Virat Kohli, the Indian international cricketer, is widely admired for his incredible prowess on the field. Born on November 5, 1988, in Delhi, he emerged from the vibrant streets of India's capital and swiftly established himself as a cricketing force to be reckoned with. From a young age, his right-handed batting style showcased exceptional talent, perfectly complementing his role as a master batsman. What sets him apart, however, is not just his remarkable skill, but also his exceptional leadership qualities and relentless aggression, which have propelled the Indian cricket team to countless victories. As a result, the "Virat Kohli biography" is an enthralling study for fans and enthusiasts alike, offering a unique insight into the life of this cricketing icon. Whether you're looking for a comprehensive virat kohli biography in English or are simply curious to learn more about this legendary cricketer, this biography is sure to captivate and inspire.
This comprehensive guide aims to chart Kohli's journey from his early days in Delhi cricket to becoming a linchpin in International cricket, leading Royal Challengers Bangalore in the IPL, and his key role in India's campaigns at the cricket world cup. Alongside his achievements on the field, this article will delve into his personal life, including his marriage to Anushka Sharma, his leadership on and off the field, notable recognitions like the Padma Shri and Arjuna Award, and his philanthropic efforts through the Virat Kohli Foundation.
Early Life and Entry into Cricket
Virat Kohli's cricketing journey began in the bustling city of Delhi, where he was born on November 5, 1988. From a young age, Kohli was introduced to cricket by his father, Prem Kohli, who nurtured his son's passion when he was just three years old. This early exposure to the sport set the foundation for his future in cricket.
At the age of nine, Kohli started receiving formal cricket training at the West Delhi Cricket Academy. His dedication and skill were evident as he progressed through various age groups, playing for Delhi Under-15, Under-17, and Under-19 teams. His performances in these junior teams were not just participatory; they were marked by significant achievements and a growing reputation as a promising young batsman.
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Kohli's major breakthrough came in 2006 when he made his domestic debut for Delhi against Services, where he began to showcase his capabilities on a larger stage. The same year, he scored an impressive 90 runs in a first-class match against Karnataka, further solidifying his position as a talented young cricketer.
The pinnacle of his early cricketing career was leading the Indian team to victory at the Under-19 Cricket World Cup in Malaysia in 2008. This victory was not just a win on the field; it catapulted Kohli into the national spotlight and marked him as a future star of Indian cricket.
Throughout his early years, Kohli's upbringing in Uttam Nagar and his education at Vishal Bharti Public School and later at Saviour Convent Secondary School played a crucial role. These experiences in the socio-cultural milieu of West Delhi, characterized by a brashness and a 'we can make something out of nothing' spirit, shaped not only his personality but also his approach to the game.
Kohli's early life and entry into cricket are a testament to the blend of familial support, personal determination, and the vibrant cricketing culture of Delhi that nurtured his talents, setting him on the path to international cricket stardom.
Indian Premier League
Virat Kohli has been a pivotal figure in the Indian Premier League (IPL), playing exclusively for the Royal Challengers Bangalore since the inception of the league. His role as a right-handed batsman and occasional medium-fast bowler has been crucial for the team's performance over the years.
Performance Overview
Kohli's IPL career is marked by impressive statistics. He has participated in 248 matches, amassing 7,805 runs at an average of 38.45. This includes 8 centuries and 54 fifties, highlighting his consistent performance and ability to play under pressure . In the 2024 IPL season alone, Kohli played 11 matches, scoring 542 runs with an average of 67.75, which included one century and four fifties.
Record Achievements
Kohli holds several records in the IPL, including the most runs scored by an individual in the league's history (6,624 runs), the highest number of runs in a single season (973 in 2016), and the most centuries by an Indian player in the IPL (5) . His highest single-game score was 113, achieved against Kings XI Punjab in 2016. Additionally, Kohli's partnerships with AB de Villiers and Chris Gayle have been particularly noteworthy, accumulating 3,123 and 2,787 runs respectively, making them some of the most prolific partnerships in IPL history.
