Who Is Virat Kohli? Biography of India’s Cricket Superstar

Virat Kohli, the name synonymous with passion, consistency, and aggression on the cricket field, has etched his legacy as one of the greatest modern-day cricketers. From a young boy in Delhi with a dream to becoming the face of Indian cricket, Kohli’s journey is inspirational and iconic. This biography covers everything from his early life to his record-breaking cricket career, personal life, fitness regime, and more.

Early Life & Family Background

Born on November 5, 1988, in Delhi, Virat Kohli grew up in Uttam Nagar and started playing cricket at a young age. His father, Prem Kohli, was a criminal lawyer, while his mother, Saroj Kohli, is a homemaker. Kohli was enrolled at the West Delhi Cricket Academy at just nine years old, and his talent was evident from the beginning.

Quick Facts:

• Full Name: Virat Prem Kohli
• Date of Birth: 5 November 1988
• Birthplace: Delhi, India
• Height: 5’9” (175 cm)
• Nickname: Chiku

Domestic and U-19 Cricket Journey

Kohli’s breakthrough came when he captained India to victory in the 2008 U-19 Cricket World Cup in Malaysia. His performances attracted national attention, paving the way for his inclusion in the Indian senior team. In the same year, he made his ODI debut against Sri Lanka.

International Cricket Career

ODI Debut:

• Date: August 18, 2008 vs Sri Lanka

Test Debut:

• Date: June 20, 2011 vs West Indies

T20I Debut:

• Date: June 12, 2010 vs Zimbabwe

Virat Kohli Stats (as of July 30, 2025):

• Tests: 113 matches | 8,848 runs | Avg: 49.7
• ODIs: 287 matches | 13,125 runs | Avg: 57.3
• T20Is: 124 matches | 4,008 runs | Avg: 52.7

Virat Kohli is known for his unmatched consistency across all formats. He became the fastest to 8,000, 9,000, 10,000 and 11,000 ODI runs, breaking several long-standing records.

Captaincy & Leadership

Kohli took over as the Test captain in 2014 and later became the all-format captain of India in 2017. Under his leadership:

• India held the No.1 Test ranking for five years.
• Reached the ICC Champions Trophy Final (2017).
• Reached the WTC Final (2021).

Though he stepped down from captaincy in 2022, Kohli remains a crucial player and a mentor to young talents.

Check out: Most Iconic Cricket Captains of All Time

IPL Journey

Kohli has been a one-team man in the Indian Premier League (IPL), playing for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) since 2008.

• Most runs in IPL history: 7,500+ runs (as of 2025)
• Captain (2013–2021)

While RCB hasn’t won the IPL under his captaincy, Kohli has been the heart of the franchise. His loyalty and passion for the team have won millions of fans.

Related Read: Who is the Baap of IPL?

Virat Kohli Wife & Personal Life

Virat Kohli married Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma on December 11, 2017, in Italy. The couple is known for their privacy and elegance and welcomed their daughter Vamika in January 2021. Their family life is often praised for how they balance fame and personal values.

Popular Read: Top 10 Most Loved Players in Cricket History

Net Worth & Brand Endorsements

As of 2025, Virat Kohli’s net worth is estimated at INR 1,050 crore+ (~$125 million). He owns multiple properties, luxurious cars, and co-owns businesses such as:

• Wrogn (fashion brand)
• One8 (fitness wear in collaboration with Puma)
• Restaurants and fitness chains across India

He has endorsement deals with Puma, Audi, MRF, Myntra, and more.

Virat Kohli’s Fitness & Diet

Kohli’s transformation from a chubby teenager to one of the fittest cricketers in the world is legendary. He follows:

• High-protein diet
• No sugar or junk food
• Strict workout routines

His fitness revolution influenced Indian cricket culture. Today, fitness is considered non-negotiable, thanks largely to Kohli’s influence.

Records & Achievements

• Most ODI centuries after Sachin Tendulkar
• Only player with 50+ average in all three formats
• Fastest to 8,000, 9,000, 10,000, 11,000 ODI runs
• ICC Cricketer of the Year – multiple times
• Wisden Leading Cricketer in the World – multiple years

Virat Kohli in 2025

At 36, Kohli continues to inspire millions. Though he’s no longer captain, he remains India’s backbone in ICC events and a global brand icon.

He’s expected to feature in the 2025 Champions Trophy, and there’s talk about his potential farewell series in 2026.

FAQs About Virat Kohli

Final Thoughts

Virat Kohli is not just a cricketer; he’s an emotion for billions. From U-19 glory to international records, from fitness inspiration to brand icon — his impact goes far beyond cricket. As he nears the twilight of his career, his legacy is already sealed as one of India’s greatest ever.