Kohli quashes retirement speculation, found honing skills in London, prepares for ODI return
In a significant development for cricket fans worldwide, Virat Kohli has begun training in London as part of his preparation for a comeback to One-Day International (ODI) cricket ahead of the upcoming three-match ODI series against Australia, scheduled from October 19 to 25, 2025.
Kohli, who concluded his Test cricket career as India's fourth-highest run-scorer and as the nation's most successful Test captain, achieving 40 victories in 68 Tests, has been training with Gujarat Titans' assistant coach Naeem Amin, focusing on his batting skills indoors.
The Indian cricket sensation's ODI return was initially planned for an August series against Bangladesh, but that series was postponed, delaying his international comeback. His last competitive cricket appearance was in June 2025 during the IPL final, where he scored 43 runs to help Royal Challengers Bangalore win their maiden IPL trophy.
Currently residing in London, Kohli appears to be in good spirits and physical shape during his training sessions. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has acknowledged his preparation for ODI cricket, though it remains unclear if he will participate in any domestic List A games like the Vijay Hazare Trophy before the Australia series.
A recent Instagram post by Kohli, which has gone viral online, shows him with Naeem Amin, the assistant coach of the IPL franchise Gujarat Titans. The caption reads, "Thanks for helping out with the hit brother. Always lovely to see you."
The photo of Kohli, despite sparking retirement speculation, indicates that he is currently active in ODI cricket. However, the article does not specify whether Kohli is preparing for the ODI cricket season or participating in any other cricket series or matches aside from the India-Australia ODI series.
Virat Kohli aims to play in the ODI World Cup scheduled for at least 2027. The three-match ODI series between India and Australia is scheduled for October 19, 23, and 25.
[1] ESPN Cricinfo [2] Cricket Country [3] Cricbuzz [4] The Indian Express
- With his sights set on the ODI World Cup scheduled for at least 2027, Virat Kohli's career in cricket continues as he trains in London for his comeback to ODI cricket, hoping to regain his form before the India-Australia ODI series in October 2025.
- Amidst speculation of retirement, Virat Kohli's latest Instagram post, showcasing his training with Naeem Amin, assistant coach of the IPL franchise Gujarat Titans, leaves fans anticipating his return to the international cricket arena, with the upcoming India-Australia ODI series being a significant stage for the Indian cricket sensation.
- Beyond his achievements in Test cricket, Virat Kohli's love for cricket extends to Bollywood, as well, with stories circulating about a potential role for him in a sports-centric film focusing on India's football, cricket, or even Bollywood, highlighting the versatility of India's most successful Test captain.
