Dear Virat.. We love you but its time!!

Skill Gets You to the Stadium, Mental Resilience Wins You the Medal

In the world of sports, talent is the ticket to the arena, but mental resilience is what secures the victory. It’s an unspoken truth: raw skill can make you a contender, but it’s the unwavering mental fortitude that sets champions apart. The sporting realm is filled with tales of those who dazzled briefly with their brilliance but fell away when their mental edge dulled. And right now, Virat Kohli’s trajectory is a stark reminder of this reality.

For years, Kohli has been the embodiment of cricketing excellence. His unparalleled dedication, unmatched technique, and unyielding spirit have built his legend. But even the mightiest warriors face battles that skill alone cannot win. The recent string of below-par performances from Kohli raises the question: has he lost his edge? Is the fierce competitor who once turned every challenge into a victory starting to falter in the mental game?

The decline isn’t in technique—Kohli still has the sharp cover drive, the immaculate footwork, and the instinctive cricketing brain. But something feels different. The fire, the hunger, the unbreakable self-belief that made him the player opponents feared—it seems to have dimmed. The psychological wear and tear of being under the spotlight, the relentless expectations, and years of carrying a team on his shoulders appear to be taking their toll. ?

It’s easy to overlook how grueling the mental side of sports can be. While a player’s body ages visibly, the mind’s wear and tear often goes unnoticed until performance slips. Kohli’s grit and sheer willpower brought India unforgettable victories, but the very same arena that once echoed with his triumphant roars now seems to weigh heavy on him. ?

To stay past one’s prime is a risk every great athlete faces, and the consequences can tarnish even the most storied careers. Kohli needs to confront an uncomfortable truth: the time to hang up his boots might be approaching. Better to leave as a celebrated hero than to watch the glories fade away game by game.

Mental resilience isn’t just about pushing through tough times; it’s about recognizing when to step back with dignity. Kohli has always been an inspiration, a warrior who embodied passion and excellence. And now, it might be time for him to set the ultimate example: knowing when to bow out with grace and leave the crowd cheering one last time.

In sports, as in life, it’s not just about how you play the game; it’s about knowing when to say, “It’s time.”

India didn’t lose this test series, Kohli did. And he needs to go. Period. BTW, he will still remain the best batsman of the 21st century.