50 Facts About Virat Kohli

Early Life and Beginnings

Virat Kohli's journey from a young boy in Delhi to a cricketing legend is nothing short of inspiring. Let's dive into his early life and the initial steps he took in his cricketing career.

1. Virat Kohli was born on November 5, 1988, in Delhi, India.
2. He made his debut in cricket at the age of 18 in the Indian Premier League (IPL) for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).
3. Kohli captained the Indian Under-19 team to victory in the 2008 Under-19 World Cup, which marked the beginning of his international career.

Fitness and Training

Kohli is known for his exceptional fitness and has revolutionized the fitness culture in Indian cricket. His dedication to training is unparalleled.

4. Kohli is credited with changing the fitness culture in Indian cricket, introducing endurance tests as a criterion for selection.
5. In 2018, Kohli faced a cervical spine issue, which led him to adopt a vegetarian diet.
6. Kohli is known for his exceptional fitness and strength, which he maintains through rigorous training and a balanced diet.

Captaincy and Leadership

Kohli's leadership skills have been instrumental in shaping the Indian cricket team. His captaincy has led to numerous victories and records.

7. He has been the captain of the Indian cricket team in all formats—Test, ODI, and T20I—since 2017.
8. As captain, Kohli led India to the final of the 2017 Champions Trophy and the semi-final of the 2019 World Cup.
9. He led India to victory in the 2018/19 Test series against Australia, establishing India's virtual invincibility at home.
10. Under Kohli’s captaincy, India has become a strong touring side across formats, transforming their Test cricket fortunes.

Records and Achievements

Kohli's records and achievements in cricket are a testament to his skill and consistency. He has set numerous records across all formats of the game.

11. Kohli holds the record for the most ODI centuries with 50 to his name, and he is the first batter to score 50 hundreds in one-day internationals.
12. He is the quickest to reach 8,000 to 12,000 runs in ODIs, a testament to his consistent performance over the years.
13. Kohli is the only Indian to score a century on his ODI debut against Bangladesh.
14. In Test cricket, Kohli has played 121 matches, scoring 9,166 runs at an average of 47.49 with 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries.
15. In T20 Internationals, Kohli has played 125 matches, scoring 4,188 runs at an average of 48.69 with a strike rate of 137.04 and one century and 38 half-centuries.

Indian Premier League (IPL) Career

Kohli's IPL career has been nothing short of spectacular. He has been a consistent performer and holds several records in the league.

16. Kohli has played all seasons for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the IPL and is the highest run-scorer in the league with over 8,000 runs.
17. He holds the record for most IPL centuries (8) and most runs in a season (973 runs in 2016).
18. Kohli has won the Orange Cap twice, in 2016 and 2024, for scoring the most runs in the IPL.
19. He has formed the most prolific partnerships in the IPL with AB de Villiers (3,123 runs) and Chris Gayle (2,787 runs).
20. Kohli has never been auctioned in the IPL, being retained by Royal Challengers Bangalore since its inception.

Memorable Knocks

Kohli has played some unforgettable innings that have left a lasting impact on cricket fans worldwide. Here are some of his top performances.

21. 133* runs off 86 deliveries against Pakistan in 2012.
22. 149 runs off 225 deliveries against Australia in 2016.
23. 82* runs off 53 balls against Pakistan in the T20 World Cup 2022.
24. 82* runs off 51 balls against Australia in the T20 World Cup 2016.
25. 243 runs off 224 deliveries against Australia in the Test series 2018/19.

Consistency and Milestones

Kohli's consistency and ability to reach milestones quickly have set him apart from his peers. His statistics speak volumes about his prowess.

26. Kohli’s strike rate in ODIs is 93.54, and his average is 58.18, making him one of the most consistent batsmen in the format.
27. Barring one in Bangladesh, Kohli has scored Test hundreds in and against every country he has played.
28. Kohli has played a total of 477 international matches, amassing an incredible 24,350 runs.
29. His highest score in Tests is 254 not out, which he achieved against the West Indies in 2019.
30. His highest score in ODIs is 183, which he achieved against South Africa in 2018.

Bowling and All-Round Skills

While primarily known for his batting, Kohli has also contributed with the ball on several occasions. His all-round skills add another dimension to his game.

31. Kohli has taken a total of 13 wickets in international cricket, with no five-wicket hauls.
32. In ODIs, Kohli has bowled a total of 662 balls, taking five wickets at an average of 136.00.
33. His bowling economy in ODIs is 6.16 runs per over, with no four-wicket hauls.
34. In T20Is, Kohli has bowled 152 balls, taking four wickets at an average of 51.00.
35. His bowling economy in T20Is is 8.05 runs per over, with no four-wicket hauls.

Legacy and Impact

Kohli's impact on cricket extends beyond his records and achievements. He has inspired a generation of cricketers and fans alike with his dedication and passion for the sport.

36. Kohli is often referred to as “the run-machine” and is credited with inventing “class cricket” in Indian cricketing history.
37. Many youngsters are inspired by Kohli’s fitness and style, making him a role model for aspiring cricketers.
38. Kohli’s partnerships with AB de Villiers and Chris Gayle are among the most prolific in IPL history.
39. Kohli has played 15 matches in the Champions League for RCB, scoring 95 runs at an average of 10.00.
40. His legacy in cricket extends beyond his on-field achievements. He has inspired a generation of cricketers and fans alike with his dedication, passion, and commitment to the sport.

Format-Wise Records

Kohli's records across different formats of the game highlight his versatility and adaptability. Here are some of his format-wise records.

41. Tests: 30 centuries, 31 half-centuries.
42. ODIs: 50 centuries, 72 half-centuries.
43. T20Is: 1 century, 38 half-centuries.
44. FC: 37 centuries, 39 half-centuries.
45. Kohli has scored the most runs in a season with 973 runs in 2016.

Personal Life and Inspirations

Kohli's personal life and inspirations have played a significant role in shaping his career. His journey is a testament to his hard work and determination.

46. Kohli’s strike rate in ODIs is 93.54, and his average is 58.18, making him one of the most consistent batsmen in the format.
47. Kohli has played a total of 477 international matches, amassing an incredible 24,350 runs.
48. His highest score in Tests is 254 not out, which he achieved against the West Indies in 2019.
49. His highest score in ODIs is 183, which he achieved against South Africa in 2018.
50. Kohli’s legacy in cricket extends beyond his on-field achievements. He has inspired a generation of cricketers and fans alike with his dedication, passion, and commitment to the sport.

Kohli's Lasting Legacy

Virat Kohli's journey from a young cricketer to a global icon is nothing short of inspiring. His dedication, hard work, and exceptional talent have set new benchmarks in cricket. With records like the most ODI centuries, fastest to multiple milestones, and leading India to significant victories, Kohli's impact on the sport is undeniable. Beyond his stats, he's revolutionized fitness culture in Indian cricket, inspiring countless youngsters. His partnerships, especially in the IPL, and his leadership roles have further cemented his legacy. Kohli's story is a testament to what passion and perseverance can achieve. As he continues to play, fans eagerly await more milestones and memorable moments. Virat Kohli isn't just a cricketer; he's a legend whose influence will be felt for generations. His legacy in cricket is a blend of remarkable achievements, inspiring leadership, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.