Virat Kohli defies BCCI summons, continues intense training in London ahead of Australia ODI tour

Indian cricket icon Virat Kohli is actively preparing for a much-anticipated comeback after a significant break from international cricket. Since announcing his retirement from Test cricket in May earlier this year, Kohli has been residing in London with his wife Anushka Sharma and their children, Vamika and Akaay.

Speculation is growing that Kohli could return to competitive action during the upcoming unofficial ODI series between India A and Australia A, though no official confirmation has been made. Notably, Kohli has yet to report to the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Bengaluru for the mandatory fitness assessments. Reports suggest that he has already completed fitness tests in London and is now focused on regaining top form in preparation for a possible return later this year.

Amid rumors that the upcoming ODI series in Australia may serve as a farewell for both Kohli and Rohit Sharma, the former Indian captain has been putting in rigorous training sessions at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground. Several images of Kohli interacting with fans and working with net bowlers during his practice sessions have gone viral across social media platforms.

Another recent photo showing Kohli alongside a net bowler highlights the dedication he is putting into his comeback. He aims to play a key role in India’s three-match ODI series in Australia, set to begin on October 19. Kohli last represented India during their victorious ICC Champions Trophy campaign in the UAE in March 2025 and was expected to return for the now-cancelled Bangladesh tour, which was called off due to diplomatic tensions.

With his Test and T20I careers behind him, Kohli is focused entirely on the ODI format as he prepares to don the national jersey once again, keeping fans on edge with his unexpected retirement announcement earlier this year.