Leadership and Loyalty
As a testament to his commitment and leadership, Kohli has played the most matches for Bangalore, totaling 223 games, and has taken the most catches (93) for the team. He is also the only player to have been with the same franchise since the first season of the IPL, underscoring his loyalty and importance to the team.
Milestones
Kohli's achievements include being the first player to score over 4,000 runs in IPL victories, and he was the first Indian batter to surpass 12,500 runs in T20 cricket, marking significant milestones in both the IPL and his career.
Despite the Royal Challengers Bangalore not securing an IPL title, Kohli’s popularity and performance have made the team one of the most followed and celebrated in the league. His ongoing contributions continue to shape the franchise's strategies and performances in the competitive landscape of the IPL.
Rise to International Fame
Virat Kohli's Meteoric Ascent in International Cricket
Virat Kohli's journey to international cricket stardom is marked by numerous records and accolades that underline his status as one of the game's greats. His aggressive yet composed leadership has not only won matches but also inspired a generation of cricketers. Below are key highlights of his illustrious career:
- Record-Breaking Performances: Kohli holds the record for the most centuries in ODI cricket, with 50 centuries, and stands second in the list of most international centuries scored, totaling 80.
- Pioneering Achievements: He was the first player to score 1,000 ODI runs in just 11 innings in a single calendar year, setting a new benchmark in 2018.
- Global Recognition: His excellence on the field has earned him the ICC ODI Player of the Year award four times and the prestigious Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy twice. Additionally, he was named the Wisden Leading Cricketer in the World for three consecutive years from 2016 to 2018.
- Influential Presence: Recognized globally, Kohli was included in Time magazine's list of the 100 most influential people in the world in 2018. He is also the most followed Asian individual on Instagram, with over 266 million followers, showcasing his massive impact both on and off the field.
- Fitness and Strategy: Transforming into a fitness icon, Kohli has set new standards for dedication, physical fitness, and mental toughness, influencing the entire sports culture in India.
- Milestone Centuries: He has scored 29 centuries in Test matches and 50 in ODIs, with his centuries spread across various challenging international pitches, demonstrating his versatility and technical proficiency.
- Leadership and Strategy: Known for his strategic acumen, Kohli's captaincy has been pivotal in shaping the modern era of Indian cricket, combining physical rigor with mental toughness.
Kohli's contributions extend beyond mere statistics, as he has fundamentally transformed how cricket is played and perceived in India. His journey from a young talent to a cricketing icon is a testament to his hard work, perseverance, and unyielding dedication to the sport.
Nickname of Virat Kohli
Virat Kohli, affectionately known as "Chiku," has a nickname that traces back to his early cricketing days. The origin of this unique moniker is quite interesting and is deeply rooted in his childhood and cricketing beginnings. Here's how the name "Chiku" became synonymous with Kohli:
- Early Nickname Origins: The nickname "Chiku," sometimes also spelled as "Cheeku" or "Chikoo," was first given to Kohli during his younger days. It was inspired by a cartoon character from the comic book Champak, which featured a rabbit named 'Cheeku' known for his big cheeks.
- From Coach to Popular Culture: Kohli's first-class cricket coach played a pivotal role in christening him with this nickname due to Kohli's prominent cheeks during his youth. However, it was MS Dhoni, the former Indian captain, who popularized the nickname. Dhoni would often call out "Chiku" from behind the stumps during matches, making the nickname familiar to cricket fans worldwide.
- The Story Behind 'Chikoo': The more detailed story of how "Chikoo" stuck as Kohli's nickname was revealed in a book titled 'Driven'. During a Ranji Trophy match in Mumbai, Kohli had his hair cut very short, which led Ajit Chowdhary, the assistant coach, to remark that Kohli looked like a 'Chikoo' (Sapodilla) because of his rounded face and cropped hair. This humorous comment among the team members stuck, and Kohli has been known as "Chikoo" ever since.
