Virat Kohli Biography: From Delhi Boy to Cricket Legend

Virat Kohli Biography – Explore Virat Kohli’s inspiring journey from Delhi’s streets to cricket greatness. Discover his records, Test retirement, net worth, and life with Anushka Sharma.

Virat Kohli Biography: From Delhi Boy to Cricket Legend

Virat Kohli stands as one of the greatest cricketers of all time, a modern-day icon whose name is synonymous with excellence, passion, and records. Born in Delhi, India, this right-handed batting maestro has redefined what it means to be a world-class cricketer in the 21st century.

As the former captain of the Indian cricket team, Kohli led his nation with unprecedented aggression and determination, while his batting prowess has earned him comparisons to the legendary Sachin Tendulkar.

Widely regarded as one of the greatest limited overs batters in cricket history, Kohli holds the record for scoring the most centuries in One Day International cricket and stands second in the list of most international centuries scored overall.

He is also the highest run-scorer in the Indian Premier League, cementing his status across all formats of the game. His fitness, commitment, and chase-master abilities have made him a role model for aspiring cricketers worldwide.

In May 2025, Kohli announced his retirement from Test cricket after 14 illustrious years and 123 Tests, bringing the curtain down on one chapter of an extraordinary career while continuing to play limited-overs cricket and the IPL.

Beyond the cricket field, Kohli is a successful entrepreneur, brand ambassador for numerous global companies, and a devoted family man married to Bollywood superstar Anushka Sharma. His journey from the streets of Delhi to becoming one of the world’s most recognized athletes is a story of talent, perseverance, and unwavering dedication to excellence.

Early Life & Education: A Middle-Class Boy With Big Dreams

Virat Kohli was born on November 5, 1988, in Delhi, India, into a middle-class Punjabi family. His father, Prem Kohli, was a criminal lawyer, while his mother, Saroj Kohli, is a housewife. Virat has an elder brother, Vikas, and an elder sister, Bhavna. The family lived in Uttam Nagar, a modest neighborhood in West Delhi, where young Virat spent his formative years surrounded by the values of hard work, discipline, and education.

From an extraordinarily young age, Virat exhibited an innate affinity for cricket. As a three-year-old, he would pick up a bat and request his father to bowl to him, displaying the passion that would define his life. His family recognized his burgeoning interest and talent, and neighbors suggested professional coaching to nurture his obvious gift for the sport.

Virat’s early education took place at Vishal Bharti Public School in Delhi, where he balanced academics with his growing obsession with cricket. Despite being a student, his heart was always on the cricket field. In 1998, when Virat was just nine years old, the West Delhi Cricket Academy was established, and his father enrolled him there to receive proper training. This decision would prove to be life-changing.

At the West Delhi Cricket Academy, Virat came under the guidance of coach Rajkumar Sharma, who would play a pivotal role in shaping his early cricketing career. Sharma instilled discipline, honed Kohli’s natural talent, and helped develop the technical foundation that would later make him one of the world’s best batsmen.

The young Virat showed remarkable dedication, often training for hours after school and displaying a competitive fire that set him apart from his peers.

The training was rigorous. Virat would wake up at 5 AM, travel across Delhi for practice, return home exhausted, complete his homework, and then do it all over again the next day. His commitment was absolute, even as a child. He also played matches at the Sumit Dogra Academy, gaining valuable match experience and learning to perform under pressure.

A significant and tragic turning point in Virat’s young life came in December 2006. His father, Prem Kohli, had been bed-ridden for a month and succumbed to a cerebral attack on December 18, 2006, when Virat was just 18 years old. The loss was devastating for the teenager.

However, in a display of extraordinary mental strength and dedication that would come to define his career, Virat returned to bat in a Ranji Trophy match the very next day after spending the night at his father’s bedside.

He scored 90 runs, playing through his grief to help his team. This moment revealed the steel within the young cricketer and his unwavering commitment to cricket, which his father had nurtured from childhood.

