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Virat Kohli |
Early Life and Career
Virat Kohli’s journey into cricket began at a young age, showing a keen interest in the sport from his childhood. He played for the West Delhi Cricket Academy and quickly gained recognition for his talent. By the time he was 18, Kohli was representing Delhi in domestic cricket, and his performances in age-group tournaments further caught the attention of selectors. His aggressive batting, exceptional technique, and ability to chase down tough targets set him apart early on.
Kohli's breakthrough in international cricket came in 2008 when he was selected for the Indian national team for the Sri Lanka tour, following an injury to regular opener Sehwag. He made his One-Day International (ODI) debut in the same series, and despite a modest start, he began to showcase his potential in the coming months. His first major international breakthrough came in the 2008 ODI series against Sri Lanka, where he demonstrated the temperament and skill that would come to define his career.
Rise to Stardom
Kohli’s defining moment came in 2010 when he scored his first ODI century against Sri Lanka. This century proved to be the start of a prolific career, and he soon became a key player in India's top-order. His consistency in limited-overs cricket made him one of the most feared batsmen in the world. Kohli’s ability to chase targets became his trademark, and his performances in pressure situations, particularly in ODIs and T20Is, earned him a reputation as one of the best finishers in the game.
In 2013, Kohli cemented his place as a global cricketing star when he led India to victory in the Champions Trophy in England. This victory was a testament to his leadership and composure under pressure. By now, Kohli had become the captain of India’s limited-overs teams, after taking over from MS Dhoni in 2013. His captaincy and leadership skills were soon on display, and he led India to several remarkable series wins, including a historic 2018 Test series win in Australia.
Batting Prowess and Records
Kohli’s batting technique is often praised for its technical soundness and adaptability across all formats of the game. He is known for his elegant stroke play, particularly through the covers, and his ability to maintain control over his emotions. His hunger for runs is unmatched, and he is particularly known for his exceptional consistency in ODIs and Tests. Kohli has multiple centuries across formats and has shattered several long-standing records.
In ODIs, Kohli has amassed over 12,000 runs, with a batting average that is among the best in the world. He is the fastest player to reach 8,000, 9,000, 10,000, and 11,000 runs in ODIs. In addition to his remarkable records in ODI cricket, Kohli has been equally successful in Test matches. He has scored runs across continents, proving his ability to adapt to various conditions. He has held the number-one spot in ICC’s Test batting rankings, showcasing his excellence across formats.
One of Kohli's most notable records is his chase ability. He has consistently been India's go-to batsman in run-chases, and his success in this aspect of the game has earned him the moniker of the “run machine.” His ability to perform under pressure has made him one of the most reliable batsmen in modern cricket.
Captaincy and Leadership
Kohli’s leadership has been one of his defining features. Under his captaincy, India became one of the most formidable teams in world cricket, excelling in all formats. He led India to the top of the ICC Test rankings and has been credited with fostering a new culture of aggression and mental toughness within the Indian team. His leadership was also a key factor in India’s historic series win in Australia in 2018-2019.
Kohli's aggressive captaincy and commitment to a bold, attacking style of cricket have set him apart from many of his predecessors. However, his leadership was also marked by his insistence on fitness and discipline, as he set high standards for his teammates in both aspects.
Personal Life
Virat Kohli married Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma in December 2017, and the couple’s relationship has been widely covered in the media. Kohli is also known for his philanthropic work, supporting causes related to child welfare and education. His commitment to fitness and health is well-known, and he has often been an advocate for a balanced and disciplined lifestyle.
Legacy
Kohli’s legacy is already secured in the annals of cricketing history. He has established himself as a modern-day legend with his remarkable consistency, leadership, and batting brilliance. His rivalry with other top cricketers like Steve Smith and Joe Root has only added to the intrigue surrounding his career. Even after stepping down from captaincy in 2021, Kohli’s passion for the game remains undiminished, and his contributions to Indian cricket continue to inspire future generations.
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