Virat Kohli Biography: Inside the Life, Career, and Legacy of Indian Cricket’s Modern Icon
Virat Kohli, the name that has become synonymous with cricketing excellence, has redefined the game. From his explosive debut to his record-breaking centuries and the controversies surrounding his leadership, Virat’s journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. This article dives into his ultimate biography, career stats, controversies, personal life, and more—making it a truly interactive experience for fans around the world.
Virat Kohli Biography: A Journey of Passion and Perseverance

Virat Kohli is widely regarded as one of the greatest cricketers of the modern era. His story is not just about cricket—it’s about determination, discipline, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
Virat Kohli Birthday and Early Life
Virat Kohli grew up in a middle-class family in Delhi. He was the youngest of three children, with two older siblings, and his father, Prem Kohli, was a lawyer, while his mother, Saroj Kohli, is a homemaker. From a young age, Kohli showed a deep passion for cricket, which was encouraged by his family. His father, who was a keen cricket fan, played a big role in nurturing his interest in the game.
Virat started playing cricket at the age of 3, using a tennis ball in the lanes of his neighborhood, and soon joined the West Delhi Cricket Academy. He was known for his aggressive playing style, which caught the attention of his coaches.
Kohli’s early life wasn’t without struggles. He had to balance his schoolwork with cricket practice, and at times, his commitment to the sport meant missing out on other childhood experiences. Despite this, he remained focused on his goal of playing for the Indian national team.
His big break came when he was selected to play for the Delhi Under-15 team and soon after, for the India Under-19 team. Kohli’s rise was meteoric, and by 2008, he made his ODI debut for India, marking the beginning of a stellar international career.
Virat’s father, Prem Kohli, was a major influence in his early life, and after his father’s sudden passing in 2006, Virat’s determination to succeed in cricket grew even stronger, shaping him into the world-class player he is today.
Virat Kohli Age and Rise in Cricket
Virat Kohli’s Age:
As of today, Virat Kohli is 36 years old, having been born on November 5, 1988.
Rise in Cricket:
Virat Kohli’s rise in cricket has been nothing short of remarkable. His journey from a talented young cricketer to one of the world’s best batsmen is a testament to his dedication and hard work.
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Early Beginnings (2002-2006):
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Age 14: Kohli joined the West Delhi Cricket Academy and quickly made a name for himself with his aggressive and stylish batting.
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2006: Kohli’s career really took off when he captained the India Under-19 team to victory in the ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup, showcasing his leadership and batting skills.
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Breakthrough in International Cricket (2008-2010):
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2008: Kohli made his ODI debut for India against Sri Lanka at the age of 19. His first major breakthrough came during the 2010 Sri Lanka series, where he scored consistently, earning a permanent spot in the team.
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2009: He scored his first ODI century against Sri Lanka, establishing himself as one of the brightest young talents in world cricket.
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Establishing Dominance (2011-2014):
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2011: Kohli became the backbone of the Indian batting line-up, contributing heavily to India’s 2011 World Cup win. His consistency in all formats of the game helped him rise rapidly in the rankings.
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2013: He rose to the number one spot in the ICC ODI rankings, a position he would hold on multiple occasions throughout his career.
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Captaincy and Leadership (2017-2021):
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2017: Kohli became the captain of the Indian cricket team across all formats. Under his leadership, India became a dominant force in world cricket, especially in ODIs and Test matches.
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Record Breaker: Kohli’s rise to the top was marked by several records, including the fastest to 8,000, 9,000, 10,000, and 11,000 runs in ODIs, and a remarkable career average across all formats.
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Global Recognition and Consistency (2015-Present):
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Known for his unmatched consistency, Kohli has been a key player in numerous memorable cricketing moments, including his match-winning knocks in key series and tournaments.
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Despite taking breaks for personal reasons, his form and ability to adapt to all formats continue to solidify his status as one of cricket’s greatest batsmen.
