End Of An Era? Virat Kohli's Latest Decision Sparks IPL Exit Rumors

Lately, there have been a bunch of reports saying that Virat Kohli hasn’t renewed his commercial contract with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) ahead of IPL 2026. This news has got fans buzzing and wondering if Kohli is planning to quit the IPL or switch teams. But former cricketer Aakash Chopra has stepped in to clear the air.

Chopra explained on his YouTube channel that this refusal is about a commercial contract, not the playing contract. He reassured fans that Kohli will definitely continue playing for RCB. “He has reportedly refused a commercial contract, but what does that mean? He will definitely play for RCB. If he is playing, he is definitely going to turn out for the same franchise,” Aakash Chopra said.

What Does Refusing a Commercial Contract Mean?

Aakash Chopra went on to say, “He (Kohli) has just won the trophy. Why will he leave the franchise then? He isn’t going anywhere. What contract can be refused is in the realm of speculation. He might have a dual contract.”

He clarified that the commercial contract is a side deal separate from the playing contract. It’s common for players to have these extra agreements related to endorsements or appearances. There are also reports that RCB might be going up for sale, which could be part of the bigger picture.

How IPL Contracts Work

After the IPL mega auction, players sign contracts for just one year. But teams can keep them longer through negotiations. Virat Kohli has been a crucial part of RCB for years and played a huge role in their historic IPL 2025 win. That season, he scored 657 runs in 15 games, boasting an impressive average of 54.75 and a strike rate of 144.71. He smashed eight fifties with a top score of 73 not out.

Kohli’s IPL Journey So Far

Virat Kohli is the IPL’s all-time leading run-scorer. In 267 matches – all for RCB – he has racked up 8,661 runs with an average of 39.54 and a strike rate of 132.85. He’s scored eight centuries and 63 fifties, making him one of the greatest to ever play in the league.

Where Is Virat Kohli in His Career?

At 36, Virat Kohli has already retired from Test cricket and stepped away from T20 internationals after India’s T20 World Cup win in 2024. Many believe the IPL might be his final chapter in professional cricket.

Virat Kohli has spoken openly about managing his workload and spending more time with his family. This has fueled rumors that he might soon call time on his IPL career as well.

What Has Kohli Said About His IPL Future?

Despite all the speculation, Virat Kohli himself hasn’t announced any plans to retire from the IPL. Right after RCB’s IPL 2025 win, he told the media, “I will play for RCB till my last day in the IPL.” That statement clearly shows he’s not ready to hang up his boots just yet.

What’s Happening Inside RCB?

So far, RCB hasn’t made any official announcements about Virat Kohli’s future. However, it’s said the team respects his decision to cut back on off-field activities. They’re also looking at future leadership options, which is normal when a team has senior players who are nearing the twilight of their careers.

Still, Virat Kohli remains a key player for RCB. His fantastic form in IPL 2025 played a major role in the team finally lifting their first-ever IPL trophy.

Is Kohli Retiring from the IPL?

Right now, there’s no official word that Virat Kohli is retiring from the IPL. The rumors mostly come from insiders and media speculation, not from Kohli himself.

It’s possible he’s starting to prepare for life after cricket by reducing his commercial commitments and mentoring younger players. But until there’s a clear announcement from him or RCB, Kohli is very much an active player and a vital part of the RCB squad.

The End of an Era?

Virat Kohli has been the face of RCB for almost twenty years. When he finally does retire, it will mark the end of an unforgettable era in IPL history. For now, though, fans can relax knowing that Kohli hasn’t retired yet. He still has a few seasons left to light up the IPL with his passion and brilliance.