“I Will Never Play As Impact Player in IPL” – Virat Kohli to RCB
Virat Kohli rules out ever playing as an IPL Impact Player, says he will only play full matches as long as fitness allows.
Virat Kohli has made it clear that he does not want to be part of the Indian Premier League as an Impact Player. According to his Royal Challengers Bengaluru teammate Swastik Chikara, Kohli wants to play the full game and will not settle for a half role.
Speaking to RevSportz, Chikara recalled his conversation with the former India captain. “Virat bhaiya said he would play like a lion. He ruled out the possibility of competing as an Impact Player,” Chikara said. He also shared that Kohli had told him, “I will field for 20 overs and then bat. I will leave cricket if I have to play as an Impact Player.”
Kohli’s Stand Against Impact Player Rule
The Impact Player rule was first introduced in IPL 2024. It allows a team to bring in a substitute from the bench at any stage of the match. While many players have adapted, Kohli has been vocal about his dislike for it. He feels the rule breaks the natural balance of the sport.
Even at 36, Kohli continues to show his hunger for the game. In IPL 2025, he scored 657 runs in 15 matches and played a major role in helping RCB lift their first-ever IPL trophy. He scored 43 runs off 35 balls in the final against Punjab Kings at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.
Kohli’s Journey Ahead
Kohli has already retired from T20 internationals and Test cricket, but he still represents India in ODIs. For the IPL, his message is simple: as long as his fitness allows, he will continue to play the way he always has, giving his all in batting and fielding.