This nickname not only highlights a lighter side of Kohli's personality but also reflects the camaraderie and the informal bonds typical within cricket teams. It serves as a reminder of his roots and the journey he has undertaken from a young cricket enthusiast to a global sports icon.
Captaincy and Leadership
Virat Kohli's Leadership Metrics
Test Leadership
- Matches as Captain: 68
- Winning Percentage: 58.82%
- Consecutive Test Series Wins (Record): Achieved under Kohli's captaincy
- ICC Test Rankings: Guided India to the number one spot
One Day Internationals (ODIs)
- Matches as Captain: 95
- Winning Percentage: 65%
- Runs Scored as Captain: 5549
- Batting Average as Captain: 72.65
Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is)
- Matches as Captain: 50
- Winning Percentage: 64.58%
- Unique Achievement: Won T20I series in every SENA country (South Africa, England, New Zealand, Australia)
Leadership Style and Impact
- Transformation in Fitness: Kohli's emphasis on fitness has reshaped the Indian team's approach, making physical fitness a core element of their strategy.
- Cultural Impact: Instilled a mindset of fearlessness, enabling the team to perform confidently both at home and abroad.
- Tactical Approach: Known for a verbally aggressive style yet tends to adopt defensive strategies during play. This includes setting fields more focused on protecting boundaries rather than aggressive field placements to stop singles.
- World Cup Leadership: Faced criticism for team management and player selection during the 2019 Cricket World Cup.
Contributions to Team India's Success
- World Cup and Trophies: Played a crucial role in India winning the 2011 Cricket World Cup and the 2013 ICC Champions Trophy. Led the team to hold the ICC Test mace for three consecutive years (2017, 2018, 2019).
- Matches as Captain: Stands as the 8th most experienced captain with 213 matches led.
Virat Kohli's captaincy is not just about the records he has set or the matches he has won; it's about the indelible mark he has left on the team, shaping a new era of Indian cricket with his leadership qualities. His approach has been a blend of rigorous fitness standards, strategic acumen, and a fearless attitude that has redefined team dynamics and performance on the global stage.
Notable Records and Achievements
ICC Recognitions and Global Impact
Virat Kohli's cricketing prowess has earned him prestigious accolades, including being named ICC ODI Player of the Year four times and receiving the Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy twice . His consistency and dominance in the sport were highlighted when he was named the Wisden Leading Cricketer in the World for three consecutive years from 2016 to 2018.
Record-Breaking Performances in Cricket
Kohli's record-breaking achievements are numerous. He holds the record for the most runs in T20Is and IPL, with scores of 4037 and 7624 respectively. He was the first to score 1,000 ODI runs in just 11 innings in a calendar year during 2018, showcasing his extraordinary batting skills . Additionally, he stands as the highest run-scorer in T20I and IPL, ranks third in ODI, and is the fourth-highest in international cricket overall .
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Leadership in Numbers
Under Kohli's leadership, he achieved the unique distinction of being ranked number one in ICC rankings across all three formats of the game—ODI, T20I, and Test—making him the only Indian cricketer to hold this position simultaneously. His strategic acumen and on-field decisions have significantly influenced India's cricketing stature on the global stage.
Milestones and More
Kohli's cricketing journey is marked by milestones that set new benchmarks in the sport. He is the first player to score 20,000 runs in a decade, a feat recognized by the International Cricket Council when they named him the male cricketer of the decade in 2020. His record of scoring the most runs in a series (765) in One-Day Internationals and having the highest career batting average (58.67) in the same format further cements his place as a cricketing legend.
Consistency Across Formats
Kohli's ability to perform consistently across all formats is evident from his impressive statistics. He has scored the most fifties (38) and the second-highest number of runs (4037) in Twenty20 Internationals. His knack for big scores is also reflected in his tally of 29 centuries in Tests and 50 in ODIs.
