Virat Kohli’s Grey-Beard look in England fuels ODI retirement talk among fans

Virat Kohli, one of cricket’s modern greats, has already bid farewell to two formats in less than a year. On June 29, 2024, just after India’s thrilling 7-run win over South Africa in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup final, Kohli announced his retirement from T20Is. Then, on May 12, 2025, the batting maestro stunned fans by stepping away from Test cricket.

While assuring supporters that he would continue representing India in ODIs, Kohli now finds himself at the center of fresh speculation.

The Picture That Got Fans Talking

Currently residing in England with wife Anushka Sharma and their two children, Vamika and Akaay, Kohli has kept a relatively low profile. But a recent viral picture has reignited conversations about his cricketing future. In the photo, Kohli is seen with a noticeably grey beard, a stark contrast to his usual sharp, youthful look. 

This change in appearance immediately set social media abuzz, with fans wondering if it was a sign that he might be preparing to hang up his ODI boots as well.

Interestingly, at an event in England last month, Kohli had humorously revealed that his decision to retire from Tests partly stemmed from the effort of “colouring my beard every four days.”

What’s Next for Team India and Kohli

The Indian men’s cricket team has no international fixtures in August 2025. Their next assignment will be the Asia Cup in the UAE from September 9 to 28. In October, India will host West Indies for two Tests before flying to Australia for a three-match ODI series starting October 19 in Perth, followed by Adelaide (Oct 23) and Sydney (Oct 25).

Whether Kohli will feature in those matches remains the question on every fan’s mind — and his latest image has only deepened the intrigue.