Virat Kohli often hailed as the “King of Cricket,” has etched his name in the annals of cricketing history through unparalleled consistency, leadership, and passion. From his early days in Delhi to becoming a global cricketing icon, Kohli’s journey is a testament to dedication and excellence
Early Life and Rise to Prominence of Virat Kholi
Born on November 5, 1988, in Delhi, India, Virat Kohli exhibited a profound interest in cricket from a young age. His father recognized this passion and enrolled him in the West Delhi Cricket Academy in 1998. Kohli’s dedication was evident early on, and he quickly rose through the ranks of age-group cricket. His leadership skills shone brightly when he captained the Indian U-19 team to victory in the 2008 ICC U-19 Cricket World Cup
International Debut and Ascendancy
Kohli made his ODI debut for India in August 2008 against Sri Lanka. His initial performances were promising, but it was his century against Sri Lanka in 2009 that marked his arrival on the big stage. Over the years, Kohli’s aggressive batting style, combined with impeccable technique, made him a mainstay in the Indian batting lineup across all formats.
Captaincy and Leadership
In 2013, Kohli was appointed the vice-captain of the Indian team and took over the Test captaincy in 2014. Under his leadership, India achieved significant milestones, including a historic Test series win in Australia during the 2018–19 tour. Kohli’s tenure as captain saw India dominate in Test cricket, maintaining the No.1 ranking for several years. He emphasized fitness and aggression, setting new standards for the team.
Batting Records and Achievements
Kohli’s batting records are a testament to his prowess:
- Fastest to 8,000, 9,000, 10,000, 11,000, 12,000, and 13,000 ODI runs, surpassing legends like Sachin Tendulkar.
- Most centuries in ODI chases, earning him the title “Chase Master.
- The first player to score 50 ODI centuries, breaking Tendulkar’s long-standing record.
- Highest run-scorer in a single World Cup edition, amassing 765 runs in the 2023 tournament.
- Only player to be named Player of the Tournament in both T20 and ODI World Cups.
His adaptability across formats and conditions underscores his status as one of the game’s greats.
Fielding Excellence
Beyond batting, Kohli’s fielding has been exemplary. In February 2025, he surpassed Mohammad Azharuddin’s record for the most outfield catches by an Indian in ODIs, reaching 158 catches. This achievement places him third globally, highlighting his commitment to excellence in all facets of the game.
Challenges and Resilience
Like all athletes, Kohli faced periods of form slumps. Between 2019 and 2022, he experienced a century drought, leading to scrutiny and criticism. However, his resilience shone through as he returned to form, scoring his 51st ODI century in February 2025. His ability to bounce back underscores his mental fortitude and dedication
Retirement from T20 Internationals
Following India’s victory in the 2024 T20 World Cup, Kohli announced his retirement from T20 Internationals. Virat Kohli ended his T20I career on a high note by scoring a pivotal 76 runs in the final against South Africa, which earned him the Player of the Match award.
Off the Field: Personal Life and Philanthropy
Kohli’s influence extends beyond the cricket field. In 2013, he established the Virat Kohli Foundation, aiming to support underprivileged children and promote sports. The foundation has organized charity events and collaborated with various NGOs to further its mission
In his personal life, Kohli married Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma in 2017. The couple is known for their philanthropic endeavors and active engagement in social causes.
Legacy and Impact
Virat Kohli’s impact on cricket is profound. His aggressive yet disciplined approach redefined Indian cricket’s ethos. He inspired a generation to prioritize fitness, mental strength, and consistency. As he continues to play, his legacy as one of cricket’s all-time greats is firmly cemented.
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Hassaan
Great Keep It Up