This tragedy forced Virat to mature quickly and take greater responsibility for his family. The financial pressure and emotional burden could have derailed his cricket career, but instead, it seemed to fuel his determination to succeed, to honor his father’s memory and make his family proud.

Career Journey: Rising Through the Ranks to Global Stardom

Virat Kohli’s cricket career trajectory is a testament to consistent excellence, relentless improvement, and an insatiable hunger for runs. His journey from Delhi’s domestic cricket to becoming one of the world’s most celebrated athletes is marked by milestone after milestone.

Virat began making his mark in youth cricket early. In 2002, he played for the Delhi Under-15 team. The following year, he was the highest run scorer in the 2003-04 Vijay Merchant Trophy while playing for the Delhi Under-17 team, announcing his arrival as a prodigious talent. His performances at youth levels caught the attention of selectors and cricket administrators nationwide.

His first major breakthrough came in 2008 when he captained the India Under-19 team to victory in the ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup held in Malaysia. Virat’s leadership and batting were instrumental in India’s triumph, and he emerged as one of the tournament’s standout performers. This success catapulted him into national attention and fast-tracked his entry into senior cricket.

Later in 2008, Virat made his debut for the senior Indian cricket team in an ODI against Sri Lanka. Though his early international performances were modest, his potential was evident. He made his Test debut in 2011 against the West Indies, and gradually established himself as a key member of the Indian batting lineup across all formats.

The years between 2012 and 2018 marked Virat’s transformation from a promising youngster to a world-class batsman. His technique, fitness, and mental approach to batting reached extraordinary levels. He became known for his ability to chase down targets in ODIs, earning the nickname “Chase Master.” His cover drives, on-drives, and flicks became signature shots that bowlers worldwide feared.

In 2013, Virat was appointed vice-captain of the Indian ODI team, and when MS Dhoni stepped down from Test captaincy in 2014, Virat took over as Test captain. In 2017, he became the captain across all formats, leading India with aggressive, attacking cricket that reflected his own personality on the field.

Under Kohli’s captaincy, India achieved remarkable success. He led India to 68 Test matches as captain, winning 40 of them, giving him one of the best win percentages among Indian Test captains. His leadership was characterized by a focus on fitness, aggressive field placements, and backing his fast bowlers, which transformed India into a formidable team even in overseas conditions.

India achieved historic Test series victories in Australia and dominated home conditions, becoming the number one Test team in the world during his tenure.

In One Day Internationals, Kohli’s batting reached unprecedented heights. He became the fastest player to score 8,000, 9,000, 10,000, 11,000, 12,000, and 13,000 runs in ODI cricket, consistently breaking records.

He scored centuries with remarkable regularity, often in winning causes, and his ability to pace an innings and finish games made him arguably the greatest ODI batsman of his generation. He became the fastest to reach 14,000 ODI runs in just 287 innings, showcasing his consistency and class.

In T20 cricket, Kohli adapted his game brilliantly, becoming one of the format’s most successful batsmen. He holds multiple T20I records and has been instrumental in India’s performances in T20 World Cups and bilateral series.

The Indian Premier League became another stage for Kohli’s excellence. Playing for Royal Challengers Bangalore since the IPL’s inception in 2008, Kohli has been the franchise’s most loyal and successful player. As of IPL 2025, he has scored 8,661 runs, the most by any player in IPL history.

He has hit 8 centuries and 63 fifties, both IPL records, and has played 267 matches for RCB, the most for any single franchise. In the 2016 IPL season, Kohli achieved an extraordinary feat by scoring 973 runs, including four centuries, a record that still stands as the highest individual score in a single IPL season.

Despite his individual brilliance, the IPL title has eluded both Kohli and RCB, something that has frustrated his fans and added a human dimension to his otherwise stellar career. The closest they came was finishing as runners-up three times.

