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Virat Kohli is one of the most famous cricketers in the world. He is known for his amazing batting, strong mindset, and love for the game. Over the years, he has broken many records and become a big name in Indian and world cricket. But there’s a lot more to know about him than just runs and matches. In this article, we’ll share 15 amazing facts about Virat Kohli that you might not have heard before. Let’s get started.
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Interesting facts about Virat Kohli
In this article, we dive into 15 amazing facts about Virat Kohli that reveal the depth of his talent, dedication, and unique milestones—even the most die-hard fans might be surprised!
1. The Only IPL Player Never Auctioned
Virat Kohli holds a unique distinction in the Indian Premier League (IPL). He is the only player who has never been part of the league’s auction. Since the inception of the IPL in 2008, he has remained loyal to the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), who picked him up from the U-19 draft. Despite changing captains, coaches, and players over the years, Kohli’s place in the team has remained constant.
2. Took a Wicket Off a Zeroth Delivery
In a rare and almost unheard-of cricketing moment, Virat Kohli took a wicket in a T20 International off a delivery that didn’t even count—an illegal “zeroth” ball (no-ball). This happened against England in 2011. While bowling in an unfamiliar role, his overstepped delivery still led to a wicket, making this an odd but amusing statistic in his name.
3. Century on Debut Against Bangladesh
Virat Kohli is the only Indian cricketer to score a century in his debut One-Day International match against Bangladesh. This match took place in 2008, and his composed performance immediately signaled that a star was in the making.
4. Youngest ODI Cricketer of the Year
Kohli became the youngest cricketer to win the ICC ODI Cricketer of the Year award. He earned this recognition in 2012 for his spectacular performance in 2011, where he scored 1,381 runs in 34 ODIs. His consistency and hunger for big runs set him apart even in his early years.
5. Most Double Centuries as Test Captain
In December 2017, Kohli broke the record for the most double centuries scored by a Test captain. He scored six double hundreds, surpassing Brian Lara’s record. His ability to convert centuries into big scores showcased his mental toughness and stamina.
6. 500+ Runs in a Bilateral ODI Series
Virat Kohli is the only Indian batsman to have scored over 500 runs in a bilateral ODI series. He achieved this feat against South Africa in 2018, where he amassed 558 runs in just six matches, including three centuries. His form was unstoppable, and the Proteas had no answers.
7. Turned Vegetarian After a Spine Injury
During a Test match against South Africa in 2018, Kohli suffered from a cervical spine issue. Doctors advised him to improve his diet, which led him to switch to vegetarianism. Despite doubts from critics, Kohli claimed that this lifestyle change improved his fitness, digestion, and overall performance on the field.
8. Played Through Father’s Death
In December 2006, Kohli was playing a Ranji Trophy match for Delhi against Karnataka at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. Tragically, his father passed away overnight. Instead of leaving the match, the 18-year-old Virat returned to the field the next morning and scored 90 runs, showcasing his immense mental strength and dedication to cricket.
9. Fastest Indian to 10 ODI Centuries
Virat Kohli became the first Indian and the second player in the world to reach 10 One-Day International centuries in record time. His ability to maintain high performance in ODIs made him a consistent match-winner for India early in his career.
10. Only Player to Hit Three Consecutive Test Centuries
Kohli made history by becoming the first player in the world to score three back-to-back centuries in Test matches. This rare feat placed him in a league of his own and proved that his dominance wasn’t limited to just the shorter formats.
11. Record-Breaking 973 Runs in a Single IPL Season
In the 2016 Indian Premier League, Virat Kohli delivered one of the most legendary batting performances in T20 history. He scored a staggering 973 runs in just 16 matches, the most runs ever in a single IPL season. His run included 4 centuries—another IPL record in a single edition. No player has come close to this incredible feat since.
12. Fastest to 8,000–12,000 Runs in ODIs
Virat Kohli holds the record for being the fastest batsman to reach 8,000, 9,000, 10,000, 11,000, and 12,000 runs in One-Day Internationals. He achieved each of these milestones in fewer innings than any other cricketer in history. His ability to maintain consistency and score heavily against all teams makes him one of the greatest ODI players ever.
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13. ICC Cricketer of the Decade (2010–2019)
In 2020, the International Cricket Council (ICC) named Kohli the Cricketer of the Decade, honoring his dominance across all formats between 2010 and 2019. During this period, he scored over 20,000 international runs, captained India in all formats, and redefined modern batting with his aggression, discipline, and technique.
14. King of Chases: Most ODI Centuries in Chasing
Known as the “Chase Master”, Virat Kohli has scored the most centuries in run-chases in ODI cricket. His calm presence and unmatched ability to pace an innings under pressure have earned him this title. He often finishes games with unbeaten hundreds, making him a nightmare for opposition bowlers when India is chasing a target.
15. First Indian Cricketer to Hit 100 Million Followers on Instagram
Off the field, Kohli is a global icon. He became the first Indian cricketer and one of the few athletes in the world to cross 100 million followers on Instagram. His massive fan following is a reflection of his appeal beyond cricket—a blend of sportsmanship, fitness, fashion, and personal authenticity.
FAQs
Virat Kohli goes by the nickname “run machine” due to his exceptional consistency and prolific run-scoring ability across all formats of cricket. He has broken numerous records and holds the record for the fastest century by an Indian cricketer in ODIs.
One of Virat Kohli’s most notable achievements is being the fastest player to score 8,000, 9,000, 10,000, 11,000, and 12,000 runs in ODI cricket. His ability to score runs consistently at a rapid pace has set him apart as one of the greatest batsmen of all time.
Off the field, Virat Kohli has been a significant influencer and advocate for fitness and disciplined lifestyles among his teammates and fans. His dedication to fitness has set new standards for cricket players in India, inspiring many young cricketers to prioritize physical conditioning alongside skill development.
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