Virat Kohli Tries to Keep AB de Villiers in IPL, Says He Failed
**Virat Kohli** tried to convince AB de Villiers to stay on with Royal Challengers Bengaluru, but the South African star stuck to his decision to quit franchise cricket in 2021, the former RCB batter disclosed on a recent TOI Sports podcast.
During the Bombay Sports Exchange episode, AB de Villiers confirmed that Kohli approached him with a request to postpone his retirement. "Yes, he tried," de Villiers replied when asked if Kohli had intervened. The conversation took place while reflecting on de Villiers' decision to end his IPL career after the 2021 season.
De Villiers explained that his retirement was a gradual choice. After hanging up his Test boots in 2018, he kept playing T20 leagues worldwide, including the IPL, the Big Bash, and England’s Blast. By 2021, he felt the time was right and told Kohli, "I'm done," ending his franchise stint on his own terms.
The former South African recalled the pressure of performing at Bengaluru’s M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, where chants of his name filled the stands. He admitted sleepless nights before big matches and the weight of expectations that sometimes felt suffocating. Yet he also praised the electric atmosphere that helped him find his rhythm.
Kohli’s attempt to retain de Villiers underscores his leadership role within the RCB camp. Even after stepping down as captain, Kohli remains a central figure, often lobbying for experienced players to bolster the side’s chances. The episode also highlights the respect Kohli commands among his peers, willing to personally intervene in a teammate’s career decision.
Post‑retirement, de Villiers said the thrill of victory fades quickly, and champions soon wonder, "Now what?" He expressed gratitude for his career memories but hinted at a quieter life with his family, away from the relentless IPL spotlight.
With de Villiers gone, RCB must lean on emerging talent and the strategic input of senior players like Kohli. The franchise’s next season will test whether Kohli can fill the void left by the former South African star, both on the field and in the locker room.
The revelation adds a personal layer to the ongoing narrative of IPL power dynamics, showing that behind the scores and statistics lie genuine relationships and tough decisions.