Is Virat Kohli Happier and Better After Leaving Test Cricket?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Virat Kohli is experiencing personal happiness post-Test retirement.
- Fans honored Kohli with a special tribute during the match.
- Dinesh Karthik emphasizes the importance of mental well-being in sports.
- RCB is aiming for a top-two finish in IPL 2025.
- The mid-season break has revitalized the team.
Lucknow, May 23 (NationPress) Dinesh Karthik, the batting coach and mentor for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, has disclosed that although the announcement of Virat Kohli's resignation from Test cricket took many by surprise, the renowned Indian batsman is currently at his happiest and best following that decision.
This match against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Friday marks Kohli's first appearance since his choice. Initially, RCB was set to compete against Kolkata Knight Riders at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, but due to rain, that match was canceled, leading to the rescheduling against SRH in Lucknow.
Fans showed up in large numbers, donning white T-shirts as a special homage to their beloved cricketer, celebrating Kohli’s retirement from Test cricket.
“The announcement caught the public off guard, so we are just monitoring how Virat is doing. He is currently in his happiest phase, truly relishing the game, and he desires to spend quality time with his family. It’s a personal choice that we respect, and like everyone else, we are witnessing this change, but it’s wonderful to see him content and eager to play whenever needed. The priority is to keep him in good spirits,” Karthik shared in a pre-match discussion with the broadcasters.
The upcoming match against Hyderabad is crucial for RCB, presenting an opportunity to surpass Gujarat Titans and claim the top position in the IPL 2025 standings. Karthik reflected on the possibility of reaching the top and how the mid-season break, influenced by India-Pakistan tensions, has allowed RCB to rejuvenate.
“Our aim halfway through this tournament is to secure a spot in the top two. These next two matches are vital for us, and we will strive to climb into the top two if possible. This break has been a refreshing change; the players are energized and ready to perform. In a tournament of this nature, the intensity can become exhausting, especially toward the end, so we are grateful for this time off,” he remarked.
“Rajat has had his time to recuperate, which is a significant advantage for us. On the downside, we lost Dev (Padikkal) due to fitness issues, and while we miss him, we have Mayank, who has proven himself in the tournament over the years, so we are excited to see him play,” Karthik concluded.