As reports suggest, Virat Kohli was forced to change his mind and agree to participate in the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy after the BCCI was unhappy with his comments after his comeback century in Ranchi.
Indian legend Virat Kohli would never have thought that he would face the problem of retirement or be asked to play domestic cricket to retain his place in the ODI team. It is expected that Kohli will return to domestic cricket after a gap of 15 years.
All this happened while Kohli showed no signs of slowing down due to any reason like age or lack of fitness. He has registered back-to-back centuries against South Africa to send a strong message about his form as well as his fitness.
“I have played almost 300 ODIs…” Virat Kohli showcases international stats
Upon returning to India, Virat Kohli looked excited and determined to surprise the home crowd with some powerful hits. He scored his 52nd ODI century with impeccable accuracy and then declared that he does not believe in too much preparation.
Kohli said, “I have played around 300 ODIs and so much cricket in the last 15-16 years. If you can bat for one and a half hours, two hours in the nets without taking a break, then you are meeting all the standards. I understand that if there is a dip in form, you look for games and try to get that form back.”
He also emphasized that his focus remains on readiness. Virat Kohli has always been known for his mentality in the game and will be respected for his patience throughout the ages. This is what makes him a great player of the modern day game.
“As long as you’re hitting the ball well and playing good cricket, with the experience I have at this level, it’s about me being physically fit, mentally prepared and excited to play those games. Everything else should take care of itself,” he said.
Why did Virat Kohli change his mind on VHT partnership?
After the post-match conference, it never seemed as if Kohli would ever return to a Delhi shirt; However, just the day after the Ranchi match, DDCA officials confirmed Virat’s participation in the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy.
According to a report in The Indian Express, Virat Kohli’s comments did not go down well with the BCCI as they had earlier directed the ace to skip the domestic ODI competition.
Kohli’s return to the Indian domestic circuit comes at a time when the Indian selectors are planning to choose the long-term ODI future of the senior batsmen. Kohli, who is 37 now, will turn 39 by the time of the next World Cup in 2027.
Rohit Sharma interested in playing SMAT along with VHT approval
Unlike Virat, Rohit Sharma had immediately agreed to feature in the Vijay Hazare Trophy and had also informed the Mumbai Cricket Association about his availability. However, in a shocking development, an MCA official has claimed that Rohit also aspires to play the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy knockouts for Mumbai.
The Times of India reported Rohit’s eagerness to play in the SMAT Knockout, raising questions over his possible return to T20Is. However, this could be Rohit’s way of managing more gametime for himself to keep his World Cup hopes alive.
Also read: Will Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma retire from international cricket? Former Indian coach gave a big statement!
