Virat Kohli’s retirement stirs global reactions
New Delhi, September 13: Virat Kohli’s retirement from Test and T20I cricket continues to spark debate, with a surprising voice joining the discussion. Taliban leader Anas Haqqani, in a recent podcast appearance, appealed to the Indian batting legend to reconsider his decision. He even urged Kohli to play international cricket until the age of 50.
Kohli announced his retirement from Test cricket before India’s England tour earlier this year, having already stepped away from T20Is after winning the ICC T20 World Cup 2024. Currently, the 35-year-old plays only in the ODI format for India. While fans have expressed disappointment over his exit from longer formats, Haqqani’s remarks have drawn global attention.
Haqqani’s request and criticism of media pressure
Speaking on journalist Shubhankar Mishra’s podcast, Haqqani praised Kohli’s unique stature in world cricket. He said Rohit Sharma’s retirement from Tests was understandable but questioned Kohli’s choice to step away so soon.
“Rohit’s retirement from Tests was justified. I don’t know the cause behind Kohli’s retirement. Very few people across the world are that unique. I would like him to play till 50,” Haqqani said.
He speculated that Indian media pressure might have influenced Kohli’s decision. “Maybe he was irritated by the media in India. He still had time. You can see Joe Root chasing Sachin Tendulkar’s tally of Test runs,” he added.
Haqqani’s comments underline the global reach of Indian cricket and the admiration for Kohli beyond traditional fan bases. However, the unusual source of this appeal has also sparked controversy, with many questioning the significance of such remarks.
When will Kohli play next?
Despite retirement from two formats, Kohli remains a key figure in India’s ODI setup. His next international appearance will come during India’s white-ball tour of Australia in October 2025. The tour includes three ODIs, with the first match scheduled for October 19 at Perth’s Optus Stadium.
Kohli and Rohit Sharma are both set to make comebacks in this series, strengthening India’s batting lineup ahead of next year’s ICC Champions Trophy. Reports also suggest that both players might feature in three List A matches for India A against Australia A in Kanpur before the Australia tour. These games, expected in late September and early October, could serve as match practice for the senior stars.
Kohli’s legacy and fan expectations
Kohli remains one of the most celebrated cricketers of his generation, with over 80 international centuries and a reputation for redefining modern batting standards. His decision to retire from Tests, where he scored 8,848 runs at an average above 49, surprised many who believed he still had years to offer.
Fans continue to debate whether Kohli’s focus on ODIs is strategic, possibly aimed at preserving his fitness and prolonging his career. Others argue that the absence of Kohli and Rohit from Tests marks the end of an era for Indian cricket.
The Taliban leader’s remarks may be unconventional, but they highlight the unmatched fan following Kohli enjoys. From cricket stadiums in India to distant regions with no direct sporting ties, his influence transcends borders.