Virat Kohli's Test Retirement Boosts RCB Performance, Claims Ashwin
Virat Kohli's Test Retirement Benefited RCB? Ex-Teammate Makes Big Claim
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Former Indian cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin suggests that Virat Kohli's retirement from Test cricket has significantly enhanced his performance in T20 formats, benefiting his IPL team, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). Kohli's strike rate has notably improved since his retirement, contributing to RCB's strong start in the IPL 2026 season.
- 01Virat Kohli announced his retirement from Test cricket on May 12, 2025.
- 02Kohli's strike rate in T20s has increased from the low 120s to over 150 since mid-2024.
- 03Ashwin attributes Kohli's improved technique to the absence of Test cricket.
- 04Irfan Pathan supports Ashwin's claim, emphasizing the importance of momentum in batting.
- 05RCB is currently leading the IPL 2026 points table with consecutive victories.
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Former India cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin believes that Virat Kohli's retirement from Test cricket on May 12, 2025, has positively impacted his performance in T20 formats, particularly in the Indian Premier League (IPL) with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). Kohli's strike rate has surged from the low 120s to over 150 since mid-2024, showcasing a significant improvement in his batting technique. Ashwin noted that Kohli's batting has become more dynamic, allowing for greater shot-making freedom without the constraints of Test cricket. Former all-rounder Irfan Pathan echoed Ashwin's sentiments, highlighting that Kohli's new batting style generates more momentum, essential for executing big shots. As a result, RCB is currently at the top of the IPL 2026 points table, having secured back-to-back wins.
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Kohli's enhanced performance in T20s could lead to greater success for RCB, positively affecting fans and stakeholders.
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