In a recent candid interview on Fox Cricket ahead of his return to international cricket, Virat Kohli opened up about the profound physical and mental toll of his career, the value of his recent time off, and his rejuvenated mindset ahead of facing Australia. Having retired from Tests and T20 Internationals, he will now focus primarily on the one-day format and spoke with impressive honesty about where he stands today.
Kohli began by reflecting on his workload over the past 15-20 years, saying he has “probably played the most number of games in the last 15 years in international cricket, combining the IPL together as well.” He added that he’d “actually not rested at all, if that makes sense,” underscoring the relentlessness of his schedule. ABP Live+2LatestLY+2 This admission gives insight into his decision to step away from two formats: not just ageing or form, but a genuine desire to manage his body and mind after years of non-stop cricket.
He described the break of four to five months (during which he spent time in the UK with his family) as “a very refreshing time off.” He emphasised that spending quality time with his kids and wife had allowed him to “just catch up on life” — something he felt he hadn’t been able to do “for the last… I don’t know how many years.” India TV News+1He went so far as to say he felt “as fit, if not fitter than I’ve been before,” and highlighted that the freshness was evident when he moved in nets and in fielding sessions. ABP Live
Kohli also shared that part of his motivation for taking the break and retiring from certain formats was to preserve his longevity in the game and to ensure his hunger and love for batting remained intact. He acknowledged that having played as many games as he has meant there had been few truly restful periods. His words suggest that while records and milestones have defined large parts of his career, the next phase is about balance: staying sharp and passionate for the game while also being present off the field.
As the series against Australia looms, Kohli’s tone was one of quiet confidence rather than aggressive assertion. He recognised that his role has slightly changed, that the game around him has evolved, and that he needs to adapt accordingly. Yet, he made it clear he remains committed to contributing at the highest level — but doing so with a refreshed spirit rather than simply churning out numbers.
In summary, Kohli’s interview gives fans and cricket watchers a layered portrait of a player who has dominated his craft, but is now consciously stepping into a new chapter. The intensity and drive remain, but now paired with reflection, rest, and recalibration. After years of rarely stopping, this break is not a pause in his career — rather, it appears to be a strategic reset. And judging by his words, Virat Kohli returns not just refreshed, but with his eyes clearly on the journey ahead.