Virat Kohli has officially silenced retirement rumours that had been swirling ever since a photo of him with a white beard went viral. With just two months to go before India’s ODI series against Australia, the former Indian captain is back in training and has shared a sneak peek from the nets in London on his official Instagram account.
The last time Kohli featured for India was in the 2025 Champions Trophy, where he played a vital role in guiding the team to glory against New Zealand in the final. The 36-year-old amassed 218 runs in five matches at an average of 54.50, including a match-winning unbeaten century. His contributions were instrumental in India lifting the trophy, further cementing his reputation as one of the game’s greatest.
Kohli’s latest post — taken alongside Gujarat Titans assistant coach Naeem Amin — hinted at his preparation for a highly anticipated comeback this October. The image quickly went viral, especially after a popular fan account captioned it, “Virat Kohli prepping for the Aussie ODIs!” and Kohli himself liked the post, sending his supporters into a frenzy.
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Away from cricket, Kohli has been spotted at Wimbledon and at a charity event hosted by Yuvraj Singh in London. Notably, he has remained out of the spotlight during the Anderson–Tendulkar Trophy 2025, focusing instead on his fitness and training.
However, reports suggest Kohli’s future in the 50-over format isn’t entirely secure. According to PTI, neither Kohli nor Rohit Sharma is guaranteed a spot for the 2027 ODI World Cup, as both will be nearing 40 by then. The BCCI is expected to have an “honest and professional” conversation with the two stalwarts regarding their long-term plans.
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Liked by Virat Kohli.
My morning is made ♥️ pic.twitter.com/k86Qi9Wd5N— Yashvi (@BreatheKohli) August 13, 2025
Between now and the end of 2026, India are scheduled to play 27 ODIs, with additional matches in early 2027. For Kohli to remain in contention for the next World Cup, regular appearances and consistent performances will be essential.
Kohli has already bid farewell to two formats — T20Is in 2024 after India’s World Cup triumph in the West Indies, and Tests ahead of the England series. His Test career ended with 9,230 runs in 123 matches at an average of 46.85, including 30 centuries. As India’s most successful Test captain, he notched up 40 wins in 68 matches, conquering England, Australia, and South Africa.
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Now, with his focus solely on ODIs, Virat Kohli is expected to return to action in the Australia series starting October 19. His comeback was initially planned for the Bangladesh tour in August, but political tensions forced a postponement — making October’s series his first step toward another potential World Cup journey.
