‘He isn’t going anywhere’ Aakash Chopra clarifies Virat Kohli RCB exit rumours ahead of IPL 2026 Auction

Virat has been part of RCB since the inaugural season in 2008.

Virat Kohli will continue to feature for RCB despite rumours of an exit ahead of IPL 2026. Kohli won his maiden IPL title last season, ending an 18-year wait. However, it is believed that the 36-year-old rejected a commerical contract with the franchise before the new season.

He will definitely play for RCB: Aakash Chopra on Virat Kohli

Amis the reports, Aakash Chopra has assured RCB fans that their star player will not leave the franchise. Virat has spent his entire career with RCB and has grown to be synonymous with the franchise. The former India captain has often cited a desire to finish his career with the Bengaluru based team.

“He has reportedly refused a commercial contract, but what does that mean? He will definitely play for RCB. If he is playing, he is definitely going to turn out for the same franchise,” Chopra said.

Commercial contracts are separate to retention contracts with the franchises. Kohli has been retained every season by RCB and is likely to be the first on their list ahead of IPL 2026 Auction.

“He (Kohli) has just won the trophy. Why will he leave the franchise then? He isn’t going anywhere. What contract can be refused is in the realm of speculation. He might have a dual contract,” he added.

Kohli is the all-time leading run getter in IPL history. He has featured in 267 games, scoring 8,661 runs with 71 50+ scores. Last year, Virat smashed 657 runs in 15 games at a brilliant average of 54.75.