Virat Kohli to Quit IPL? RCB Star Hints at Shock Exit After Brand Snub

New reports indicate that, unlike MS Dhoni who kept playing in the IPL after retiring from international cricket, Virat Kohli is unlikely to continue playing in the IPL full time after announcing his Test and T20I retirements. As acknowledged by BCCI chief selector Ajit Agarkar, Kohli has yet to confirm whether he will be playing for India in the 2027 ODI World Cup.

Now that it seems uncertain whether Kohli will continue playing internationally or not, new news has emerged that raised some eyebrows in the cricketing community because it will make it seem like the RCB star might decide to leave the league early.

Virat Kohli Says No to Brand Deal Tied to RCB

Virat Kohli is still a big name in Indian cricket, both playing and with endorsements. His time with Royal Challengers Bengaluru has been more than just cricket. For over 10 years, he’s been the face of the team, boosting its brand and making it attractive to sponsors.

But, a new report from Rohit Juglan at RevSportz says Kohli isn’t renewing a big brand deal linked to RCB. Sources say Kohli told RCB to find someone else to represent the brand. This has people wondering if he might leave the IPL soon.

This news is surprising, especially since Kohli has been key to RCB since 2008. His influence and strong bond with Bengaluru fans are unmatched.

Kohli Recommended Rajat Patidar as RCB’s New Captain

After Faf du Plessis was sent to the IPL 2025 mega auction pool, RCB is said to have contacted Kohli asking him to take over the leadership again. Unexpectedly, Kohli refused the proposal and instead suggested that the team appoint Rajat Patidar as their leader.

It turned out to be a brilliant decision Patidar’s guidance took RCB to the top of the IPL for the first time in 18 years. A few days ago, news reports understood that by selecting a ready replacement for the future and giving the reins Lokhandwala, Kohli meant to stage a gradual departure from the IPL.

In his 18 remarkable years in the IPL, Virat Kohli has always been the face of RCB’s batting order. He has scored 8661 runs in 267 outings, which is still the highest runs ever scored by a player for the team. His 143 matches as captain is the most of any player in team history.

Even though he was never able to win the IPL as captain, Kohli’s intensity, passionate demeanor, and emotional spirit fueled RCB’s competitive edge and fan following. His attachment to the fans and pursuit of excellence has paved the way for an entire generation of cricketers.

As his rumored retirement begins to circulate among players and fans, the looming question hangs above is this the true RCB and IPL farewell for Virat Kohli, or will the King somehow rise for one last opening? The King of Indian cricket deserves an honorable farewell.