During a crowded sporting calendar that strains even dedicated enthusiasts, the one-day international series between England and India starting next Tuesday may feel like one commitment too many.

Yet despite the format facing headwinds and its World Cup still far off, this contest warrants closer inspection. Virat Kohli returns in Indian colours, offering what could be a final chance to witness an all-time great at the crease in this country.

While music acts extend careers through nostalgia, athletes encounter shorter timelines, evident already this season with the exits of Kane Williamson and Ben Stokes.

At 37, Kohli stays active in internationals and ranks among the world's most followed athletes. He has trimmed his calendar, stepping away from T20 internationals in 2024 and Tests the year before.

His attention now centres on the IPL, where Royal Challengers Bengaluru have claimed two recent titles, and on ODIs where his 54 centuries mark him as the standout performer.

Kohli and wife Anushka Sharma have shifted their family to London, finding greater privacy than the intense spotlight back home, even if complete seclusion remains elusive.

Recently Jordan Cox met Kohli, his IPL captain, in a London cafe ahead of his England debut and received reassurance about pre-match calm after Kohli recalled his own nervous start years earlier.

Though they believed their chat went mostly unnoticed, images soon appeared online.

Cox notes the constant pursuit leaves Kohli uneasy, as he simply seeks ordinary moments without intrusion.

Off the field Kohli displays a generous nature that contrasts his intense on-field approach.

Cox highlights how Kohli invests time helping teammates and others, a trait uncommon among top achievers.

Based in London, Kohli trains regularly at Lord's where MCC supports his preparation and India assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate often assists.

His limited matches have not slowed results, with strong IPL contributions and recent ODI centuries underlining his focus.

RCB director Mo Bobat praises Kohli's response to schedule gaps, noting improved consistency, selflessness and off-field professionalism that inspires those around him.

One MCC contact mentions hopes Kohli might appear for London Spirit, given shared staff connections, though practical barriers remain.

India players face restrictions on overseas leagues and Kohli has voiced doubts about shorter formats while holding a major IPL contract.

With the 2027 World Cup likely his last major outing alongside Rohit Sharma, the upcoming series carries weight as it begins at Edgbaston, shifts to Cardiff and concludes at Lord's.