&imwidth=800&imheight=600&format=webp&quality=medium "RCB star Virat Kohli to retire from IPL? Here's what reports say")
Virat Kohli is undoubtedly one of the best Indian batters to play the game ever. His rise came along with the Indian Premier League (IPL) - a trophy he had to wait for 18 years before winning it in 2025 edition with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). The batter, who has already called time on Tests and T20Is for India, is now reportedly mulling quitting the cash-rich league as well. Kohli has been associated with the franchise since 2008 - the inaugural edition of the league.
Kohli to retire from IPL?
Kohli had been the captain of side for many years but could not get them over the line despite being one of the most successful Indian skippers. RCB and Kohli eventually crossed the line in IPL 2025 by beating Punjab Kings in the final under Rajat Patidar's captaincy. With IPL retention deadline expected to be on November 15, Kohli has refused to sign the commercial contract with the franchise as per RevSportz.
What does it mean?
While it is not clear what refusal of signing a commercial contract means, it could very well be Kohli's first step towards quitting the franchise. Although it might take a couple years and not an immediate decision, Kohli's intent is clear with the move. Former India cricketer Akash Chopra, however, says there's not much to read into the move by Kohli.
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"He has reportedly refused a commercial contract, but what does that mean? He will definitely play for RCB. If he is playing, he is definitely going to turn out for the same franchise. He (Kohli) has just won the trophy. Why will he leave the franchise then? He isn’t going anywhere. What contract can be refused is in the realm of speculation. He might have a dual contract," Chopra said as reported by Inside Sport.
