New Delhi: India’s cricket sensation, Virat Kohli, turns 36 today, marking yet another year in a career filled with record-breaking feats and unforgettable performances. Born on November 5, 1988, in Delhi, Kohli has become one of the most revered names in international cricket. Despite his recent struggles with form, Kohli remains a pivotal part of Indian cricket, with fans and critics alike closely watching his every move. While some question his current impact on the team, Kohli’s remarkable journey from a young cricketer to a global icon speaks volumes about his resilience and skill.
Early Life and Tragic Loss That Shaped Kohli’s Determination
Kohli’s story began in West Delhi, where he was born to Premji Kohli, a lawyer, and Saroj Kohli. Kohli’s father passed away in 2006 when he was playing a Ranji Trophy match for Delhi. Remarkably, he chose to stay with the team despite learning of his father’s demise, demonstrating his dedication to cricket even in the face of personal loss. After attending his father’s last rites, Kohli returned to the field, scoring crucial runs for his team and laying the foundation for his future career. This moment proved to be a turning point, highlighting his unwavering commitment and mental strength qualities that have defined his illustrious journey.
In December 2017, Kohli married Bollywood star Anushka Sharma in a private ceremony in Italy. The couple now has two children and often spends time in London, with Kohli returning to India during cricket seasons.
Rising to Fame: The Under-19 Triumph and International Breakthrough
Kohli’s path to fame began with a defining moment in 2008 when he led the Indian Under-19 team to victory in the World Cup. This accomplishment echoed India’s earlier U-19 win under Mohammad Kaif, solidifying Kohli’s potential as a future cricketing star. Later that year, he made his international debut in an ODI against Sri Lanka, followed by T20 and Test cricket debuts against Zimbabwe and the West Indies, respectively.
Struggles and Resurgence: Kohli’s Rollercoaster Years (2019–2022)
Between 2019 and 2022, Kohli faced one of the most challenging periods of his career. After scoring a century in 2019, he went through an unexpected drought, unable to produce big innings. His struggle with form ignited debates among fans and experts, with some suggesting he consider retirement. Yet, Kohli’s persistence paid off, and he eventually returned to form, proving his critics wrong and reclaiming his title as one of the finest batsmen in the world. His outstanding performance in the T20 World Cup further reestablished his legacy, earning him the moniker “King Kohli.”
A Legacy in T20 Cricket: Kohli’s Farewell from the Format
In June this year, Kohli announced his retirement from T20 International cricket. He ended his T20 career on a high note, scoring 76 runs in his final match and earning the Man of the Match award. His T20 journey, which began on June 12, 2010, concluded after a remarkable 14 years, during which he played 125 matches, scoring 4,188 runs with an impressive average of 48.69. Kohli ranks second in overall T20 runs, trailing only Rohit Sharma. He also holds the record for the highest runs in T20 World Cups, with 1,292 runs and 15 half-centuries.
A Stellar Career Record Across All Formats
Kohli’s career stats stand as a testament to his impact on Indian and global cricket. In Test matches, he has amassed 9,040 runs in 118 games at an average of 47.83, with 29 centuries and 31 half-centuries. His One Day International (ODI) career is even more impressive, with 13,906 runs in 295 matches, averaging 58.18 with 50 centuries and 72 half-centuries. However, as Kohli’s recent form has come under scrutiny, questions about his longevity and future in the team have become more prominent. With several young talents emerging, Kohli’s performance in the coming months could determine his position in the squad.
As Virat Kohli celebrates another year, fans and cricket enthusiasts are left wondering: will Kohli return to his golden form and continue to dominate the game, or is this the beginning of a new chapter in his legendary career? For now, the cricket world watches and waits, hopeful that Kohli has many more milestones to achieve.