Throughout his career, Kohli became known for his exceptional fitness. He transformed his diet, lifestyle, and training regimen, becoming one of the fittest cricketers in the world. His dedication to fitness inspired a generation of Indian cricketers to prioritize physical conditioning, changing the culture of Indian cricket.

However, the captaincy came with immense pressure. In 2021, Kohli stepped down as T20I captain after the T20 World Cup, and subsequently was removed as ODI captain by the BCCI, decisions that sparked controversy.

He continued as Test captain until early 2022 when he resigned, citing workload and mental space. The captaincy chapter closed, but his batting career continued.

In May 2025, Virat Kohli announced his retirement from Test cricket after 123 matches spanning 14 years. In Tests, he scored 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85, including 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries.

His Test career included memorable innings across the world, from his maiden Test century in Adelaide to his dominant performances against Australia, England, and South Africa. His retirement from Tests marked the end of an era but also reflected his decision to focus on limited-overs cricket and the IPL, where he continues to excel.

Major Achievements: A Career Defined by Records and Excellence

Virat Kohli’s list of achievements reads like a cricket almanac, filled with records, milestones, and honors that cement his place among the all-time greats.

Most ODI Centuries: Kohli holds the record for the most centuries in ODI cricket with 50 hundreds, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar’s previous record of 49. This achievement underscores his dominance in the 50-over format and his ability to convert good starts into big scores consistently.

Second Most International Centuries: With 80 international centuries across all formats, Kohli stands second only to Sachin Tendulkar’s 100 centuries in the all-time list. This places him among an elite group of batsmen in cricket history.

Fastest to Multiple ODI Run Milestones: Kohli is the fastest player to reach 8,000, 9,000, 10,000, 11,000, 12,000, 13,000, and 14,000 runs in ODI cricket, demonstrating his remarkable consistency and longevity at the highest level.

Highest IPL Run-Scorer: With 8,661 runs as of IPL 2025, Kohli is the all-time leading run-scorer in the Indian Premier League. He also holds records for most centuries and most fifties in IPL history.

ICC Awards: Kohli has won the prestigious Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy for ICC Cricketer of the Year in 2017 and 2018. He has also won the ICC ODI Player of the Year award multiple times, recognizing his dominance in limited-overs cricket.

Test Captaincy Success: As Test captain, Kohli led India in 68 matches, winning 40, which gave him one of the best win percentages among Indian Test captains. Under his leadership, India achieved historic overseas victories and consistently ranked as one of the top Test nations.

Under-19 World Cup Victory: Leading India to victory in the 2008 ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup was Kohli’s first major achievement on the international stage and set the foundation for his future success.

Double Centuries as Captain: Kohli holds the record for the most double hundreds by a Test cricket captain, showcasing his ability to play big innings and dominate bowling attacks.

973 Runs in Single IPL Season: In the 2016 IPL, Kohli scored a staggering 973 runs, including four centuries, a record that still stands as the most runs scored by any player in a single IPL season.

Padma Shri: In 2017, Kohli was awarded the Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian award, recognizing his contributions to Indian cricket.

Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna: In 2018, Kohli received India’s highest sporting honor, the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award, for his outstanding achievements in cricket.

Forbes Recognition: Kohli has consistently featured in Forbes’ lists of highest-paid athletes, reflecting both his cricketing success and his massive commercial appeal. He is one of the most marketable athletes globally.

Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People: In 2018, Kohli was named in Time Magazine’s list of the 100 Most Influential People in the World, recognizing his impact beyond cricket.

Brand Value: Kohli’s brand value is among the highest of any athlete in the world, with endorsements spanning global brands like Puma, Audi, MRF, and many others.

Personal Life: Love, Family, and Life Beyond Cricket

Beyond the cricket field, Virat Kohli’s personal life has been the subject of immense public interest, particularly his relationship with Bollywood superstar Anushka Sharma, which has become one of India’s most celebrated celebrity marriages.

