IPL 2025: "He retired early.." Suresh Raina feels Virat Kohli could've played T20Is till 2026 T20 World Cup

Virat Kohli retired from T20I cricket after winning ICC T20 World Cup in 2024.

During the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 match played between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Rajasthan Royals (RR), former Indian cricket team batsman Suresh Raina shared his views on Virat Kohli‘s decision to retire from Twenty20 Internationals.

According to Raina, although Kohli may have chosen to retire early from the format, he might have still taken part in the forthcoming World Cup.

After leading Team India to victory in the 2024 T20 World Cup, the RCB batsman announced his retirement from T20I cricket. Kohli capped off his T20I career in style with a match-winning performance in the final against South Africa in Barbados, where he was honored as Player of the Match.

Virat Kohli’s absence to be felt by India in T20 World Cup 2026

Virat Kohli stated that it was time for the younger generation to step forward after announcing his retirement from T20I cricket, and this transition has already begun. Under the leadership of Suryakumar Yadav, a new wave of talent is shaping the future of India’s T20I team.

One of the biggest challenges has been filling Kohli’s No. 3 position. While Suryakumar briefly assumed the role, Tilak Varma has emerged as a strong contender owing to his consistent performances.

As India gears up to host the upcoming T20 World Cup, the team is embracing a fresh, modern approach. Despite the absence of seasoned players like Ravindra Jadeja, Rohit Sharma, and Virat Kohli, the squad remains focused on defending their title.

Virat Kohli could’ve played until 2026: Suresh Raina

During Star Sports Hindi commentary, Suresh Raina expressed his belief that Virat Kohli may have stepped away from T20I cricket earlier than necessary. He remarked that Kohli, who is still performing at the peak of his abilities, could have continued playing until at least the 2026 T20 World Cup.

“I still think that Virat Kohli retired early from T20I cricket. He could have played until 2026, based on the rhythm with which he is playing right now and the rhythm during the 2025 Champions Trophy as well. The way he has maintained his fitness, he looks like he is at his peak still,” Raina said on Star Sports.

Here is the video:

In the ongoing IPL 2025 season, Kohli has been showcasing his brilliance for RCB. Following his Orange Cap victory in 2024, he continues to shine as one of the tournament’s top players. With 392 runs in nine matches at an exceptional average of 65.33, the right-handed batter currently stands second on the list of leading run scorers.

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