In a surprising twist that left cricket fans buzzing, the Sydney Sixers, a three-time Big Bash League (BBL) champion, announced on April 1, 2025, that they had signed Indian cricket superstar Virat Kohli for the next two seasons. The tweet from the franchise read, "King Kohli! Virat Kohli is officially a Sixer for the next TWO seasons!" However, just hours later, the Sixers clarified that this announcement was an elaborate April Fool's Day prank.
The news initially sent shockwaves through social media, igniting excitement among fans who imagined the prospect of Kohli teaming up with fellow cricketing great Steve Smith in the BBL. This potential pairing would have marked a historic moment in franchise cricket, as Kohli is currently not allowed to play in foreign leagues like the BBL unless he retires from international cricket and the Indian Premier League (IPL). According to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) regulations, players must hang up their boots at the international level before they can participate in overseas leagues.
Despite the prank, the excitement surrounding Kohli's performance in the IPL 2025 season has been genuine. As of now, he has scored a total of 90 runs in two matches, showcasing his skills with a remarkable unbeaten 59 against the defending champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). In the subsequent game against Chennai Super Kings (CSK), Kohli's performance was a bit lackluster, where he managed only 31 runs off 30 balls. Nevertheless, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) secured a 50-run victory over CSK, marking their first win at the Chepauk Stadium in 17 years.
Kohli's prowess in T20 cricket, especially in Australia, is noteworthy. He has an impressive T20 International (T20I) record on Australian soil, amassing 747 runs in just 16 innings at an astounding average of 74.70, including nine half-centuries. His unbeaten 82 against Pakistan during the ICC T20 World Cup 2022 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) is regarded as one of the finest performances in T20I history.
As the IPL season continues, Kohli has expressed that he might not play another Test series in Australia, having reflected on his past performances during his previous tours. "I might not have another Australia tour in me, so I am at peace with whatever happened in the past," he stated before the IPL 2025 commenced.
Looking ahead, Kohli is set to return to Australia later this year when India embarks on a three-match ODI series scheduled from October 19 to October 25. His ODI record in Australia is equally impressive, with 1,327 runs in 29 innings at an average of 51.03, which includes five centuries and six fifties.
The April Fool's prank by the Sydney Sixers, while lighthearted, underscores the fervor and excitement surrounding Kohli's cricketing journey. Fans remain hopeful for future opportunities to see him play in various formats and leagues, even if the recent announcement was just a playful jest.
As it stands, Kohli and RCB are gearing up for their next match against Gujarat Titans (GT) on April 2, 2025. With their current momentum and Kohli's form, fans are eagerly anticipating what the star batter will bring to the field.