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Virat Kohli’s rise in cricket is characterized by his relentless pursuit of excellence, sharp focus on fitness, and a burning desire to push his limits, both as a batsman and a leader.
Virat Kohli Profile and Early Career Information
Virat Kohli’s cricket journey began at a young age. He showed an immense passion for the game, and at the age of 9, he joined the West Delhi Cricket Academy. His talent was evident early on, and by the age of 15, he was already playing for Delhi’s Under-15 team.
In 2002, at just 14, he played for Delhi in the Vinoo Mankad Trophy, scoring a half-century. His early career really took off in 2006 when he led the India Under-19 team to victory in the ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup. Kohli’s performances caught the eye of selectors, and in 2008, he made his debut for the Indian national
team in an ODI against Sri Lanka.
Kohli’s initial breakthrough came in 2010 when he was selected for the 2010 ICC World Twenty20 squad, and he became a regular in the Indian team shortly after. His first century in ODIs came in 2009 against Sri Lanka, and since then, his career has been a series of remarkable achievements.
His aggressive batting, consistency, and adaptability across formats established him as one of the world’s premier batsmen, eventually making him the captain of the Indian cricket team in all formats in 2017. His early career laid the foundation for what would become an iconic cricketing legacy.
Virat Kohli Religion and Personal Beliefs
When it comes to faith, Virat Kohli’s religion is Hinduism. He has often spoken about spirituality and mental balance, crediting practices like meditation for keeping him focused on and off the field.
Kohli has spoken about how he finds peace and motivation through meditation and yoga, incorporating these practices into his daily routine. He has also mentioned in interviews that he believes in karma, and he strives to do good in life, trusting that it will come back to him in positive ways.
While he is rooted in his religion, Kohli’s approach is more personal and centered on growth, balance, and positivity. He respects all religions and has often expressed his support for unity and equality. His wife, Anushka Sharma, who is also known to follow her own spiritual practices, shares his mindset of living a balanced and mindful life.
Where Was Virat Kohli Born?
For those wondering, Virat Kohli was born in Delhi, India. Virat Kohli’s childhood name was “Chiku.” His father, Prem Kohli, gave him this affectionate nickname, which has stuck with him throughout his life. His cricketing journey began at the West Delhi Cricket Academy (WDCA), where coach Rajkumar Sharma polished his raw talent into a structured game. One of his early memorable moments was scoring 90 runs for the Delhi Under-15 team, helping his side chase down a challenging target. His father, Prem Kohli, played a huge role in his development, taking him to practices and offering guidance. Kohli also spent hours practicing in the streets, hitting balls against walls, showing his dedication from a young age. His father’s untimely death when Virat was 18 deeply impacted him, but his memories and teachings continue to inspire him.
Virat Kohli Wikipedia Presence
oday, Virat’s life and achievements are so significant that they have a detailed presence on Virat Kohli’s Wikipedia page, where fans, journalists, and historians often refer for authentic Virat Kohli information. His Wikipedia page not only chronicles his early life, including his rise from a young, aspiring cricketer in Delhi to becoming one of the greatest modern-day batsmen, but also provides a comprehensive overview of his cricketing milestones. It covers everything from his record-breaking centuries to his iconic performances in the ICC tournaments and IPL.
The page highlights his leadership journey, especially his transformation from a passionate and aggressive player to a successful captain who led India to the top of the world rankings in Test cricket. His role in India’s 2011 World Cup victory and his 2018 Border-Gavaskar Trophy win in Australia are pivotal moments documented on his page. In addition, his Wikipedia account details his personal life, including his marriage to Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma, and his influence as a global fitness icon.
Not only does his Wikipedia page serve as a treasure trove of statistics and records, but it also includes insights into his philanthropic efforts through the Virat Kohli Foundation, supporting underprivileged children and promoting sports in India. With its accuracy and up-to-date information, Virat Kohli’s Wikipedia account remains a trusted source for fans and scholars eager to understand the legacy of this cricketing legend.