Fielding and Fitness
Apart from his batting, Kohli's fielding skills are noteworthy. He has taken 52 catches in Twenty20 Internationals, ranking as the eighth most in history. His fitness and agility on the field have set new standards in cricket, influencing younger players to emphasize fitness in their training regimes.
Virat Kohli's records and achievements not only highlight his exceptional skills and dedication but also his influence in shaping modern cricket. His journey from a talented young cricketer to a global sports icon is a testament to his hard work, perseverance, and an unyielding dedication to the sport.
Beyond Cricket
Philanthropic Endeavors and Business Ventures
Virat Kohli's influence extends well beyond the cricket field, impacting both business and philanthropy significantly. His commitment to social causes is evident through the Virat Kohli Foundation, which emphasizes education and healthcare for underprivileged children. This dedication to philanthropy, combined with his global influence, notably contributed to cricket's inclusion in the 2028 LA Olympics.
Endorsements and Media Appearances
Kohli's marketability is unparalleled, with a brand value that soared to ₹1,000 crore in 2023, making him one of the most lucrative figures in sports endorsements. His portfolio includes major brands like Puma, Audi, and Myntra. Kohli's appeal also extends to entertainment, where he has made appearances in films and web series, such as a cameo in "Student of the Year 2" and a role in "Breathe: Into the Shadows".
Digital Ventures and Sports Investments
Kohli has diversified his investments across various domains, including his involvement in FC Goa, a fashion brand WROGN, fitness centers under the brand Chisel, and a collaboration with Puma. He also ventured into digital platforms with his mobile game "Virat Kohli: World Cricket Champion," developed by Nextwave Multimedia.
Recognition and Influence
His influence is recognized worldwide, having been included in Time magazine's list of the 100 most influential people in 2018. Kohli's social media presence is formidable, with 250 million followers on Instagram, ranking him as the third most-followed athlete globally. This vast reach not only enhances his brand but also amplifies his ability to impact social change through his philanthropic efforts.
Awards
National and International Recognition
Virat Kohli's illustrious career has been adorned with numerous awards and honors, reflecting his dominance in the sport of cricket. Here are some of the key accolades he has received:
- National Honors: Kohli was honored with the Arjuna Award in 2013, recognizing his contributions to Indian sports. He received the Padma Shri, India's fourth-highest civilian award, in 2017 for his excellence in cricket. The pinnacle of national sports awards in India, the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna, was bestowed upon him in 2018.
- ICC Awards: His global impact is highlighted by multiple ICC awards. Kohli was named the ICC ODI Cricketer of the Year in 2012, 2017, and 2018, and also clinched the ICC Test Player of the Year in 2018. He has been a consistent presence in the ICC Teams of the Year across formats, showcasing his versatility and excellence.
- Special Recognitions: Kohli's performance against Sri Lanka in 2012, where he scored 133 not out, was voted the ODI Batting Performance of the Year by ESPNcricinfo. In 2020, he was awarded the prestigious ICC Cricketer of the Decade, signifying his sustained excellence and influence over ten years.
- Leadership and Consistency: Under his captaincy, Kohli has led teams that have frequently featured in the ICC Teams of the Year, reflecting his leadership and consistent performances. He was also part of the ICC Men’s Team of the Decade for 2011–2020 in all three formats, serving as the captain of the Test team.
- Record Holder in ICC Awards: Kohli holds the record for the most ICC awards won by an individual, with a total of 10 awards, underscoring his status as one of the game's greats.
These awards not only highlight Kohli's skill and dedication but also his ability to perform under pressure and his influence in shaping modern cricket.
