In the wake of India’s T20 World Cup 2024 triumph, former Indian cricketer Suresh Raina has expressed his views on Virat Kohli’s sudden retirement from T20 Internationals, saying the star batter could have easily continued playing till at least 2026.
Speaking in a recent interview, Raina praised Kohli’s immense contribution to Indian cricket but admitted that the decision to step away from the T20 format came as a surprise to many. “Virat is supremely fit and mentally strong. He could have easily continued till the next T20 World Cup in 2026. But it was his personal call, and we all respect that,” said Raina.
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Kohli, who played a crucial role in India’s victorious T20 World Cup 2024 campaign, bowed out of the format on a high. He scored a match-winning 76 in the final against South Africa, once again proving his class on the grandest stage. Announcing his retirement after the win, Kohli said he wanted to make space for the next generation and focus on ODI and Test formats.
Raina, a close friend and former teammate of Kohli, acknowledged the timing of the decision. “He left on his own terms, which not many players get to do. But if you ask me as a fan, yes, I would have loved to see him play till 2026, maybe even lead in a few games.”
Kohli’s T20I career spanned over 15 years, during which he amassed over 4,000 runs, becoming one of the most consistent performers in the format globally. His legacy in T20Is includes not just his batting prowess, but also his intensity, unmatched fitness, and the ability to inspire a generation.
Raina concluded by saying, “Virat has set a benchmark in T20 cricket. His presence on the field, the energy he brings—those are irreplaceable. But knowing him, he’s probably already thinking about how to win India more games in the other formats.”
As fans come to terms with the end of Kohli’s T20I journey, tributes continue to pour in from across the cricketing world. While many, like Raina, believe he could have played on, Kohli’s decision underlines the importance he places on timing, legacy, and paving the way for new talent.