Harsha Bhogle reveals his off-camera conversation with Virat Kohli before asking about a possible Test cricket comeback. (Image Credit: X/ @SelflessCricket)
Broadcaster Harsha Bhogle disclosed that off-camera, before the post-match presentation of India's first ODI against South Africa, he had asked Virat Kohli whether he would be okay with being asked if he would go back on his decision to retire from Test cricket. Kohli had quit the Test format earlier in 2025. In fact, he was asked live whether he intends to stick to only one format. That question, Bhogle explained, was not out of the blue: it was after an off-camera conversation to which consent was given.
That transparency almost seems like a show of mild journalistic politeness and perhaps even a hint to respect Kohli's position, considering how sensitive things got with talks of a "Test U-turn."
Yes, Kohli responded with a firm, clear answer that, for now, he intends to play only ODIs. He said that at 37, managing fitness and recovery is a priority, and that white-ball cricket only is what he is committed to. He is happy playing ODI cricket, so long as he is hitting the ball well, feeling physically and mentally ready, and enjoying his game, but at least for now, he will not go back to Test cricket.
It would appear so. In yesterday's 1st ODI against South Africa at Ranchi, India posted 349/8 thanks largely to Kohli's brilliant 135 off 120 balls, his 52nd ODI century and a solid 57 from senior partner Rohit Sharma. The duo stitched an important partnership after an early loss, setting a powerful foundation for the innings. Eventually, India defended the total and won the match by 17 runs.
The knock by Kohli, punctuated with boundaries and sixes, reminded all as to why he remains one of the most dangerous ODI batters going into his late 30s. He too reiterated his commitment to recovery post-match in comments, acknowledging the physical toll at this age.
Public acknowledgement through the revelation by Bhogle that a question about a Test comeback was pre-cleared shows sensitivity to Kohli's status and fan sentiments. In refusing the possibility of a U-turn, though, Kohli has drawn a line under speculation least for now.
For Indian cricket, this clarity may help management and selectors plan the immediate white-ball future without entertaining expectations of a red-ball return from one of their biggest batsmen.
For the fans: while some may still hope for a sentimental return to Test cricket someday, Ribaut Kohli's performance and words after the Ranchi game suggest he is content focusing on ODIs.