Virat Kohli’s Age & Personal Life
At 36 years old, Virat has already achieved what many could only dream of. Off the field, he is equally famous for his fitness regimen, his dedication to his family, and his outspoken nature. Kohli’s marriage to Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma in 2017 was a media sensation. The couple welcomed their daughter Vamika in 2021, and they have been one of the most adored celebrity couples globally.
Poll: Which Virat Kohli moment off the field do you cherish the most?
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His wedding to Anushka Sharma
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His Instagram post with Vamika
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His commitment to fitness and philanthropy
Virat Kohli’s Net Worth: A Multi-Millionaire Icon
As of 2025, Virat Kohli’s net worth is estimated to be around $115 million to $120 million USD. His wealth primarily comes from his lucrative contracts with the Indian cricket team, his endorsements, business ventures, and investments. Here’s a breakdown of the main sources of his net worth:
1. Cricket Earnings:
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BCCI Contracts: As a top player for the Indian national cricket team, Kohli has a Grade A contract with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), which offers him a significant salary. His earnings from international cricket, including match fees, are substantial.
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IPL Earnings: Kohli has been one of the highest-paid players in the Indian Premier League (IPL), representing Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) since the tournament’s inception. In the past, his salary has been around ₹17 crore (approximately $2.3 million USD) per year, though this can vary depending on the contract terms.
2. Endorsements:
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Brand Endorsements: Virat is one of the most marketable athletes globally, with high-profile endorsement deals. He has partnered with numerous top brands, including Nike, Puma, Audi, Reebok, Vivo, and Manyavar, among others. His endorsement income contributes significantly to his overall net worth.
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Kohli’s endorsement deals are estimated to generate $20 million to $30 million USD annually.
3. Business Ventures:
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F&B Ventures: Virat has invested in several businesses, including the Piso chain of restaurants and the Stepathlon fitness program.
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Fashion Brand: In addition to his sports endorsements, Virat launched his own clothing line, Wrogn, in partnership with the brand Universal Sportsbiz. The brand has seen tremendous growth, contributing to his wealth.
4. Real Estate:
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Virat has invested in high-end properties, including luxury homes and a grand mansion in Mumbai. He also has properties in Delhi and Dubai, making him a major player in real estate investments.
5. Social Media Influence:
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With millions of followers on platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook, Kohli also earns a significant amount through social media promotions and brand collaborations.
Virat Kohli’s wealth reflects his success not just as a cricketer, but as a brand ambassador, businessman, and influencer. His focus on fitness, lifestyle, and philanthropy also adds to his popularity, securing him numerous financial opportunities both on and off the field.
Virat Kohli’s Awards and Recognitions
Virat Kohli has received numerous awards and recognitions throughout his illustrious cricket career, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest batsmen of all time. Here’s a comprehensive list of his major achievements:
1. ICC Awards:
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ICC Player of the Year (2017): Kohli won the prestigious ICC Cricketer of the Year award in 2017 for his exceptional performances in all formats.
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ICC ODI Player of the Year (2012, 2017): Kohli was named the ICC ODI Player of the Year twice, in 2012 and 2017, recognizing his dominance in the 50-over format.
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ICC Test Player of the Year (2018): Kohli was awarded ICC Test Player of the Year in 2018, for his consistency and remarkable performances in Test cricket.
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ICC Spirit of Cricket Award (2018): Kohli received the Spirit of Cricket Award in 2018 for promoting the spirit of sportsmanship and for his positive contributions to cricket.
2. Padma Awards (India’s Highest Civilian Honors):
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Padma Shri (2017): Kohli was honored with the Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian awards, for his contributions to sports, especially cricket.
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Padma Bhushan (2020): In recognition of his outstanding achievements in cricket, he was awarded the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian award.
3. Arjuna Award (2013):
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Arjuna Award for Excellence in Sports (2013): Kohli received the Arjuna Award, India’s highest sports honor, for his exceptional performance in international cricket, especially in limited-overs formats.
4. Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award (2016):
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Khel Ratna (2016): Kohli was honored with the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna, India’s highest sporting honor, for his consistent performance and leadership in Indian cricket.
5. ICC World Cup Achievements:
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2011 ICC Cricket World Cup: Kohli was an integral part of the Indian team that won the 2011 ICC World Cup. His 35-run knock in the final helped India achieve victory.
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2013 ICC Champions Trophy: Kohli was part of the team that won the ICC Champions Trophy in 2013, which India won under the leadership of MS Dhoni.
6. Other Cricketing Awards:
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Most Valuable Player (2016 IPL): Kohli was awarded the Most Valuable Player award in the 2016 IPL season, where he scored a record-breaking 973 runs.
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BCCI Cricketer of the Year: Kohli has won the BCCI Cricketer of the Year award multiple times for his outstanding performances in domestic and international cricket.
7. Popularity and Recognition Globally:
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Forbes Highest-Paid Athletes: Virat is consistently featured on Forbes’ list of highest-paid athletes globally, ranking among the top athletes across various sports, based on his earnings from cricket and endorsements.
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Time 100 Most Influential People (2018): Kohli was listed among Time Magazine’s 100 most influential people in 2018, a testament to his influence on and off the field.
8. Sportsmanship and Philanthropy:
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UNICEF Ambassador: Kohli has been involved with UNICEF in various campaigns and philanthropic activities, using his platform to promote child rights, health, and education.
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Virat Kohli Foundation (2013): He established his own foundation to support underprivileged children, promoting fitness and sports across India.
9. Other Personal Honors:
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Best Athlete (2017 ESPYs): Kohli was honored as the Best Male Athlete at the ESPY Awards in 2017, recognizing his achievements as a cricketer.
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NDTV Indian of the Year (2017): Kohli was named the NDTV Indian of the Year in 2017 for his remarkable achievements in cricket and his positive influence on the sport.
10. Social Media Recognition:
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Most Followed Indian Athlete: Kohli is the most followed Indian athlete on platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook, solidifying his presence as a global icon.
Virat Kohli’s awards and recognitions reflect not only his excellence on the cricket field but also his influence and contribution to global sports and philanthropy. His consistency, leadership, and ability to perform in crucial moments have made him a role model for millions.
Virat Kohli Cricket Career Stats: A Record-Breaking Journey
Virat Kohli’s Cricket Career Stats: A Record-Breaking Journey
Virat Kohli’s cricket career has been nothing short of remarkable, with his consistent performances across all formats making him one of the most dominant and influential batsmen in the history of the game. Below is a breakdown of his record-breaking career stats that highlight his unmatched achievements:
1. ODI Career Stats:
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Matches Played: 275
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Innings: 266
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Runs Scored: 12,898
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Batting Average: 59.07
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Hundreds: 46 (Second most in ODI history, only behind Sachin Tendulkar)
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Fifties: 62
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Highest Score: 183
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Centuries in Chases: 20 (Most by any player)
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Strike Rate: 93.17
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Notable Record: Virat became the fastest player to score 8,000, 9,000, 10,000, and 11,000 runs in ODIs, setting numerous records along the way.
2. Test Career Stats:
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Matches Played: 108
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Innings: 190
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Runs Scored: 8,753
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Batting Average: 53.41
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Hundreds: 27
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Fifties: 25
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Highest Score: 254* (His first double century in Test cricket against West Indies in 2016)
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Strike Rate: 52.04
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Notable Record: Kohli became the fastest to 8,000 runs in Test cricket, surpassing many legends of the game.
3. T20I Career Stats:
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Matches Played: 115
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Innings: 103
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Runs Scored: 3,841
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Batting Average: 52.18
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Hundreds: 0
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Fifties: 31
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Highest Score: 90* (Against West Indies in 2016)
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Strike Rate: 138.24
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Notable Record: Kohli is considered the best finisher in T20 internationals, particularly in chases.
