Virat Kohli Retire From IPL? Clarifying The Speculations After RCB’s Historic 2025 Win

Virat Kohli Retire From IPL? Aakash Chopra Explains Reports About Refused Commercial Contract And Confirms RCB Future

Virat Kohli’s name is once again at the center of speculation after reports suggested he might not renew his contract with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) ahead of IPL 2026. The news, widely circulated on October 12, originated from RevSportz journalist Rohit Juglan, who claimed that Kohli had refused a commercial contract with the franchise. Fans were quick to speculate whether this meant the Indian batting maestro would retire from IPL or move to another team.

Former cricketer and cricket analyst Aakash Chopra addressed these reports on his YouTube channel, providing much-needed clarity. Chopra emphasized that Kohli’s reported refusal concerns a commercial contract, which is separate from the playing contract, and does not indicate his departure from RCB or the IPL.

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“He has reportedly refused a commercial contract, but what does that mean? He will definitely play for RCB. If he is playing, he is definitely going to turn out for the same franchise,” Chopra explained. This statement reassured fans that the speculation about Virat Kohli retiring from IPL is unfounded.

Chopra further highlighted the context of Kohli’s decision. “He has just won the trophy. Why will he leave the franchise then? He isn’t going anywhere. What contract can be refused is in the realm of speculation. He might have a dual contract,” Chopra added. The dual contract reference indicates that Kohli’s playing contract and commercial agreements with RCB are handled separately, allowing him flexibility in signing side deals without affecting his participation in matches.

It is important to understand the structure of IPL contracts. After each mega auction, a player signs a one-year contract with a franchise, but the team can retain them for subsequent seasons through negotiations. The commercial contract often covers endorsements, promotions, and other non-playing commitments. Kohli’s reported refusal of this contract should not be interpreted as a decision to quit the league.

Virat Kohli played a pivotal role in RCB’s historic triumph in IPL 2025, leading the team to its first-ever title in the T20 league. He amassed 657 runs in 15 games at an outstanding average of 54.75 and a strike rate of 144.71, scoring eight fifties with a top score of 73*. This stellar performance further strengthens the argument that Kohli has no reason to leave the franchise or the IPL.

Kohli remains the IPL’s all-time leading run-scorer. In 267 matches, all for RCB, he has scored 8,661 runs at an average of 39.54 with a strike rate of 132.85, including eight hundreds and 63 fifties. His consistent performance and loyalty to the franchise underscore his commitment to RCB and the Indian Premier League.

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With RCB reportedly up for sale and commercial contracts often involving sponsorships and endorsements, Kohli’s decision to refuse a commercial contract could be a strategic choice, ensuring he focuses on playing while navigating business deals independently. This decision should not be viewed as a signal that Virat Kohli will retire from IPL.

In conclusion, fans can rest assured that the speculation surrounding Virat Kohli’s future in the IPL is largely exaggerated. His commitment to RCB remains intact, and the reported refusal of a commercial contract is a separate matter from his playing career. After leading RCB to their first IPL title and maintaining an illustrious record, Kohli is expected to continue thrilling fans in IPL 2026 and beyond.

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