Former England captain Michael Vaughan said that India’s star batter Virat Kohli has the potential to play for several years, with retirement being an option if he wants privacy with his family. However, Kohli is coming off sublime form in IPL 2024, leading the way with 741 runs at an average of 61.75 in 15 games as well. Kohli is also part of India’s squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup in the West Indies and U.S.A. However, at 35, Kohli’s retirement has become a discussion point among fans and experts as well.
Talking to Cricbuzz after the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) were knocked out of the IPL, Vaughan said: “During his time away from the India vs England Test series, I believe he went to London and led a normal life. I’ve read a few of his comments and quotes and he just absolutely adored that normal life. I think that may take Virat away from cricket, like he just wants to go and have a quiet time for a while.”
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“A brilliant season (IPL 2024). You talk about retirement with Virat Kohli, I look at this in a way that he can play for long. He is that fit. Unless his mind goes and he’s obviously got a young family now. In two-three years’ time, everything changes, and he just wants to spend quiet time; I completely get that,” he added.
During the 2023 World Cup, Virat Kohli became the first batter in history to reach 50 ODI centuries, going past the batting maestro Sachin Tendulkar’s record of 49 tons as well. The veteran has also scored over 27,000 international runs with 80 centuries in his 16-year career. Michael Vaughan further praised Kohli for his ability to evolve as well.
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“He is a class act. His game is obviously up there with the greats of the game, but the way that he has gone up a gear to stay afloat in this modern era of T20 cricket is exactly what you need. He’s got the game, the mindset, the work ethic that he would have had to put in the nets to work on that sweep shot,” concluded Michael Vaughan. “I love his energy. He causes a bit of chaos in the game; he gives it to the camera and keeps fingers on his mouth to shut them up now and again, but sports need such characters. Those who can keep you going, keep you on the edge of your seat, cause a little controversy.”
