Virat Kohli, the embodiment of modern cricket's dynamism and relentless pursuit of excellence, celebrates his 37th birthday today. Born on November 5, 1988, in Delhi, India, Kohli's journey from a promising youngster to a global icon has been nothing short of inspirational. Even as he enters his late thirties, Kohli's hunger for the game remains undiminished, suggesting that the architect of modern cricket isn't done yet.
Kohli's career is a tapestry woven with numerous records and milestones. He holds the record for the most ODI centuries, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar's long-standing record. His hunger for runs is evident in his remarkable stats: in 305 ODI matches, he has scored 14,255 runs at an average of 58, including 51 centuries. In Test cricket, he has scored 9,230 runs in 123 matches, with 30 centuries. Although he retired from T20Is in 2024, he finished his T20I career with 4,188 runs in 125 matches. He also holds the record for being the highest run-scorer in T20 World Cup history.
Beyond the numbers, Kohli's impact extends to his leadership. He led India in 68 Test matches, winning 40, making him India's most successful Test captain. Under his captaincy, India held the ICC World Test Championship Mace between 2016 and 2020. He also captained India to victory in the 2011 World Cup, 2013 ICC Champions Trophy, 2016 Asia Cup, 2024 T20 World Cup and 2025 Champions Trophy.
Kohli's influence transcends the field. He has endorsements with over 30 major brands, including MRF, Puma, Audi and Pepsi. He also co-owns the lifestyle brand One8 with Puma, and has invested in Chisel Fitness gyms across India.
In the recent IPL 2025, Kohli scored 657 runs in 15 innings and his team Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) won their maiden IPL title. Kohli has expressed his desire to continue playing for RCB. A conversation with Swastik Chikara revealed that Kohli plans to prolong his IPL career as long as he is fit enough and that he would not play as an impact player.
Looking ahead, Kohli is reportedly determined to play in the 2027 ODI World Cup. Despite speculation about retirement, Kohli's commitment to training and his passion for the game suggest he has more to offer. After retiring from Test cricket, Kohli shared that he looks forward to traveling extensively. There have also been rumors about Kohli and his wife, Anushka, potentially relocating to London.
Virat Kohli's journey is a testament to his dedication, skill, and leadership. As he turns 37, he remains a force to be reckoned with, inspiring a new generation of cricketers and fans alike. Whether it's on the field or off it, Kohli continues to redefine what it means to be a modern-day icon.
