Virat Kohli lists out his retirement plans
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Legendary Indian cricketer Virat Kohli has finally broken the silence on his playing in only one format and has claimed that he feels fresher than ever after the long break. Kohli smiled when Adam Gilchrist questioned his stay till the 2027 World Cup.
Australia hosts India, the Champions Trophy champions, for a three-match ODI series. Not only does the series mark the return of Indian greats Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, but it also marks the return of Mitchell Starc for Australia, who did not play the South Africa ODIs after announcing his T20I retirement.
Skipper Pat Cummins misses out on the white-ball series as he eyes an Ashes return after recovery from his back injury. Mitchell Marsh takes over as the Australian captain, while it marks the debut for Indian youngster Shubman Gill as the new captain of the Indian side.
Virat Kohli reflects on his 15-year-long journey in International cricket
Virat Kohli appeared in the Fox Sports interview alongside Adam Gilchrist and Ravi Shastri, who questioned him over his captive form in Australia throughout his career, his phase-out from the game for the last six months, and how he feels to be back in Australia.
"It's been a long time for me since I took a off, so ever since I retired from Test cricket, I have been catching up with life. I got to spend some quality time with my kids and my family," said Kohli about his phase off from the game.
"The amount of cricket I've played over the last 15-20 years. I've actually not rested at all. If that makes sense. I've probably played the most number of games in the last 15 years in International cricket, combining IPL as well. For me, it was a very refreshing time off," said Kohli in an exclusive interview with Fox Sports.
"I'm feeling as fit, if not fitter, than I've been before." Virat Kohli, when Adam Gilchrist mentions him playing the 2027 World Cup
There has been immense speculation surrounding the chances of Virat Kohli staying with the Indian side till the next World Cup, which will be played almost 2 years later in 2027. The limited cricket over the months due to the veterans' retirement from the two other formats has been highlighted as a major concern for his foreseen retirement.
However, for Kohli, the motto has been very clear: be fit and thrive through these two years to make it to the World Cup without much noise and cheer. He has not even updated the BCCI on his decision yet. However, ever since his arrival in Australia, Kohli has spoken relatively with greater confidence and willingness to stay.
"I'm feeling as fit, if not fitter, than I've been before. I'm feeling fresh and Fit, moving well in nets and fielding sessions. And I'm ready to go," confirmed Kohli.
Virat Kohli’s first interview after Test retirement on Fox Cricket.
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Virat's return to International ends in a slashing disappointment
Kohli thrives under Aussie conditions, as he has a record of 1327 runs playing in 29 matches in Australia. With an average of over 50, Kohli has also amassed 5 ODI centuries against the Aussies on their land. Considering his overall record, Kohli has scored 2451 runs in 48 ODI games at an average of 54.46.
However, this time around, his return to cricket has ended in a disappointing dismissal. Virat Kohli was edged off to point off Mitchell Starc's bowling as the great batsman fell for his first duck on Australian soil upon his return to international cricket. Kohli would be hopeful for a stronger return in the next game at Adelaide.
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India National Cricket Team Australia National Cricket Team Virat Kohli Adam Gilchrist Ravi Shastri India vs Australia Australia vs India Gautam Gambhir
