Introduction
Virat Kohli, born November 5, 1988, in Delhi, is widely regarded as one of the greatest batsmen in modern cricket. With over 20,000 international runs, multiple captaincy stints, and a reputation for chasing targets like no other, Kohli’s journey is as much about records as it is about relentless passion and precision timesofsports.com+1khelnow.com+1reddit.com.
Early Career
Kohli made his international debut in 2008 and quickly became known for his aggressive stroke play and consistency. His climb through the ranks was meteoric, leading India at every level by his mid‑20s.
International Milestones & Records
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First Indian to cross 50 ODI centuries, breaking Sachin Tendulkar’s record of 49 during the 2023 World Cup semi‑final populartimelines.com+3reddit.com+3timesofsports.com+3.
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Fastest Indian to reach 16,000 international runs in just 340 innings, surpassing Kumar Sangakkara reddit.com.
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Holds the highest-ever ICC batting rating (922) in Tests and top Indian batting ranks in ODIs timesofsports.com.
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The only player to win all four ICC trophies (U‑19 World Cup, ODI WC, T20 WC, Champions Trophy) timesofsports.com.
Captaincy Legacy
As captain, Kohli led India to the No. 1 Test ranking and secured historic series wins in Australia (2018‑19) and England. His leadership emphasized intensity, fitness, and discipline, transforming India’s cricket ethos khelnow.com+1theguardian.com+1.
IPL Glory at Last
Kohli’s loyalty to Royal Challengers Bengaluru paid off in June 2025 when he finally lifted the IPL trophy after 18 years, scoring 43 in the final and guiding the team to a six‑run win over Punjab Kings economictimes.indiatimes.com+1economictimes.indiatimes.com+1. He also became the highest run-scorer in IPL history en.wikipedia.org+1economictimes.indiatimes.com+1.
Retirement & Next Chapter
Kohli retired from T20Is after the 2024 World Cup and retired from Test cricket in May 2025 prior to India’s tour of England. His exit marks the end of an era and opens the door for new leadership in Indian cricket theguardian.com.
Legacy and Influence
His milestones include most double centuries by an Indian Test captain, over 20,000 international runs at an average above 50, and dominating chase masterclass episodes in ODIs and Tests timesofsports.com. Beyond statistics, Kohli transformed Indian cricket culture, setting standards in fitness and competitive rigor.