Virat and Anushka first met in 2013 during the shooting of a commercial for a shampoo brand. The chemistry between the cricketer and the actress was immediate, and they began dating shortly after. Their relationship became public, and the couple was frequently spotted together at various events, restaurants, and airports, always drawing massive media attention.

In December 2017, Virat and Anushka surprised everyone by announcing their marriage through social media. The couple had a private, intimate wedding ceremony in Tuscany, Italy, attended only by close family and friends.

The wedding photos, when shared on social media, broke the internet, garnering millions of likes and comments within hours. The simplicity and elegance of their wedding, combined with the evident love between them, endeared them to fans across the country.

Following the Italian wedding, the couple hosted receptions in Delhi and Mumbai, which were attended by cricket personalities, Bollywood celebrities, politicians, and business tycoons. The receptions were grand affairs that celebrated the union of cricket and cinema royalty.

Virat and Anushka’s relationship has been characterized by mutual respect, support, and understanding. Anushka has been a constant presence at cricket matches, cheering for Virat and the Indian team, while Virat has publicly supported Anushka’s film career and business ventures.

They have been open about their relationship on social media, often sharing glimpses of their life together, from vacations to quiet moments at home.

In January 2021, the couple welcomed their first child, a daughter named Vamika. The birth of their daughter brought immense joy to the couple, and they have been protective of her privacy, requesting media and fans to respect their wishes not to photograph or share images of Vamika. In 2024, the couple welcomed their second child, a son named Akaay, expanding their family to four.

Virat is a devoted father who often speaks about how fatherhood has changed his perspective on life. Despite his demanding cricket schedule, he makes time for his children and has been spotted in viral family moments with Anushka, Vamika, and Akaay, whether visiting temples to seek blessings or spending quality time during IPL breaks.

The couple splits their time between Mumbai and London, where they have invested in property. They maintain a relatively private family life despite their celebrity status, choosing to share only select moments with the public.

Virat’s interests beyond cricket include fitness, fashion, and entrepreneurship. He co-owns several businesses, including a chain of fitness centers called Chisel, a fashion label called Wrogn, and has investments in various startups. He is also involved in charitable activities through his foundation, which focuses on helping underprivileged children.

His friendship circle includes fellow cricketers, Bollywood personalities, and business associates. Despite his superstar status, those who know him describe Virat as grounded, loyal to friends, and deeply family-oriented.

Net Worth & Lifestyle: Building a Business Empire

As of 2025, Virat Kohli’s net worth is estimated to be approximately ₹1,050 crores, which is roughly $125-127 million. This massive wealth makes him one of the richest cricketers in the world and places him among India’s wealthiest athletes. His fortune comes from diverse income streams that showcase his business acumen alongside his cricketing talent.

His income sources include:

Cricket Contracts: Virat holds an A+ grade contract with the Board of Control for Cricket in India, the highest category, which provides an annual retainer of approximately ₹7 crores. Additionally, he earns match fees for international matches across all formats.

IPL Salary: As one of the marquee players in the Indian Premier League, Kohli commands a massive salary. For Royal Challengers Bangalore, he has been among the highest-paid players, earning ₹17 crores per season in recent years. His retention by RCB season after season reflects his value to the franchise.

Brand Endorsements: Kohli’s brand endorsement portfolio is extraordinary, featuring over 20 major brands including Puma, Audi, MRF Tyres, Boost, Manyavar, Google, Uber, Herbalife, and many others. His endorsement income alone is estimated at over ₹100 crores annually, making him one of the most marketable athletes globally. His social media presence, with over 270 million followers on Instagram, makes him incredibly valuable for brand partnerships.

Business Ventures: Kohli has intelligently diversified his income through various business ventures. He co-owns the fashion brand Wrogn and the athleisure brand One8. He owns a chain of gyms and fitness centers called Chisel.

He has invested in startups including the celebrity fashion platform Universal Sportsbiz and the UAE-based Galactus Funware Technology. His restaurant ventures include Nueva, a fine-dining establishment in Delhi.

