and the next 17, he is going to come back with the same passion and commitment. Even if RCB wins, I would, and the whole country would want Virat to continue."

With Kohli already having stepped away from T20Is and Tests, concerns about his international future are understandable. But IPL remains a platform where he continues to excel and inspire. His performances this season have been stellar, leading from the front with trademark intensity.

Adding to the broader context, Dhumal also spoke about the next generation, particularly India's newly appointed Test captain Shubman Gill. Kohli's experience and presence will be vital in a transitional period for Indian cricket.

"The kind of leadership he has shown over the last two editions has been phenomenal. Shubman has been a great leader and opener. I wish him all the very best for his Test career. He has a long time on his side, and he'll do his best. IPL has provided great talents like Yashasvi Jaiswal, Rinku Singh," Dhumal said.

As fans gear up for the grand finale tonight, the narrative around Kohli's potential retirement is clearly misplaced. His passion is undimmed, his fitness unmatched, and the game - especially the IPL - still very much his domain.

For now, there's no farewell looming. Just the King, still chasing glory.