Virat Kohli, one of the most celebrated cricketers in the world, has become synonymous with modern-day cricket excellence. With his aggressive playing style, impeccable technique, and consistent performances across formats, Kohli has etched his name in the annals of cricket history. Born on November 5, 1988, in Delhi, India, Kohli’s journey to stardom is nothing short of inspiring. As of October 13, 2025, he is 36 years old, but his impact on the game has already transcended beyond his years. Let’s take a deep dive into the life and career of this cricketing phenomenon.
Early Life and Background
Virat Kohli was born to Prem Kohli, a criminal lawyer, and Saroj Kohli, a homemaker. He was raised in a middle-class family in Delhi and showed an early interest in cricket. At the age of three, Kohli picked up a cricket bat, and his love for the sport grew with time. He joined the West Delhi Cricket Academy, where he was mentored by Rajkumar Sharma, who recognized his potential and nurtured his talent. Kohli’s family played a crucial role in shaping his career, providing unwavering support, especially during his formative years.
From an early age, Virat Kohli was known for his determination and passion for the sport. He was a regular in Delhi’s age-group cricket teams and quickly made his mark with his aggressive playing style, particularly in the shorter formats of the game. Kohli’s ability to chase down challenging targets and his knack for performing under pressure set him apart from his peers.
Virat Kohli’s Debut in International Cricket
Virat Kohli made his One Day International (ODI) debut for India on August 21, 2008, against Sri Lanka in Dambulla. His initial years in international cricket were filled with ups and downs. Kohli’s first major breakthrough came during the 2008 ICC Champions Trophy when he was given a chance in the playing XI due to the absence of regular players. His consistency in the ODI format caught the attention of selectors, and he quickly became a key member of the Indian team.
In 2010, Kohli made his Test debut against the West Indies, marking the beginning of his dominance in all formats of the game. While the initial years were challenging for him in the longest format, Kohli adapted and soon established himself as one of the best batsmen in the world. By 2012, Kohli was already a force to reckon with in international cricket, having scored numerous centuries and showcasing his adaptability to all formats.
Virat Kohli’s Age: A Glance at His Age and Career Milestones
Born on November 5, 1988, Virat Kohli is 36 years old as of October 13, 2025. Despite his relatively young age, Kohli has already achieved remarkable feats in the cricketing world, which most players can only dream of accomplishing in their entire careers.
Key Career Milestones:
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Fastest to 8,000 Runs in ODIs: Virat Kohli is the fastest player to reach 8,000 runs in ODIs, a testament to his consistency and ability to dominate the format.
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Captaincy: Kohli became India’s full-time captain in 2013 and led the team with distinction. His aggressive captaincy has seen India dominate across formats, especially in Test cricket.
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ICC Trophies: Under Kohli’s leadership, India won several prestigious trophies, including the 2018 Asia Cup and 2016 World T20 semi-finals. Though Kohli has not won an ICC World Cup as captain, his individual performances have often been pivotal in the team’s success.
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Over 70 International Centuries: Kohli has scored over 70 international centuries, placing him among the all-time greats of the game. His ability to convert starts into big scores has made him a key player for India in all formats.
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Top ICC Rankings: Kohli has held the number one position in the ICC ODI rankings multiple times, and his consistency across formats has been a major reason for his rise in the cricketing world.
Batting Style and Records
Virat Kohli’s batting style is a blend of classic technique and modern aggression. His aggressive yet calculated approach has made him a formidable batsman across all formats. Whether it’s ODIs, T20Is, or Test cricket, Kohli has been a match-winner for India.
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ODIs: Kohli has a reputation for chasing challenging targets, and his consistency in ODIs has been unmatched. He is often referred to as one of the greatest ODI batsmen of all time.
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Tests: Although Test cricket is known for its long formats and patience, Kohli’s ability to play long innings has made him a formidable force in the longest format. His 2018 tour of Australia, where he scored runs consistently, proved his ability to perform in challenging conditions.
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T20Is: Kohli’s ability to accelerate and finish games in T20Is has made him a key player for India in the shortest format. His T20I records, including the most runs in World T20s, highlight his dominance in this format as well.
Kohli’s Personal Life and Impact Beyond Cricket
Virat Kohli’s personal life has always been in the limelight, particularly his relationship with Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma. The couple tied the knot in December 2017, and they are one of India’s most beloved celebrity couples. Their relationship and shared moments on social media have captivated millions of fans globally.
Kohli’s impact extends beyond the cricket field. He is a prominent fitness advocate and has revolutionized the approach to fitness in Indian cricket. His commitment to physical fitness and diet has set new standards for players across the world. Kohli is also known for his charity work, especially through his foundation, which supports various causes including child health and education.
As a brand ambassador for numerous global and Indian brands, Kohli has established himself as a global icon. His influence extends beyond the boundaries of cricket, with his social media presence and endorsements adding to his stature as one of the highest-earning athletes in the world.
Challenges and Transition in Captaincy
Virat Kohli’s leadership has been characterized by aggressive captaincy, and while his captaincy has brought India immense success, there have been challenges along the way. Kohli decided to step down from the captaincy of the T20I team in 2021 and also later relinquished his Test captaincy in 2022 after India’s defeat in the South Africa Test series. His decision to step down was seen as a selfless act to allow for a smoother transition and focus on his batting.
Under the leadership of Rohit Sharma, India continued to remain a competitive force, and Kohli’s role shifted to a more player-centric one. This transition was crucial for the team as it allowed Kohli to focus on his performances, free from the pressures of leadership.
Virat Kohli’s Legacy and the Future
At 36 years old, Kohli is still a key player for India and is expected to play for several more years. His passion for the game, combined with his fitness, suggests that he could continue to perform at the highest level for a while longer. Kohli’s dedication to cricket, his records, and his consistency have already cemented his place as one of the greatest batsmen of all time.
Despite not having won a major ICC title as captain, Kohli’s individual achievements have surpassed many of the game’s legends. His legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations of cricketers, and his impact on the game will be remembered for years to come.
Conclusion
Virat Kohli, at 36 years old, continues to be one of the most influential figures in world cricket. From a young boy growing up in Delhi to becoming one of the game’s greatest players, his journey has been remarkable. His commitment to fitness, his dedication to the game, and his leadership qualities have made him a role model for aspiring cricketers worldwide. As Kohli enters the twilight years of his career, the world will be watching closely, eager to see what new milestones he will achieve before he calls time on his illustrious career.
The story of Virat Kohli is one of passion, perseverance, and excellence—an inspiring journey for any athlete. As he approaches 37 years in November 2025, his best years might still be ahead, as he continues to break records and lead India to cricketing glory.