Real Estate: Kohli has made substantial real estate investments. He owns luxury apartments in Mumbai, including a sprawling flat in Worli worth approximately ₹34 crores. The couple also owns property in London, where they spend considerable time. His real estate portfolio is estimated to be worth over ₹100 crores.

Investments: Beyond his active businesses, Kohli has invested in various companies and startups, building a diversified investment portfolio that will provide returns long after his cricket career ends.

Virat’s lifestyle reflects his success while maintaining a sense of balance. He is known for his luxury car collection, which includes an Audi R8, Bentley Continental GT, Range Rover Vogue, and several other high-end vehicles. His passion for cars is well-known, and he is often spotted driving these luxury vehicles around Mumbai.

His fashion sense has evolved over the years, from his early days in cricket to becoming a style icon. He is consistently featured in best-dressed lists and has influenced men’s fashion trends in India. His clothing brands reflect his personal style, which blends sporty and sophisticated aesthetics.

Despite his wealth, Virat has maintained his focus on fitness and healthy living. He follows a strict vegetarian diet, which he adopted in 2018, and maintains a rigorous fitness routine even during off-seasons. His commitment to health and wellness is genuine and not just for show, as evidenced by his consistent performance levels and injury-free record.

Virat is also known for his philanthropic efforts. Through the Virat Kohli Foundation, he supports various causes including child welfare, education, and healthcare. He has donated substantial amounts to relief efforts during natural disasters and the COVID-19 pandemic. However, he prefers to keep much of his charitable work private, focusing on impact rather than publicity.

Recent News & Trends: Test Retirement and New Chapters

The year 2025 has been momentous for Virat Kohli, marked by his decision to retire from Test cricket and his continued excellence in limited-overs formats.

On May 12, 2025, Virat Kohli announced his retirement from Test cricket, bringing the curtain down on a 14-year Test career that spanned 123 matches. In his retirement statement, Kohli reflected on his journey, saying, “It’s been 14 years since I first wore the baggy blue in Test cricket.

” The announcement shocked and saddened cricket fans worldwide, though many understood his desire to manage his workload and focus on formats where he can continue playing for several more years.

His Test career concluded with impressive statistics: 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85, including 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries. The number “269” became symbolic of his Test career, representing his highest Test score, achieved against South Africa in Pune in 2019. This knock was one of his finest and became a reference point for his Test legacy.

The retirement generated massive media coverage and tributes from cricketers worldwide, including legends like Sachin Tendulkar, Ricky Ponting, and Brian Lara, all praising Kohli’s contributions to Test cricket and his impact on the game. Current players expressed gratitude for his mentorship and inspiration.

Following his Test retirement, heartwarming family moments surfaced on social media, showing Virat with Anushka and their children, Vamika and Akaay. These rare glimpses into their private life, including photos shared by Anushka on Children’s Day and other occasions, showed Virat in his role as a devoted father, providing fans with a different perspective on the cricket icon.

The IPL 2025 season saw Kohli continue his dominance in the tournament. Playing for Royal Challengers Bangalore, he added to his already impressive IPL statistics, remaining the tournament’s highest run-scorer. Viral videos of Kohli visiting Anushka’s mother during the IPL suspension period and spending time with his family showcased his commitment to family despite his busy cricket schedule.

Kohli has remained active on social media, regularly sharing fitness content, motivational messages, and glimpses of his personal life. His Instagram posts about his children, describing them as the “light of our lives,” have garnered millions of likes and shown his softer, family-oriented side beyond the aggressive competitor known on the cricket field.

Looking ahead, Kohli has indicated his intention to continue playing ODI cricket and T20Is for India, as well as the IPL for RCB. With the 2026 T20 World Cup and 2027 ODI World Cup on the horizon, fans can expect to see Kohli in Indian colors for several more years in limited-overs cricket.

His business ventures continue to expand, with new endorsement deals being announced regularly. His brand value remains exceptionally high, and he continues to be one of the most sought-after brand ambassadors globally.