4. IPL Career Stats:
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Matches Played: 192
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Innings: 187
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Runs Scored: 6,800
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Batting Average: 38.16
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Hundreds: 5
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Fifties: 44
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Highest Score: 122* (2016)
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Strike Rate: 130.41
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Notable Record: Kohli holds the record for most runs in a single IPL season (973 runs in 2016), a feat that still stands.
5. Key Achievements:
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Fastest to 8,000/9,000/10,000/11,000 ODI Runs: Kohli set multiple records for the fastest to these landmarks in the history of ODIs.
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Most Centuries in Successful Chases: Kohli holds the record for the most centuries in successful chases, underlining his reputation as one of the best finishers in world cricket.
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ICC Awards: Kohli has been the recipient of several ICC awards, including ICC Cricketer of the Year, ODI Player of the Year, and Test Player of the Year multiple times.
6. Captaincy Stats:
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Matches as Captain (ODIs): 95
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Wins: 65
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Losses: 27
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Ties/No Results: 3
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Win Percentage: 70.43% (One of the highest win percentages as captain in ODI cricket)
7. Fastest to Achieve Milestones:
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Fastest to 8,000 Runs in ODIs: Kohli reached this milestone in just 175 innings, breaking the previous record held by the legendary Sachin Tendulkar (eclipsed in just 187 innings).
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Fastest to 10,000 Runs in ODIs: Kohli achieved this in 205 innings, surpassing Tendulkar’s record of 259 innings.
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Fastest to 20 International Hundreds: Kohli holds the record for being the fastest to score 20 international centuries, achieving the feat in just 402 matches, faster than any other batsman in history.
8. Record-Setting Performances:
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2013 ICC Champions Trophy: Kohli played a key role in India’s win in the ICC Champions Trophy 2013 and was one of the best performers in the tournament.
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2018 Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia: Under Kohli’s leadership, India won their first-ever Test series in Australia, with Kohli contributing significantly with the bat.
9. Impactful Innings:
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Kohli’s match-winning knocks, especially in tough situations, have made him a true master of run chases. His innings of 133 vs Sri Lanka (2017)* and 183 vs Pakistan (2012) are some of the most memorable ODI performances.
10. Leadership Records:
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Kohli’s aggressive and modern style of leadership transformed India into a powerhouse in world cricket, especially in Test cricket. Under his leadership, India achieved the number 1 ranking in Test cricket for the first time in 2016.
11. Test Cricket Dominance:
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Kohli’s ability to perform in overseas conditions, especially in countries like South Africa, Australia, and England, has been a defining feature of his Test career. His memorable innings in Australia and South Africa helped India compete on challenging foreign soils.
Virat Kohli’s career stats stand as a testament to his dedication, skill, and consistency. He has not only broken numerous records but also set new benchmarks that are expected to last for many years. Whether it’s his ability to chase down targets, dominate in all formats, or lead his team with authority, Kohli’s cricketing legacy is one of the most remarkable in the history of the sport.
Virat Kohli’s Greatest Records: The King of Centuries
Virat Kohli is a century machine. Here are some of his most iconic records:
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First Indian to score 50 International Centuries (combining ODIs and Tests)
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Fastest to 8,000, 9,000, 10,000, 12,000 Runs in ODIs
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Most Runs in ICC World Cup 2019: 354 runs
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First Player to Score Centuries in Four Consecutive World Cups
Fan Reaction:
“Virat’s century against Australia in 2018 is unforgettable. It was a game-changing moment in his career.” — Amit, 24, Delhi.
Virat Kohli’s Centuries & Records: Year-by-Year Performance
Test Runs Year-by-Year:
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2014: 1155 runs, Average 64.16
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2015: 1022 runs, Average 51.10
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2016: 1215 runs, Average 75.93
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2017: 1057 runs, Average 71.13
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2018: 1058 runs, Average 59.88
Kohli’s statistics in international cricket are staggering. Here are some key career stats:
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ODI Stats: Over 12,000 runs in ODIs with an average of 59.07 (as of 2025).
