Virat Kohli: Reflects On His Calmer Persona, Relishes Cricket Going To LA Olympics

India-West News Desk

NEW DELHI – Virat Kohli is thrilled about cricket going to the Olympics, calling its inclusion in the 2028 Los Angeles Games a landmark moment for the sport. The former India captain, who retired from T20 internationals after leading India to World Cup glory last year, welcomed the decision and even joked about making a surprise appearance if India were in contention for gold.

“It’s great. When I heard the news, I was really happy about it,” Kohli said at the RCB Innovation Lab Indian Sports Summit. “The amount of T20 cricket played worldwide, especially through leagues like the Indian Premier League, has played a massive role in getting cricket into the Olympics. It’s a great opportunity for our athletes to compete at that level. To be Olympic champions would be an absolutely magnificent feeling.”

Amid the excitement, Kohli remains grounded about his own future in the game. Despite stepping away from T20 internationals, he continues to represent India in Tests and One-Day Internationals while playing in the IPL for Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Addressing his longevity in the sport, he emphasized that his motivation goes beyond records and accolades.

“Me playing the game is not for achievements; it comes down to pure joy, enjoyment, and love for the sport,” he said. “As long as that love is intact, I will continue to play.”

Kohli also reflected on how perceptions of his on-field persona have changed over time. While he has become a more composed figure in recent years, his competitive fire remains undiminished.

“People had a problem with my aggression before, and now they have a problem with my calmness. I honestly don’t know what to do,” he said. “You can be aggressive in your mind without showing it outwardly all the time. My celebrations are just my way of showing passion for the game and my team.”

“I do have a tendency to go overboard at times, and I’ve never shied away from that,” he admitted. “But the starting point is always care—I want my team to win. Sometimes, my emotions get the better of me, and I don’t feel great about that afterward.”

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