Virat Kohli Says He Will Now Only Play ODI Cricket for India

Virat Kohli, one of India’s greatest cricketers, said very clearly that he will not return to Test cricket or T20 international cricket. He made this announcement after scoring a brilliant century that helped India win by 17 runs against South Africa. Kohli said he now wants to focus only on One Day International (ODI) cricket. This decision surprised many fans, but Kohli explained that he feels the ODI format suits him best at this stage of his career.

During the match, Kohli played an outstanding innings. He scored 135 runs from just 120 balls. What made his performance even more impressive was his fitness and smart running between the wickets. Even at the age of 37, he managed to collect 49 runs just by running, including 40 singles. He also hit seven sixes and eleven boundaries. This century was his 52nd ODI hundred, which is the highest by any player in cricket history. His performance showed that he still has the skill, strength, and focus to play top-level ODI cricket.

Kohli said he has already retired from T20 internationals after India won the T20 World Cup last year. He also retired from Test cricket earlier this year. According to him, playing all formats is very difficult as the body grows older. Instead of pushing himself too much, he wants to give his best in one format, and that is ODI cricket. He said that he has played more than 300 ODI matches and understands this format very well. Because of this experience, he said he feels confident and comfortable playing ODIs.

Kohli said he does not believe in too much practice, but he believes strongly in mental strength. He said most of his cricket is played mentally. As long as he feels mentally sharp and confident, he can perform well. He added that he works hard physically every day, even though he does not prepare for long hours before each match. Before this match, he even took a full day off to save his energy. He said his body and mind were ready, and that is why he performed so well.

Even though Kohli last played a competitive match in October, he showed no signs of difficulty or struggle. When he came to bat against South Africa, he looked comfortable from the beginning. He played confidently and enjoyed the match. Together with Rohit Sharma, he built a strong 136-run partnership, which helped India get a good score. Kohli said he only wanted to focus on the ball and enjoy the game, just like he did when he first started playing cricket. This simple approach helped him stay relaxed and give his best.

Kohli said that he still feels young in his mind, and that is why he continues to enjoy playing cricket. He said he can still bat for two hours in the nets without any break, which shows his fitness and passion. He also said that he always tries to give 120 percent whenever he plays. According to him, as long as he feels motivated and mentally ready, he will continue playing ODI cricket happily.

Many fans were surprised when Kohli officially confirmed that he will no longer play Test or T20I cricket. Tests are a prestigious format, and T20Is are very popular, especially after India’s World Cup win. But fans also understood that Kohli has played international cricket for more than 15 years and has given everything to the game. Many supporters said they are happy he will continue in ODIs because this is the format where he has created many records and memorable innings.

Kohli is now expected to focus mainly on major ODI tournaments and important series. With his experience, calmness, and skill, he will continue to be a key player for India in this format. Many experts believe he can still play for several more years as long as he stays fit. Kohli also plays T20 cricket in the Indian Premier League, so fans will still see him in action during the IPL seasons.

Kohli’s retirement from Tests and T20Is marks the end of an important chapter in Indian cricket. He was one of the best players in both formats. However, his decision also gives younger players a chance to grow in those formats. Meanwhile, India will still benefit from his experience and leadership in the ODI format. His presence in the dressing room and on the field will continue to inspire young cricketers.

Kohli said he only wants to play with full focus and full energy. He said he enjoys cricket too much to play it half-heartedly. He ended his statement by saying that he will continue to give his best to the Indian team whenever he plays ODI matches. His positive attitude and strong determination show that he is still one of the most passionate players in the world.