If I have to prove my worth and value, that place is not for me: Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli says he no longer plays to prove himself and wants honesty from the Indian team management. The veteran batter also revealed how returning to domestic cricket helped him rediscover the joy of playing.

Post Published By: Ayushi Bisht

Updated : 15 May 2026, 10:02 PM IST

Kohli has made it clear that his future in international cricket will depend on trust (Img: Internet)

New Delhi: Virat Kohli has made it clear that his future in international cricket will depend on trust, clarity and the value he brings to the Indian team environment rather than external expectations or pressure to justify his place.

Speaking during a conversation on Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s podcast with Mayanti Langar, the former India captain shared his thoughts on motivation, preparation and his long-term future in ODI cricket ahead of the 2027 World Cup cycle.

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Having already retired from T20 internationals and Test cricket, Kohli currently remains active only in the ODI format for India. At 37, speculation around his future continues, but the veteran batter said his approach towards the game is now driven purely by honesty and commitment.

‘I Don’t Need To Prove My Value’

Kohli said he would continue playing as long as the team management believes he can contribute meaningfully. However, he stressed that he does not want to be in an environment where he constantly has to justify his worth.

The Delhi-born cricketer explained that he still prepares with complete intensity and is willing to give everything physically for the team. He said he trains to compete at full intensity for all 50 overs of an ODI match and remains fully committed whenever he steps onto the field.

Kohli added that if there comes a stage where he is expected to repeatedly prove his value despite his preparation and effort, he would consider that environment unsuitable for him.

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Domestic Cricket Helped Kohli Rediscover Joy

The veteran batter also reflected on his recent return to domestic cricket through the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Kohli admitted he initially wondered whether returning to domestic competition after so many years would still feel motivating.

However, he said the experience changed completely once he shifted his mindset from performance pressure to simply enjoying the game again. Kohli revealed that fielding, diving around and spending time on the ground made him feel like “a child again”.

He added that his focus now remains on enjoying cricket honestly and keeping the game uncomplicated.