Conclusion
Reflecting on Virat Kohli's journey, it's evident that his contribution to cricket transcends the boundaries of the cricket field, establishing him not just as a sports icon but as a global influencer. His relentless pursuit of excellence, evidenced by groundbreaking records, leadership prowess, and philanthropic undertakings, underscores a legacy that extends far beyond his batting average. Kohli's story is one of ambition, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to growth, both personally and professionally, embodying the spirit of cricket in every aspect of his life.
Beyond mere statistics, Kohli's impact is measured in the inspiration he offers to millions and the transformative effect he has had on the game. His journey serves as a compelling narrative of resilience and hard work, paving the way for future champions. As we consider the significance of his career, it's clear that Virat Kohli is not only a chapter in the history of cricket but a beacon for excellence, motivating aspiring athletes and non-athletes alike to dare to dream and relentlessly pursue their passions.
FAQs
What age did Virat Kohli begin his cricket career?
Virat Kohli started his journey in cricket as a youngster and made his first appearance in domestic cricket for Delhi at the tender age of 18. His international debut for the Indian cricket team came in August 2008 during a One Day International match against Sri Lanka.
Can you provide a brief overview of Virat Kohli's early life and career?
Virat Kohli was born on November 5, 1988, in Delhi, India. He was among the early trainees at the West Delhi Cricket Academy, established in 1998. Kohli's cricketing prowess was evident early on as he topped the run-scoring charts for the Delhi Under-15 team in 2002 and continued his form into the 2003–04 Vijay Merchant Trophy for the Delhi Under-17 team.
What is Virat Kohli's sister's occupation?
Bhawna Kohli Dhingra is not only a pillar of support for her brother, Virat, but she also plays a significant role in One8 Select, an enterprise owned by Virat Kohli that is involved in fashion and restaurant businesses.
What is the name of Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma's son?
Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma have announced the name of their son as Akaay. They welcomed their baby boy and Vamika's little brother into the world on February 15, with hearts brimming with joy and love.
Is Virat Kohli vegan?
Virat Kohli's impact extends far beyond the cricket field. He has become a symbol of determination and success, inspiring individuals from all walks of life to pursue their dreams relentlessly. As a role model for excellence, Kohli's journey serves as a reminder that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible. Whether you're an aspiring athlete or not, Kohli's story is a testament to the power of passion and the pursuit of greatness.
How many 100 runs does Virat Kohli have?
Virat Kohli holds the record for the most centuries in One Day Internationals (ODIs) by an Indian cricketer. As of now, he has scored a staggering 43 centuries in ODIs, solidifying his position as one of the greatest batsmen in the history of the sport. His consistent performance and ability to score big runs have made him a force to be reckoned with in the cricketing world.
What is the data of Virat Kohli?
Virat Kohli's data includes his date of birth, which is November 5, 1988, and his place of birth, which is Delhi, India. Additionally, his cricketing career began in August 2008 when he made his international debut for the Indian cricket team during a One Day International match against Sri Lanka. Since then, Kohli has achieved numerous milestones and records, solidifying his status as one of the greatest cricketers of all time.
What does Virat Kohli's brother do?
Virat Kohli's brother, Vikas Kohli, is a well-known personality in the music industry. He is a music director and composer, having worked on various projects and collaborations with renowned artists. Vikas has contributed his talent and creativity to the world of music, carving his own path of success alongside his famous brother.
Why did Virat Kohli stop eating meat?
Virat Kohli made the decision to stop eating meat due to his commitment to a vegan lifestyle. He believes in the ethical treatment of animals and the environmental benefits of a plant-based diet. Kohli has been vocal about his choice and hopes to inspire others to consider the impact of their food choices on both their health and the planet.
Does Virat Kohli have tattoos?
Yes, Virat Kohli does have tattoos. He has a total of four tattoos on his body. One of his tattoos is a golden dragon on his right forearm, which symbolizes power and strength. He also has a tattoo of a samurai warrior on his left bicep, representing his warrior spirit on the cricket field. Kohli's tattoos are not only a form of self-expression but also hold personal significance to him.
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