Virat Kohli stands as one of cricket’s most dominant figures, transforming from a promising young talent to a global icon who has redefined what it means to be a modern cricketer. With over 27,000 international runs, 82 centuries, and a legacy of breaking records, Kohli’s journey from the streets of Delhi to becoming India’s most successful Test captain is nothing short of extraordinary.
Virat Kohli - Early life
Born on November 5, 1988, in Delhi, Virat Kohli’s cricketing journey began in a middle-class Punjabi Hindu family. His father, Prem Kohli, was a criminal lawyer, while his mother, Saroj Kohli, was a homemaker. Growing up with his elder brother Vikas and sister Bhawna, Kohli’s passion for cricket was evident from a young age.
The defining moment in Kohli’s early life came in 2006 when his father passed away due to a stroke. Remarkably, the 18-year-old Kohli chose to continue playing a crucial Ranji Trophy match for Delhi the day after his father’s death, demonstrating the mental fortitude that would become his trademark. This tragic event transformed Kohli into a more mature and determined individual, setting the foundation for his legendary career.
Kohli’s rise to prominence began with his captaincy of India’s Under-19 World Cup-winning team in 2008. Later that year, he made his ODI debut against Sri Lanka, scoring 12 runs from 22 balls while opening alongside Gautam Gambhir. His T20I debut followed in 2010 against Zimbabwe, where he contributed 26 runs off 21 balls.
Virat Kohli - Records
Test Cricket Excellence
Virat Kohli’s Test career showcases his evolution from a promising youngster to one of cricket’s greatest batsmen. Over 123 Test matches, he accumulated 9,230 runs at an impressive average of 46.85, including 30 centuries. His seven double centuries in Test cricket remain the most by any Indian batsman in the format’s history.
Kohli’s Test career statistics reveal his consistency across different periods :
Peak years (2016-2019): During this golden period, Kohli averaged over 55 in three consecutive years
Leadership excellence: As Test captain, he led India in 68 matches, securing 40 victories with a win percentage of 58.82%
Home dominance: Under his captaincy, India became virtually unbeatable at home, winning 24 Test matches
ODI Mastery and World Records
In One Day Internationals, Kohli has established himself as the format’s most prolific century-maker. With 51 ODI hundreds, he surpassed Sachin Tendulkar’s long-standing record of 49 centuries. His ODI statistics are remarkable:
Total runs: 14,181 runs in 290 innings at an average of 57.88
Strike rate: An impressive 93.34, showcasing his ability to score quickly
Chase master: Kohli’s reputation as the world’s best chaser is built on numerous successful run chases
The 2023 ODI World Cup marked a pinnacle in Kohli’s career, where he scored 765 runs – the most in a single World Cup edition, breaking Tendulkar’s 2003 record of 673 runs. His 50th ODI century came in the semi-final against New Zealand, with Tendulkar present in the audience to witness history.
T20I Impact and Recent Retirement
Although Kohli retired from T20I cricket after India’s 2024 T20 World Cup victory, his impact in the format was significant. He scored 1 century and accumulated substantial runs while serving as captain and key batsman. His retirement came after helping India secure the T20 World Cup title, adding to his collection of ICC trophies.
Virat Kohli - IPL legacy
Kohli’s Indian Premier League journey with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) represents one of cricket’s most enduring partnerships. As the only player to represent a single franchise throughout IPL history, Kohli’s loyalty finally paid off in 2025 when RCB won their maiden IPL title.
IPL Records and Achievements
Kohli holds numerous IPL records :
Most runs: 8,661 runs in 267 matches
Most centuries: 8 hundreds in IPL history
Most fifties: 63 half-centuries
Most boundaries: First player to hit over 770 fours in IPL
Most matches for single franchise: 267 matches for RCB
In IPL 2025, Kohli broke multiple records while leading RCB to their first championship.
Virat Kohli - Captaincy records
Test Captaincy Records
Kohli’s tenure as India’s Test captain from 2015 to 2022 was marked by unprecedented success :
68 Test matches as captain: Most by any Indian skipper
40 victories: Highest success rate of 58.8% among Indian Test captains
Home dominance: 24 Test wins at home, breaking MS Dhoni’s record
Overseas success: Notable series victories in Australia, Sri Lanka, and West Indies
Overall Captaincy Statistics
Across all formats, Kohli captained India in 213 matches, securing 137 victories with a win percentage of 64.31%. His leadership transformed India into the world’s number one Test team for consecutive years (2017, 2018, 2019).
