In 1988 a great cricketer “Virat Kohli” was born to create history in Indian Cricket. He is an enthusiastic cricketer who has changed the face of modern cricket. Virat Kohli is also known as the “Run Machine” and “King Kohli.” Many world records have been broken in Cricket history by Kohli. He is in 2nd place for most centuries in cricket after Sachin Tendulkar.
At a very young age, he achieved everything that was very difficult for big players. His aggressive behaviour fitness and leadership skills gave him a different identity in the cricket world. The story of Kohli’s life, who came from a simple family and has made his mark in the world of cricket today, is one of perseverance, determination, and relentless pursuit of excellence.
Early Life and Family Background
Virat Kohli comes from a Punjabi family. His father Prem Kohli was a criminal lawyer and his mother Saroj Kohli was a housemaker. Apart from him, his family includes his elder brother Vikas and sister Bhavana. Virat Kohli did his early studies at Vishal Bharti Public School, Delhi. He studied here till 9th class. After that, he was admitted to Saviour Convent School, Paschim Vihar, Delhi and studied there till the 12th. Virat Kohli was inclined towards cricket from a very young age. He used to spend most of his time playing cricket in the narrow streets of Delhi.
His father was very impressed by his passion for cricket. He got Virat Kohli admitted to the West Delhi Cricket Academy (WDCA). Where he was trained under Rajkumar Sharma. His coach recognized his talent very quickly and addressed him as a natural cricketer with a lot of hunger to learn. His father did not let the financial crunch come in the way of his dream. His family wholeheartedly supported him in his dream.
A very difficult time came in Virat Kohli’s life when his father died due to a cerebral attack. That day was very painful for him and the next day he had to play a Ranji match for Delhi. Virat demonstrated exceptional resilience, choosing to play a Ranji Trophy match for Delhi the very next day. The decision taken by him in this incident showed his mental strength and passion for cricket.
Journey to Professional Cricket
That day was special for Virat Kohli when he won the U-19 cricket World Cup. This was the 2008 U-19 World Cup final held in Malaysia. Virat Kohli was captaining the U-19 cricket team. This match was being played between India and South Africa. The result was India won by the rule of Duckworth–Lewis method. After this, Kohli’s name became famous worldwide and he was selected for the Indian cricket team, and from there he started climbing the ladder of success.
After winning the U-19 World Cup, Kohli entered the Indian domestic game and played first-class cricket for Delhi. National selectors were drawn to his aggressive batting style and capacity for handling pressure. He soon began an amazing international career after being picked into the Indian squad.
On 18 August 2008, his international cricket debut was made against Sri Lanka. India and Sri Lanka played an ODI match series. Virat Kohli’s debut was not very good and he scored just 12 runs in his first match and played at an average of approx. 32 in the entire series.
After this Virat Kohli never looked back. Kohli created many records in the cricket world and made his name immortal in cricket by breaking many records. Kohli broke Sachin Tendulkar’s record of 49 centuries in ODI format. Kohli holds the record for the most (50) ODI centuries among active cricketers. After this, the entire cricket world started knowing Kohli as a “Run Machine”.
Virat was selected for the T20 and Test teams due to his reliable ODI performances. In 2010, he emerged as a key player in T20 cricket, establishing himself. His smooth chase of targets, batting technique, technical precision and an irrepressible desire for runs were characteristic of his batting.
Rise to Stardom
The 2011 World Cup was a real game-changer for Virat Kohli. He hit his first World Cup century in this match and was super important in India’s win. His 35-run partnership with Gautam Gambhir helped steady the innings that had started a bit clumsily.
Kohli really killed it in every format. He’s got this nickname, the “Chase Master,” because he shines in those super tense moments. He’s had some unforgettable innings that made him a key player for India.
- Virat Kohli scored 133 runs in 86 balls against Sri Lanka in 2012. Virat Kohli single-handedly chased down a target of 321 runs.
- Virat Kohli played his best innings against Pakistan. This match was in the Asia Cup 2012. In which Kohli scored the highest ODI score of his career (183). In reply to Pakistan’s 329 runs, India achieved the target in just 47.5 overs.
Leadership and Captaincy
Virat Kohli’s captaincy began in 2014 when he was made the captain of the Indian Test team. Under the captaincy of Virat Kohli, India achieved the number 1 Test ranking and maintained it for 42 months. Kohli infused enthusiasm and aggression in the team which made the Indian team emerge as a strong team.
Notable achievements under Kohli’s captaincy include:
- India won the Test series in Australia for the first time in 2018–19.
- Leading the team India to the final of the ICC World Test Championship 2021.
- India won 40 test matches under his captaincy.
Personal Life
In December 2017, Virat Kohli got married to Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma in Italy. They had a daughter (Vamika) in January 2021. In the year 2024, on 15 February, Kohli had a son whom he named “Akaay”. They are a blessed couple & inspire others to how can manage their professional or personal lives together.
Apart from all this, Kohli is very passionate about his fitness. He is credited with revolutionizing the fitness standards in Indian cricket. He made a major change to his diet in 2018, adopting a plant-based diet and following a rigorous workout routine that inspires world athletes.
Records and Achievements
ODI Records:
- Fastest to 12000 runs in ODIs.
- Highest Number of Centuries (50) in ODIs.
Test Records:
- 7 double centuries, the most by any Indian batsman
- Over 9,163 Test runs with an average of 47.7.
T20 Records:
- Leading run-scorer in T20 international matches.
- Players with the most half-centuries (38) in T20 international matches.
His Awards Include:
- ICC Cricketer of the Decade (2011-2020).
- Arjuna Award (2013)
- Padma Shri (2017).
- Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna (2018).
Legacy and Future
Virat Kohli has become an inspiration for young cricketers. More than 25000 international runs are amazing. Kohli set an example of excellence, determination, dedication, & Passion for Cricket.
Apart from sports, Kohli also contributes to child welfare and animal rights and has invested in ventures like fitness centres and fashion brands. Beyond cricket, his influence will continue to shape the lives of aspiring athletes and fans worldwide.
Use Resources:-
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Virat_Kohli
Frequently Asked Question
Who is Virat Kohli?
Virat Kohli is an Indian Cricketer also know as “Run Master” in the cricket world. Virat Kohli holds the record for scoring the fastest 12000 runs. He has also been awarded the ICC Cricketer of the Decade (2011-2020), Padma Shri, and Arjuna Award.
What is the educational qualification of Virat Kohli?
Virat Kohli has studied till the 12th, then he focused more on cricket.
How many centuries has Virat Kohli hit so far?
Kohli has hit 81 centuries throughout all cricket formats combined.
What is the name of Virat Kohli’s son?
Virat Kohli Son name is “Akkay”. He was born on 15 Feb 2024.
What is called of Virat Kohli in the Indian Team?
“Cheeku” is the nickname of Virat Kohli.
How many runs has Virat Kohli scored so far?
Virat Kohli has delivered amazing performances in all formats, scoring 13906 runs in ODIs, 9163 runs in Tests, and 4,188 runs in T20.