Kohli Won't Retire After World Cup: Monty Panesar
Former England spinner Monty Panesar believes Virat Kohli's hunger and intensity suggest he won't retire after the upcoming ODI World Cup.
Former England spin legend Monty Panesar has expressed his belief that Virat Kohli is far from hanging up his boots, despite the Indian batting maestro's indications regarding his future in One Day Internationals. Speaking on the legendary batter's recent milestones and mindset, Panesar suggested that the hunger displayed by the star indicates a much longer career ahead.
A Hunger That Defies Age
The conversation comes on the heels of Kohli achieving the monumental feat of scoring 15,000 runs in ODI cricket. While the 37-year-old has previously suggested that the upcoming ODI World Cup could be his final outing in the format, Panesar views this not as a definitive end, but as a psychological driver for excellence.
Panesar highlighted Kohli's unparalleled commitment to the game, noting that his physical conditioning and mental approach remain at a world-class level. "Virat Kohli is still very hungry. He plays with tremendous intensity, pays great attention to his fitness and motivates everyone around him," Panesar told ANI.
The former spinner even admitted that watching Kohli's dedication serves as an inspiration for his own lifestyle. "I also get motivated to go to the gym when I see Virat training," he added.
The Mindset of a Champion
According to Panesar, the notion of the World Cup being Kohli's last might be a tactical mindset rather than a final decision. He explained that treating every match as if it were the last allows a player to maintain a level of focus that is rare in long-format careers.
- Intensity: Kohli approaches every ball with maximum effort.
- Perspective: Treating the remaining games as precious events.
- Longevity: Panesar believes the batter still has "a lot of cricket left in him."
"When you think you have only 10-15 games left, you approach every game with full intensity, treating each one like an event. Virat comes in with that mindset... I don't think he will retire after the World Cup," Panesar remarked.
Support for Rohit Sharma's Inclusion
While discussing the Indian squad's prospects, Panesar also turned his attention to former captain Rohit Sharma. The former England player voiced strong support for Sharma to secure a spot in the upcoming ODI World Cup squad, emphasizing the specific skillset the batter brings to the table.
Panesar described Sharma as a destructive force who can change the course of a game through pure aggression and clarity of thought. "He is an attacking batter, hits the ball a long way and plays with a clear mindset. He can make a real difference for India, and I believe the team needs a player of Rohit's quality," Panesar stated, urging selectors to give the veteran the opportunity to feature in the mega event.