Just days before his much-anticipated return to international cricket in the first ODI against Australia in Perth, India’s star batsman Virat Kohli shared a cryptic message about failure.
This marks Virat’s first appearance in the Indian jersey since leading the team to victory in the Champions Trophy on March 9. Initially slated to participate in the Test series against England for the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy, he instead concluded his 14-year-long Test career with a heartfelt farewell.
Speculation is rife about Virat’s performance on Australia’s fast pitches and whether this three-match tour will be his last. Although he has expressed his desire to play in the 2027 World Cup, recent rumors suggest otherwise.
Amidst ongoing predictions about his career, the 36-year-old shared a thought-provoking quote on failure, hinting at his future goals just days before his ODI comeback, a format where he has excelled.
“The only time you truly fail is when you decide to give up,” Virat tweeted on Thursday.
The only time you truly fail is when you decide to give up.
— Virat Kohli (@imVkohli) October 16, 2025
During the team announcement, chief selector Ajit Agarkar addressed the retirement rumors about Virat and Rohit after the Australia series, confirming their selection with the 2027 World Cup in mind.
“As far as I know, both have passed the fitness tests. The selectors are aware of this, and there are no other updates,” Agarkar told reporters.
“They are currently playing this format, and we have chosen them with the 2027 World Cup in mind. There’s no need to discuss it further today,” he added.
Earlier this week, following India’s 2-0 series win against the West Indies, head coach Gautam Gambhir commented on the future of Rohit and Virat. He stressed the importance of focusing on the present and expressed confidence in their ability to perform well in Australia’s demanding conditions.
“The 50-over World Cup is still two and a half years away, so it’s crucial to stay in the present. They are quality players returning, and their experience will be vital in Australia. Hopefully, both will have a successful tour,” Gambhir said at the post-match conference.
