Former England captain Michael Vaughan believes India’s standout batsman Virat Kohli has the potential to play for several years, with retirement an option if he wants privacy with his family. Kohli is coming off a fantastic IPL 2024 performance, scoring 741 runs at an average of 61.75 in 15 games.
The legendary batsman is all geared up as a vital participant in Indias squad for the impending T20 World Cup in the West Indies and U.S.A. However, at 35 years old and the responsibility of two young children talks surrounding Kohli’s retirement have begun circulating among enthusiasts and pundits.
In a discussion with Cricbuzz subsequent to Royal Challengers Bengalurus ouster from the IPL by the Rajasthan Royals in the Eliminator Michael Vaughan expressed:
“During his time away from the India vs England Test series, I believe he went to London and led a normal life. I’ve read a few of his comments and quotes and he just absolutely adored that normal life. I think that may take Virat away from cricket, like he just wants to go and have a quiet time for a while.”
Michael Vaughan
He added:
“A brilliant season (IPL 2024). You talk about retirement with Virat Kohli, I look at this in a way that he can play for long. He is that fit. Unless his mind goes and he’s obviously got a young family now. In two-three years’ time, everything changes, and he just wants to spend quiet time; I completely get that.”
Michael Vaughan
During the 2023 World Cup Kohli outshone all by clinching his 50th ODI century eclipsing Sachin Tendulkar’s prior 49 achieving a milestone akin to conquering a towering mountain peak with remarkable ease.
In a dazzling 16year career the exceptional 35yearold athlete has amassed a stunning total of over 27000 international runs showcasing an astounding 80 centuries.
“He is a class act” – Michael Vaughan on Virat Kohli’s evolution in T20s
Michael Vaughan also lauded Virat Kohli for his capacity to adapt throughout the present IPL season despite his impressive results.
Despite criticism, the champion hitter posted his greatest strike rate of 154.70 in a single IPL season.
“He is a class act. His game is obviously up there with the greats of the game, but the way that he has gone up a gear to stay afloat in this modern era of T20 cricket is exactly what you need. He’s got the game, the mindset, the work ethic that he would have had to put in the nets to work on that sweep shot.”
Michael Vaughan
He concluded:
“I love his energy. He causes a bit of chaos in the game; he gives it to the camera and keeps fingers on his mouth to shut them up now and again, but sports need such characters. Those who can keep you going, keep you on the edge of your seat, cause a little controversy.”
Michael Vaughan
Virat Kohli will be in action next when Team India faces Ireland in the T20 World Cup opener in New York on June 5.
