Here’s why Middlesex wants Virat Kohli to play in County Cricket or One-Day Cup

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Indian batting superstar Virat Kohli has announced his retirement from Test cricket. While this decision marks the end of an era, what stood out is the notable absence of any statement ruling out domestic red-ball cricket. Kohli, who stepped away from Test cricket on May 12, 2025, will not be part of the Indian squad for the upcoming five-match Test series against England.

Middlesex have openly expressed their interest in signing a player of Kohli’s stature. Speaking to the Guardian, the club’s director of cricket has expressed his desire to have a conversation with the Indian great, recognizing his immense global appeal and cricketing prowess. Lord’s, Middlesex’s home ground and a venue deeply cherished by Kohli, has historically served as a significant draw for attracting international stars, as seen with previous signings like AB de Villiers and the upcoming arrival of Kane Williamson for the latter half of the 2025 season. Kohli’s legendary stature in the sport makes him a dream acquisition for any franchise. With Kohli no longer tied to India’s red-ball commitments, a short-term county deal could offer both him and Middlesex immense mutual benefit.

“Virat Kohli is the most iconic player of his generation, so of course we are interested in having that conversation,” Alan Coleman, Middlesex’s Director of Cricket, said.

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For Kohli, a move to county cricket, particularly with Middlesex at Lord’s, could hold significant personal and professional appeal. It offers a chance to finally undertake the county stint that was curtailed by injury in 2018 when he was slated to play for Surrey ahead of a Test series against England. While he dominated that subsequent series despite the missed preparation, there remains a sense of unfinished business in English domestic conditions. Under the current Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regulations, while active Indian players are generally restricted from participating in overseas T20 leagues, they are permitted to play in English county cricket’s first-class (County Championship) and List A (Metro Bank One-Day Cup) competitions after retiring from international cricket in that format. Having retired from Tests, Kohli would be eligible for such a move.

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