Rumours around Virat Kohli’s IPL future have once again set social media abuzz. Many fans started to believe that the former India captain might step away from the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) after reports surfaced about his decision not to renew a commercial deal linked with the franchise. However, those assumptions can finally be put to rest.
Virat Kohli is all set to continue with RCB in the IPL 2026 season. He has represented since the tournament’s inception in 2008. The confusion began when reports suggested that Kohli had rejected a sponsorship renewal connected to the Bengaluru-based side. This immediately triggered speculation about his future, with some even hinting at a possible retirement from the league.
However, experts have clarified that brand endorsements and commercial deals operate completely separately from a player’s playing contract. In other words, Virat Kohli’s personal decision regarding a sponsorship deal has no bearing on his cricketing commitments with RCB.
Mohammad Kaif clears the air on Virat Kohli’s IPL future
Former Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif took it upon himself to shut down the growing chatter surrounding Kohli’s IPL future. The former India batter used social media to directly address the issue, giving fans much-needed clarity and reassurance.
“Is Virat Kohli retiring from IPL? No guys, Virat Kohli had promised that he will play his first and last match for Bengaluru only,” Kaif stated. “He has promised this and since he has done it, he will not back out.”
Kaif further explained that Kohli’s decision to stay away from the commercial contract was purely situational and not a sign of any fallout with the franchise. “The reason he has not signed a commercial contract is because 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,” he explained.
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Kaif’s comments highlight the difference between off-field business arrangements and on-field commitments. He made it clear that Kohli’s brand image or sponsorship decisions should not be mistaken for any uncertainty about his place in the RCB setup.
Kohli has been the face of Royal Challengers Bengaluru since 2008. From being a promising young batter to becoming one of the game’s biggest icons, his journey with RCB has been filled with both highs and heartbreaks.
For over a decade, he carried the burden of expectations. He plied his trade as a leader and as a performer, even during seasons when the team fell short of silverware.
That long wait ended last season when RCB finally lifted their maiden IPL trophy. His contribution was nothing short of spectacular. He scored 657 runs in 15 matches at an impressive average of 54.75, wherein he played match-winning knocks throughout the campaign. His performances were instrumental in leading RCB to long-awaited glory.
Kaif praises Virat Kohli’s red-hot form
Mohammad Kaif dismissed any suggestion that Kohli might retire soon, pointing out that the 36-year-old batter is currently at the peak of his powers. “Kohli scored 650+ runs and made 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 he was the Player of the Tournament in the 2023 World Cup. He has only started playing now. He is going nowhere. He will play only for RCB,” Kaif added.
Kaif’s words reflect what most RCB fans already believe: Kohli is far from done. In fact, his hunger for runs and his passion for the game seem stronger than ever. The numbers back that up too. Kohli remains the all-time leading run-scorer in IPL history. He mustered 8,661 runs in 267 games at an average of 39.5, including 8 centuries and 63 fifties.