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Test Stats: Over 8,000 runs with an average of 53.41.
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T20I Stats: 3,000+ runs with an average of 52.65.
Virat Kohli Centuries and Milestones
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ODI Centuries: Kohli has 46 centuries in ODIs, making him the second-fastest player after Sachin Tendulkar to reach this milestone.
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Test Centuries: With 27 centuries in Test cricket, Kohli is one of the leading century-makers in this format.
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First Indian to score 50 international centuries.
| Milestone | Achievement |
|---|---|
| ODI Centuries | 46 (Second-most after Sachin Tendulkar) |
| Test Centuries | 27 (Second-most among active players) |
| Fastest to 8,000, 9,000, 10,000, 12,000 ODI Runs | Achieved these milestones faster than any player in history |
| Most Runs in a Calendar Year (ODI) | 1,500+ runs in 2017, setting the record for most runs in a calendar year in ODIs |
| First to 50 International Centuries (in ODIs and Tests) | Kohli became the fastest player to reach this landmark |
| Most ODI Runs in a Chasing Situation | 21 centuries while chasing (Most in ODIs) |
| Highest IPL Runs in a Single Season | 973 runs in 2016 IPL season (Record for most runs in a single IPL season) |
| Most Runs in a World Cup Edition | 354 runs in the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup (3rd highest runs in a single WC) |
Virat Kohli’s Role in IPL: Dominating the T20 Arena
Virat has been the heart and soul of RCB in the IPL. With over 6,000 runs and five centuries, Kohli has led the team through many highs and lows. His aggressive batting and leadership have made him one of the top players in IPL history.
Poll: Will RCB finally win the IPL under Virat Kohli’s leadership in the upcoming seasons?
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Yes, they are a solid team!
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No, they need better consistency.
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It’s time for a new leader.
Controversies & Criticism: The Other Side of Kohli
While Virat Kohli’s cricketing achievements have garnered him worldwide fame and admiration, his career has not been without its share of controversies and criticism. Known for his fiery personality, aggressive approach on the field, and outspoken nature, Kohli has often found himself at the center of media attention for reasons beyond his batting prowess. Here’s a closer look at some of the major controversies and criticism that have followed Kohli throughout his career:
1. On-field Aggression:
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Aggressive Behavior: Virat’s aggressive nature on the field has been a double-edged sword. While it has been one of the driving factors behind his success, it has also led to multiple incidents of confrontation with opposition players and umpires. His intense sledging (verbal banter) has sometimes drawn the ire of critics, who argue that it crosses the line of sportsmanship. One notable instance was his fiery altercation with Australian cricketer Steve Smith during the 2017 Test series in India, where Kohli’s competitive spirit was questioned by fans and media.
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The ‘Mankad’ Incident (2019): During the 2019 IPL, a controversy erupted when Rajasthan Royals’ Ravichandran Ashwin mankaded Kohli’s Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) teammate, Jos Buttler. Kohli, known for his aggressive style, was vocal in expressing his views on the incident, which sparked debates over the ethics of the Mankad dismissal.
2. Public Feuds with Fellow Cricketers:
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Conflict with Gautam Gambhir: Kohli’s relationship with fellow cricketer Gautam Gambhir has been strained over the years. Both players have exchanged heated words in the media on multiple occasions, with the most notable incident occurring during an IPL match in 2013, where Kohli and Gambhir were involved in a physical altercation on the field. Despite their differences, they later buried the hatchet, but their rivalry remains a part of Kohli’s career narrative.
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Disagreement with MS Dhoni: While Kohli shares a generally respectful relationship with former captain MS Dhoni, there have been reports suggesting differences between the two. Kohli took over as captain in 2017, and some speculated that the transition may not have been as smooth as it appeared. This sparked rumors of a rift between the two, though both have publicly denied any such issues.
