Mumbai: Former India captain Virat Kohli arrived in the country on Tuesday ahead of the three-match ODI series against South Africa, beginning on November 30. He was seen at Mumbai airport, where hundreds of fans gathered to welcome him and click photographs as he made his way out of the terminal.
Kohli, who retired from Test cricket and T20Is earlier this year, has shifted his focus to the 50-over format, aiming for an extended run in ODIs. His return has created a buzz among supporters, with expectations high after his unbeaten 74 in his last ODI outing against Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground. That knock, fashioned during a difficult chase, reinforced his reputation as one of the game’s premier finishers.
Kohli’s decision to prioritise ODIs draws mixed reactions
Since stepping away from the longer formats, Kohli has maintained that ODIs remain his primary focus, particularly with his ambition to feature in another World Cup cycle. His retirement from Tests in May 2025 shocked the cricketing world, sparking debates about timing and intent.
Many former cricketers felt that Kohli, known for his intense competitiveness and leadership, could have continued to contribute significantly to India’s Test success. His departure left a visible void, especially in overseas conditions where his aggressive attitude often lifted team morale.
Goswami believes Test cricket needed Kohli more
Former Bengal cricketer and ex-RCB teammate Shreevats Goswami weighed in on the ongoing debate, suggesting that Kohli should have prioritised Test cricket instead of ODIs. Goswami said that India’s current struggles in red-ball cricket—highlighted by conceding 749 runs in two innings against South Africa—reflect the absence of Kohli’s trademark energy and belief.
Responding on X (formerly Twitter), Goswami wrote, “Ideally Virat should have left playing ODIs and continued playing Test cricket until he had nothing to give. Test cricket misses him.”
He added that Kohli’s passion, intensity and commitment were a driving force for the Indian team, instilling the conviction that they could win in any condition.
Focus shifts to upcoming South Africa series
With India preparing for a crucial ODI assignment, the return of Kohli is expected to provide stability to the top order. Team selectors are also set to announce the ODI squad amidst questions about leadership in the absence of Shubman Gill.
Kohli’s presence not only adds experience but also carries the hopes of fans eager to see him dominate again in the format he continues to prioritise. As India begins training for the series, all eyes will be on how the star batter shapes up after his brief time away.