Virat Kohli, one of cricket’s all-time greats and former captain of the Indian cricket team, consistently opens the batting in all three formats. When he initially joined the Indian team, he was just an average batsman.
However, over the years, he underwent a remarkable transformation, becoming a highly accomplished and exceptional batsman who dominated international cricket in every format. In this article, we’ll explore some fascinating facts about Virat Kohli.
He’s notable for being the first batsman to show that you can excel in all cricket formats through dedication, hard work, and resilience. Virat Kohli, often called the “King of Cricket,” has a wealth of captivating facts about Virat Kohli that will pique your interest.
20 Virat Kohli Facts
Fact 1: On November 5, 1988, in Delhi, Virat Kohli was born into a Punjabi family to parents Prem and Saroj Kohli. He has a sibling, Vikas Kohli, who is involved in business, and a sister named Bhavna Kohli. Notably, his father, Prem Kohli, was a criminal lawyer.
Fact 2: Kohli began his cricket journey in 1998 at the West Delhi Cricket Academy, under the guidance of Rajkumar Sharma. Before making it to the Indian U-19 squad for the 2006 England tour, he actively played in youth tournaments representing Delhi.
Fact 3: His childhood coach at the West Delhi Cricket Academy, Ajeet Chaudhury, nicknamed him “Cheeku.”
Fact 4: In 2018, the former leader of the Indian cricket team switched to a vegetarian diet because of health reasons. Since making this change, he has been doing really well and enjoying this new way of living.
Fact 5: In the 2008 U-19 World Cup, Virat Kohli led the Indian team to victory and became the third-highest run-scorer with 235 runs in six matches.
Fact 6: Virat Kohli is known for his unwavering dedication to cricket. In a Rajni Trophy match against Karnataka, he played despite the loss of his father to a stroke. He scored an impressive 90 runs before paying his respects at his father’s funeral.
Fact 7: Virat Kohli made his international debut in a 2008 ODI match against Sri Lanka, stepping in as an opener due to injuries to Sachin and Sehwag. However, he scored only 12 runs in that match.
Fact 8: Kohli holds multiple ODI cricket records, including being the fastest to reach milestones like 8000, 9000, 10000, 11000, and 12000 runs.
Fact 9: In a bilateral series of 5 or more matches, Kohli holds the record for the highest run tally, amassing 558 runs in 6 matches.
Fact 10: The 2014 India tour of Australia was a challenging period for Kohli, where he scored just 134 runs in 5 matches. However, he bounced back impressively in the series against Australia on their home turf, accumulating 692 runs in 4 matches, including four centuries.
Fact 11: Virat Kohli is the only cricketer to maintain an average exceeding 50 in all formats of the game.
Fact 12: In recognition of his contributions to Indian cricket, Kohli received the Arjuna Award in 2013, the Padma Shri in 2017, and the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award in 2018.
Fact 13: In 2017, Kohli married Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma, and in 2021, they welcomed their daughter, Vamika.
Fact 14: Kohli wears the number 18 on his jersey.
Fact 15: Despite his commitment to fitness, Kohli enjoys indulging in “Chole Bhature” as an occasional treat, typically once a month.
Fact 16: Virat Kohli is the only cricketer in the history of the Indian Premier League (IPL) to remain with a single franchise since the tournament’s inception in 2008.
Fact 17: Virat Kohli owns the popular clothing brand Wrogn, along with interests in FC Goa and the Bengaluru Yodhas.
Fact 18: In 2008, Kohli captained the Under-19 cricket team to a World Cup victory, marking one of his earliest achievements on the international stage.
Fact 19: Kohli has more than 10 tattoos, each symbolizing his love for family, faith, and significant accomplishments.
Fact 20: Kohli’s unwavering commitment to cricket was evident when he played in a Ranji Trophy match for Delhi on the same day his father passed away, scoring an impressive 90 runs.
20 Virat Kohli Facts
Q.1. Why is Kohli so famous?
Ans. Virat Kohli is famous primarily due to his exceptional cricketing skills. He has consistently showcased remarkable talent as a batsman, earning numerous records and accolades in international cricket. His aggressive yet effective playing style, coupled with his leadership as a former captain of the Indian national team, has contributed significantly to his fame.
Q.2. Why is RCB so popular?
Ans. The Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) is popular in the Indian Premier League (IPL) due to various reasons. They have a massive fan following owing to their consistent presence in the league and their association with several high-profile players, including Virat Kohli.
Q.3. Why is Virat Kohli so loved?
Ans. Virat Kohli is loved by many due to his cricketing prowess, his commitment on the field, and his passionate attitude towards the sport. Off the field, his philanthropic work, strong work ethic, and charismatic personality have also endeared him to numerous fans.
Q.4. Is Virat Kohli close to his family?
Ans. Virat Kohli shares a close bond with his family. He often expresses his affection and appreciation for his parents, siblings, and wife, Anushka Sharma, publicly. He values their support and guidance in both personal and professional aspects of his life.
Q.5. Who is Virat Kohli’s ex?
Ans. Anushka Sharma, a prominent Bollywood actress, was in a relationship with Virat Kohli before their marriage. They tied the knot in December 2017, and Anushka Sharma is his spouse, not his ex.
