Rayudu Advocates for Kohli's Test Cricket Comeback After Stellar IPL Performance
Synopsis
Ambati Rayudu has urged for Virat Kohli's return to Test cricket following his stellar unbeaten 69-run performance in IPL 2026. Kohli's record-breaking innings secured a win for RCB against SRH, illustrating his ongoing prowess in cricket.
Key Takeaways
Ambati Rayudu praises Virat Kohli 's performance.
Kohli scored an unbeaten 69 runs in IPL 2026.
He became the first player to surpass 4000 runs in IPL chases.
Rayudu advocates for Kohli's return to Test cricket.
Kohli is focusing solely on ODIs after retiring from T20Is and Tests.
New Delhi, March 29 (NationPress) Former Indian cricketer Ambati Rayudu has praised Virat Kohli's remarkable consistency and has advocated for a return to Test cricket for the 37-year-old. Kohli's impressive, unbeaten 69-run performance played a crucial role in leading the defending champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), to a convincing 6-wicket victory over Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) during their opening match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on Saturday.
In this innings, Virat struck five fours and five sixes, marking his 64th IPL fifty and making history as the first player to surpass 4000 runs in successful chases within the IPL. This contribution enabled RCB to achieve their target of 202 runs with 26 balls remaining.
Rayudu expressed admiration for the way Virat is performing in ODIs and maintaining his form in the premier T20 league, stating that it is quite impressive. He believes that Kohli still possesses five to six years of international cricket left in his career.
"I feel his best is yet to come in the IPL. What we have seen is just a glimpse. Fitness has never been a concern for him. I don’t believe he will face any issues with his physical fitness, whether it’s getting late on the ball or slowing down on the field. The only factor that might affect him is his mental state. I don’t think he’s nearing the end of his career. I see at least five to six more years of quality cricket in him," Rayudu remarked in a video shared by ESPNcricinfo on X.
Additionally, he stated, "I think he should make a comeback in Test cricket, ideally as a captain. He has been the best red-ball captain I have witnessed in Indian cricket. Given his current batting form, it would be detrimental to Indian cricket if he does not return."
Virat Kohli, regarded as one of India’s finest Test players, announced his retirement from red-ball cricket last year following a disappointing Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT). He concluded his Test career with an impressive tally of 9230 runs from 123 matches, including 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries.
Previously, Virat stepped away from the T20I format after India’s victory in the T20 World Cup 2024, and he currently exclusively represents the country in ODIs.
Point of View
Former cricketer Ambati Rayudu emphasizes Virat Kohli's potential return to Test cricket, highlighting his stellar performance in IPL 2026. As Kohli continues to break records, the discussion around his future in international formats becomes increasingly relevant, showcasing the importance of maintaining top talent in the sport.
NationPress
30 Jun 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Ambati Rayudu say about Virat Kohli's performance?
Rayudu praised Kohli's consistency and suggested he should return to Test cricket, noting that Kohli's performance in IPL 2026 is just a glimpse of what he can achieve.
What records did Kohli set during the IPL match?
Kohli became the first player in IPL history to surpass 4000 runs in successful chases while securing his 64th IPL fifty.
How many runs did Kohli score in the match against SRH?
Kohli scored an unbeaten 69 runs, playing a pivotal role in RCB's victory.
What is Kohli's current status in international cricket?
Kohli currently plays only ODIs for India after retiring from T20Is and Test cricket.
How many years does Rayudu believe Kohli can still play?
Rayudu believes Kohli has at least five to six more years of quality cricket left.