3. Media and Social Media Controversies:
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Trolling and Social Media Backlash: Kohli’s active presence on social media, especially Instagram and Twitter, has often led to him being a target of trolls. From personal attacks on his family to criticism of his performance, Kohli has frequently been at the receiving end of online hate. One significant incident was during the 2018 Australian tour when Kohli faced severe criticism for his “soft” approach to media and his alleged harsh response to journalists’ questions.
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His ‘Unfollow’ of Celebrities (2018): Another incident that attracted attention was Kohli’s unfollowing of certain people on social media, including former cricketers like Shoaib Akhtar and Bollywood celebrities, which stirred rumors and curiosity among fans. Although Kohli later explained that his actions were personal choices, the incident sparked debates on his relationships within the cricketing community and the entertainment industry.
4. His Relationship with the Press:
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Media Backlash on Personal Life: Kohli’s relationship with Anushka Sharma has been highly publicized, and the media scrutiny they faced in the early years was intense. Virat, who is known to be protective of his private life, often expressed his frustration with media intrusion. The press, however, continued to follow him and his wife, sometimes to an uncomfortable degree, leading Kohli to lash out at reporters during press conferences and on social media.
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Post-2019 World Cup Criticism: After India’s semi-final exit from the 2019 ICC World Cup, Kohli faced immense criticism for his captaincy and batting performance, particularly during India’s loss to New Zealand. His decision to promote himself to No. 4 in the batting order was questioned, as was his failure to deliver in crucial moments. Critics, including former cricketers like Sourav Ganguly and Sunil Gavaskar, questioned his leadership during this period.
5. Fitness Criticism:
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Overemphasis on Fitness: Kohli’s focus on fitness and health has been widely praised, but there have been instances where his rigid stance on fitness standards has caused controversy. He has been known to bench players from the national team for failing to meet his fitness standards, leading to public debates over his approach. His strict policy on fitness was seen as divisive at times, especially during selections for major international tournaments.
6. Criticism Over Captaincy Decisions:
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Leadership Style: Kohli’s leadership style has been highly praised, but it has also come under scrutiny during certain phases of his career. His decision to step down as captain from limited-overs cricket in 2021 was met with mixed reactions. While his decision to lead the team for an extended period was commendable, critics pointed out that his aggressive leadership sometimes led to emotional decisions rather than tactical ones.
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World Cup 2019 and 2021 T20 World Cup: Kohli’s captaincy came under fire after India failed to win the 2019 World Cup, and again after the team’s poor performance in the 2021 T20 World Cup, where they failed to qualify for the semi-finals. His inability to win major ICC tournaments as captain left many questioning his leadership capabilities.
7. Personal Life Controversies:
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Public Feuds with Fans: Kohli’s interactions with fans on social media have not always been positive. He has occasionally gotten into arguments with his followers on Twitter and Instagram, particularly when they criticize him or his family. His reactions have drawn mixed responses, with some defending his right to privacy, while others believe he should maintain a level of patience given his celebrity status.
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His Outspoken Views on Mental Health: Kohli has been vocal about mental health awareness, particularly in sports, but he has also faced criticism for speaking out on certain issues. Some have seen his statements as too forward or controversial, particularly his stance on the mental pressures of playing international cricket, which he has openly discussed in interviews and on social media.
While Virat Kohli’s cricketing prowess is beyond question, his career has been marred by numerous controversies and instances of criticism. His fiery temperament, outspoken nature, and aggressive leadership have sparked debates about his conduct both on and off the field. However, Kohli has always maintained that he will continue to be himself, regardless of public opinion. His ability to rise above the controversies and focus on his game has helped him achieve remarkable success in international cricket.
Virat Kohli’s Family: His Father’s Legacy and the Importance of Support
Virat was deeply influenced by his father, Prem Kohli, who passed away in 2006. His father’s untimely death became a turning point in his career, pushing him to focus even more on his cricket.
His mother, Saroj Kohli, and wife, Anushka Sharma, have been strong emotional pillars throughout his life.
