
Virat Kohli, born on November 5, 1988, in Delhi, is one of the most celebrated cricket legends in India.
leading the Under-19 team to victory in the 2008 Cricket World Cup to becoming one of the best batsmen and captains in international cricket, Kohli’s journey is a testament to his talent, determination, and passion for the sport.
Key Takeaways
- Early Success: Led India to victory in the 2008 U-19 Cricket World Cup.
- International Breakthrough: First ODI century against Sri Lanka in 2009.
- Defining Moment: 133* against Sri Lanka in 2012 Commonwealth Bank series.
- Leadership: Captained India to historic victories and maintained top ICC rankings.
- IPL Stardom: Integral player and captain for Royal Challengers Bangalore.
Early Career and U-19 Success
Kohli first gained attention as a young, stylish, and spirited teenager with a fierce love for cricket. His big break came in 2008 when, as captain.
He led India to victory in the Under-19 Cricket World Cup in Kuala Lumpur. This triumph was a turning point in his career, propelling him to the national stage.
Related articles: BCCI Announces Prize Money for Players in All Junior and Women&Cricket Competitions
Entering the Indian Team

Image credit: National Sports Council, India
In August 2008, Kohli was selected for the senior Indian cricket team’s tour to Sri Lanka. With the regular senior openers out due to injuries or poor form, Kohli seized the opportunity.
Although he had to wait behind greats like Sachin Tendulkar and Virender Sehwag, Kohli’s consistent performances in domestic cricket and the 2009 Emerging Players Tournament in Australia solidified his reputation as a rising star.
Rise to Prominence
Kohli’s first ODI century came against Sri Lanka in December 2009, marking the beginning of a stellar international career.
He quickly established himself as a key player, known for performing under pressure. His crucial role in the 2011 World Cup final alongside Gautam Gambhir further cemented his place in the team.
Defining Innings
One of the most significant innings in Kohli’s career came during the 2012 Commonwealth Bank series. Facing a challenging target of 321 against Sri Lanka in Hobart, Kohli played an extraordinary knock of 133* off just 86 balls, earning him the title of the ‘King of the Run Chase.’
Technical Brilliance and Leadership
Kohli’s batting technique is a blend of aggression and precision, making him a formidable opponent for any bowler. His leadership style, characterized by aggression and a never-say-die attitude, resonated with the team.
In December 2014, Kohli was handed the responsibility of leading the Indian test team, a role in which he thrived. Under his captaincy, India achieved many memorable victories, including a historic series win in Australia in 2018-19.
India also maintained the No. 1 position in the ICC Test rankings for five successive years (2016-2021) during his tenure.
Milestones and IPL Stardom
Virat Kohli’s personal life has often made headlines, especially after his marriage to Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma in December 2017.
On the cricketing front, Kohli has been a crucial player for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in the Indian Premier League
(IPL) since its inception in 2008.
As captain, he led RCB to the final in 2016, setting a record with 973 runs in that season.
Although he has yet to win an IPL title, Kohli’s loyalty to RCB remains unwavering.
The Transformation of Virat Kohli
Virat Kohli’s transformation from an angry young man to one of the best batsmen in the world is a story of passion, commitment, and an insatiable desire to win.
He has set numerous records throughout his career, and his journey continues to inspire cricket fans worldwide.
The ‘better part of his story is yet to be written,’ and with each match, Kohli adds another chapter to his remarkable career, leaving an indelible mark on the cricketing world.
Want To Get Updated?
Keep up with the latest updates on sports, like Cricket, Football, Table Tennis, Shooting, Squash, Lawn Tennis, Karate, Taekwondo, and Martial Arts.
IndianSportsBuzz is your go-to sports news portal, bringing you real-time and analysis of all the sports you love.
References: www.hindustantimes.com, www.britannica.com
