Speculation over Virat Kohli’s future with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) has taken social media by storm after reports claimed he declined to sign a new commercial contract with the franchise. Having already retired from Tests and T20Is and with his ODI future uncertain, every move by Kohli has been under intense scrutiny. The latest rumours suggested a possible exit from RCB, a team he has been associated with since the inception of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2008. However, closer examination reveals that these speculations lack substance, as Kohli’s bond with RCB remains strong.
Mohammad Kaif Clarifies Kohli’s Commitment To RCB
Amid growing chatter about Kohli’s alleged departure, former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif stepped in to clear the air. He firmly dismissed retirement talks, explaining that Kohli’s decision not to sign the commercial deal does not impact his player contract with RCB. “Is Virat Kohli retiring from the IPL? No, guys (or people), Virat Kohli had promised that he would play his first and last match for Bengaluru only. He has promised this, and since he has done it, he will not back out. But people are saying he hasn’t signed a commercial deal. There are two deals: the player’s contract and the commercial contract,” Kaif stated in a video on Instagram.
Kaif further revealed that Kohli’s hesitation stems from possible franchise ownership changes. “The reason he has not signed a commercial contract is that a new owner might come for RCB, and they will control the franchise. That’s why he is waiting; if there’s a change, then there will be negotiation and all. These are all behind-the-scenes stuff, and we don’t have a lot of information about these things. He is waiting for all that,” he added.
Kohli’s Unwavering Legacy At RCB
Virat Kohli’s association with RCB has been one of loyalty and consistency since 2008. Over the years, despite not captaining the side anymore, his influence and contribution have remained central to the team’s performance. Kohli’s long-awaited moment of glory finally arrived in 2025 when RCB lifted their maiden IPL title. Kaif emphasised that this phase marks a new beginning for the star batter.
“Virat Kohli has started playing only now. RCB has begun winning trophies now. Kohli scored 650+ runs and helped them win the trophy. He made runs in the Champions Trophy 2025, he was the Player of the Match in the T20 World Cup 2024 final, and was the Player of the Tournament in the 2023 World Cup. He has only started playing now. Now you have to wait for more. He is going nowhere. He will play only for RCB. He has promised it to the fans, and he will not break it.”
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