Did You Know? Kohli was extremely close to his father, and in several interviews, he has mentioned that his father’s death played a significant role in shaping his career and outlook on life.
Virat Kohli’s Retirement: What Lies Ahead?
As Virat approaches the latter stages of his career, the question on everyone’s mind is: When will he retire? Speculation is rife, with some suggesting he may retire after the 2023 ICC World Cup, while others believe he’ll continue to lead in Tests and ODIs for a few more years. At the age of 36, speculation about Kohli’s retirement is inevitable. While Kohli has not announced an official retirement, his diminishing participation in T20Is has led many to believe that he might focus on Test and ODI cricket in the coming years. With his fitness regime and passion for the game, Kohli might continue playing at the international level for a few more years
Virat Kohli’s Social Media Influence: Connecting with Fans Globally
Virat Kohli is very active on social media, where he shares personal insights, fitness routines, and messages for his fans. His Twitter account (@imVkohli) has millions of followers. Through Instagram, Kohli often posts glimpses of his family life, cricket moments, and charity initiatives. His posts reach millions, engaging fans globally.
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Virat Kohli Twitter: @imVkohli
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Virat Kohli Instagram: @virat.kohli
With over 200 million followers on Instagram and 43 million on Twitter, Virat Kohli’s social media presence is immense.
Virat Kohli’s Twitter account :
Virat Kohli’s Twitter account is a major platform where he shares personal updates, interacts with fans, and promotes causes close to his heart. His official handle is @imVkohli, and with millions of followers, it has become one of the most influential profiles in the sports world.
On his Twitter, Kohli often posts about his performances on the field, but he also shares glimpses of his personal life, including moments with his wife Anushka Sharma and daughter Vamika. His tweets regularly feature updates on his fitness routine, training, and thoughts on cricket. Additionally, Virat uses his Twitter account to support social causes, promote his brand endorsements, and advocate for mental and physical well-being.
Virat Kohli’s Instagram account :
Virat Kohli’s Instagram account is one of the most followed sports profiles in the world. His official handle is @virat.kohli, and with millions of followers, it offers an exclusive look into both his professional and personal life.
On Instagram, Kohli shares a mix of content, ranging from his on-field achievements, training sessions, and match-day moments, to off-field glimpses of his family life. He frequently posts pictures with his wife Anushka Sharma, daughter Vamika, and close friends. His fitness journey is also a major theme, with Virat often showcasing his workout routines, health tips, and dedication to maintaining peak physical condition.
Beyond his personal posts, Kohli also uses his Instagram to promote causes he believes in, like his foundation, the Virat Kohli Foundation, which supports underprivileged children and promotes sports in India. As a brand ambassador for numerous high-profile companies, he often features his collaborations and endorsements, giving fans a behind-the-scenes look at his professional life.
His Instagram is a reflection of his multifaceted personality—combining cricket, fitness, family, and philanthropy—making it a go-to platform for fans who want to connect with him beyond the cricket field.
His latest Instagram post celebrating a century against Australia has gone viral, garnering over 3 million likes in just a few hours.
Tweet:
“Hard work, dedication, and never giving up. Feeling blessed and grateful. #TeamIndia #CaptainVirat”
Virat Kohli’s Legacy: The Greatest of His Generation
Virat Kohli has already secured his place as one of the greatest batsmen in cricket history. Whether it’s his century record, his leadership, or his fitness regime, Kohli has left an indelible mark on the game.
Poll: Where does Virat Kohli rank among the all-time greats?
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Number 1 in ODIs
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Among the top 5 batsmen ever
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He’ll be remembered as the best-ever captain
The Future of Virat Kohli in Cricket
With his unrelenting passion and drive for excellence, Virat Kohli is a cricketer who will go down in history as one of the greatest ever to play the game. Whether leading India in upcoming World Cups or breaking more records, one thing is certain: Kohli’s impact on cricket will be felt for generations to come.