Virat Kohli - Career and lifestyle
Test Retirement (2025)
In May 2025, Kohli announced his retirement from Test cricket, ending one of the most successful captaincy tenures in Indian cricket history. His decision surprised many, with even Taliban leader Anas Haqqani expressing his wish for Kohli to continue playing until age 50.
Champions Trophy 2025 Performance
Kohli’s performance in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy demonstrated his continued excellence in ODI cricket. He finished fifth in the run-scoring charts with 218 runs at an average of 54.50, including a memorable unbeaten century against Pakistan. His contributions were crucial to India’s third Champions Trophy victory.
Fitness Revolution and Lifestyle Transformation
Kohli’s transformation into cricket’s fittest player began with a complete lifestyle overhaul. His diet philosophy is built on simplicity and nutrition :
90% steamed and boiled food: No masalas, only salt, pepper, and lime
Plant-based protein: After turning vegetarian in 2018, Kohli relies entirely on plant-based protein sources
High-protein, low-fat approach: Moderate carbohydrates with emphasis on protein and minimal fat
Specific foods: Dal, rajma, lobia, quinoa, tofu, and green vegetables form his dietary staples
Workout Regimen
Kohli’s fitness routine combines multiple training methodologies :
Compound movements: Squats, deadlifts, bench press, and pull-ups for overall strength
High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT): Short bursts of intense exercise for cardiovascular fitness
Functional exercises: Movements that enhance on-field performance
Recovery focus: Cold showers, hydration with alkaline water, and post-workout protein shakes
Business Ventures
Kohli has built an impressive business portfolio spanning multiple sectors :
One8: His premium athleisure brand and restaurant chain
WROGN: Fashion brand targeting youth demographics
Blue Tribe: Plant-based meat product company
Investments: Stakes in Rage Coffee, Digit Insurance, FC Goa, and Team Blue Rising
Brand Endorsements
As one of India’s most marketable athletes, Kohli commands premium endorsement fees of ₹5-10 crore per brand. His major partnerships include :
Puma: ₹110 crore eight-year deal signed in 2017
MRF Tyres: ₹12.5 crore annually
Additional brands: Myntra, Audi India, Hero MotoCorp, HSBC India, and over 20 other major brands
Virat Kohli - Personal life
Marriage and Parenthood
Kohli’s marriage to Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma in 2017 created one of India’s most celebrated celebrity couples. They have a daughter, Vamika, and their relationship exemplifies the balance between high-profile careers and family values.
Family Influence
The support of his mother Saroj Kohli and siblings Vikas and Bhawna has been crucial throughout his journey. His mother’s unwavering support, especially after his father’s death, helped shape his character and determination.
International Recognition
Kohli’s achievements extend beyond statistics to include numerous prestigious awards :
ICC Awards: Holds record for most ICC awards (10) by an individual
National honors: Arjuna Award (2013), Padma Shri (2017), Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award (2018)
Global following: Over 264 million Instagram followers, making him the third most-followed athlete worldwide
Influence on Modern Cricket
Kohli’s impact on cricket extends beyond personal achievements:
Fitness standards: Revolutionized fitness culture in Indian cricket
Aggressive approach: Changed the template for modern batting with his aggressive style
Leadership philosophy: Emphasized winning mentality and result-oriented cricket
Conclusion
At 36 years old, Kohli remains active in ODI cricket while having retired from Tests and T20Is. His focus on the 50-over format allows him to target major tournaments like the 2027 ODI World Cup. With his fitness regime and dedication, cricket experts believe he could continue playing at the highest level for several more years.
Kohli’s recent performances in the 2025 Champions Trophy and IPL 2025 championship victory demonstrate that age has not diminished his capabilities. His evolution from an aggressive young batsman to a mature, technically sound player ensures his continued relevance in world cricket.
Virat Kohli’s journey represents the perfect blend of natural talent, relentless hard work, and unwavering dedication. From overcoming personal tragedy at 18 to becoming one of cricket’s greatest players, his story continues to inspire millions worldwide. With 82 international centuries, multiple ICC trophies, and a legacy of transforming cricket’s fitness culture, Kohli has truly earned his place among the sport’s immortals.
As he continues to compete at the highest level in ODI cricket, Kohli’s hunger for success remains undiminished. Whether breaking new records or mentoring young talent, the King of Cricket continues to write new chapters in his extraordinary story, cementing his status as one of the greatest sportsmen of his generation.