Virat Kohli’s hunger for runs refuses to cease. The prolific batter finished the IPL 2024 season as the leading run-getter and played a key role in RCB qualifying for the playoffs.
After RCB’s loss to Rajasthan Royals in the Eliminator clash, former England skipper Michael Vaughan spoke about Kohli’s future, suggesting that the star cricketer might consider an earlier retirement than expected.
Indian cricketers usually retire at the age of 39-40. While the 35-year-old Kohli hasn’t hinted about stepping away from the game, Vaughan believes Kohli's evolving family dynamics could influence his career decisions.
Earlier this year, Kohli pulled off out of the five-Test series against England at home, citing personal reasons. Later, it was learnt that he missed the series to attend the birth of his son, Akaay.
"A brilliant season. 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," Vaughan said while speaking on Cricbuzz.
"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," he added.
Virat Kohli’s performance in the IPL 2024 was nothing short of remarkable as he amassed 741 runs in 15 innings at an average of 61.75 and a strike rate of 154.69, including one hundred and five half-centuries.
Lauding Kohli’s batting exploits, Vaughan said: "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."
Vaughan is also a fan of Kohli's charismatic presence on the field as he suggested that the game needs a character like the former Indian captain.
"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," he remarked.
