Will Virat Kohli Retire from ODIs After World Cup 2023? AB De Villiers Point of View

As the ICC World Cup 2023 draws near, all eyes are on Virat Kohli and whether the 34-year-old will say Good Bye from ODIs after the mega event.

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Kohli’s hunger and motivation still intact, says De Villiers

According to Kohli’s former RCB teammate, AB de Villiers, the batting maestro remains incredibly fit both mentally and physically. De Villiers highlighted how Kohli has been intelligently rested at times to maintain his hunger and motivation. Furthermore, the emotions Kohli displays on the field are a clear indication of how much winning means to him across formats.

In De Villiers’ view, Kohli’s main drive is to be part of a successful team and win World Cups for India, not chasing individual records. As such, the upcoming World Cup on home soil will mean the world to Kohli, who will be determined to guide India to the title.

Could lifting the trophy prompt Virat Kohli’s ODI retirement?

If India does triumph in the World Cup, De Villiers opined that it might be a good time for Kohli to retire from ODI cricket. Kohli could then focus his energies on Tests and IPL for the remainder of his career, while also getting more family time.

Kohli’s ODI Legacy Already Secured

With many records and achievements already under his belt, Kohli has undoubtedly cemented his legacy as an ODI great. Surpassing Sachin Tendulkar’s 49 ODI hundreds record would only be icing on the cake. Even if Kohli does retire to ODIs post the World Cup, his unmatched impact on Indian cricket over the years will forever be cherished.

For now, all eyes are on Kohli to propel India’s quest for a third World Cup title on home soil. If the Men in Blue do emerge victorious, it may well prove the perfect farewell for one of ODI cricket’s all-time icons.