Legacy & Impact: Redefining Indian Cricket

Virat Kohli’s legacy extends far beyond his impressive statistics and records. He has fundamentally transformed Indian cricket and inspired an entire generation of cricketers and sports enthusiasts.

Fitness Revolution: Perhaps Kohli’s most significant impact is the fitness revolution he brought to Indian cricket. Before Kohli, Indian cricketers were not known for their athletic physiques or fitness levels. Kohli changed this narrative completely by transforming his own body and making fitness non-negotiable for himself and his team.

Under his influence, fitness became a priority for Indian cricketers, and the team’s fielding and endurance improved dramatically. Young cricketers now view fitness as essential to success, largely because of Kohli’s example.

Aggressive Leadership: Kohli brought a new brand of aggressive, attacking cricket to Indian Test cricket. Unlike previous captains who often adopted conservative approaches, especially overseas, Kohli backed his fast bowlers, set attacking fields, and played with the intent to win rather than just avoid defeat.

This mentality helped India win Test series in Australia, achieve historic overseas victories, and compete aggressively in all conditions.

Chase Master: Kohli’s ability to chase down targets in ODI cricket is legendary. His composure under pressure, strategic batting, and ability to calculate run rates made him the player every team feared in run chases.

He has successfully chased down targets more consistently than almost any batsman in cricket history, earning his reputation as the ultimate chase master.

Role Model: Beyond cricket, Kohli has become a role model for young Indians. His journey from middle-class Delhi to global stardom, his dedication to fitness and wellness, his successful marriage and family life, and his business acumen provide inspiration across multiple dimensions. He represents what is possible through talent, hard work, and smart decisions.

Brand Power: Kohli has elevated the commercial value of cricket and cricketers in India. His massive brand endorsement deals, business ventures, and global recognition have shown that Indian cricketers can compete with global sports stars in terms of marketability and influence.

Mental Toughness: The story of Kohli batting after his father’s death, his comebacks from poor form, his handling of captaincy pressures, and his ability to perform consistently at the highest level demonstrate extraordinary mental strength. He has shown that talent alone is insufficient; mental fortitude is equally crucial for sustained excellence.

Technical Excellence: Kohli’s batting technique, particularly his cover drives and his ability to play in all conditions, will be studied by future generations. His consistency across formats and conditions sets a standard for modern batsmen.

IPL Icon: His loyalty to Royal Challengers Bangalore, despite never winning a title, and his record-breaking performances in the IPL have made him an IPL legend. His impact on the tournament extends beyond statistics to include the standard he set for professionalism and excellence.

Global Recognition: Kohli has taken Indian cricket to global audiences, becoming one of the most recognized athletes worldwide. His social media following, international fan base, and global brand partnerships have made him a true international sports icon, not just an Indian cricket star.

Conclusion: A Legend Still Writing His Story

At 36 years old, Virat Kohli has already secured his place among cricket’s immortals. His statistics, achievements, and impact on the game place him in discussions alongside Sachin Tendulkar, Sir Don Bradman, and other all-time greats. Yet, remarkably, his story is far from over.

While his Test career has concluded, Kohli continues to excel in ODI cricket, T20Is, and the IPL. With major tournaments ahead, including the 2026 T20 World Cup and 2027 ODI World Cup, fans can look forward to witnessing more Kohli magic in the limited-overs formats. His hunger for runs and his commitment to excellence show no signs of diminishing.

What sets Kohli apart is not just his runs or records but his approach to the game and life. He has shown that success requires more than talent—it demands discipline, fitness, mental toughness, strategic thinking, and continuous evolution. His transformation from a talented but chubby youngster to a globally recognized athletic icon demonstrates the power of commitment and self-improvement.

His journey from the streets of Uttam Nagar in Delhi to the world’s biggest cricket stadiums, from watching his father bowl to him as a three-year-old to becoming one of the world’s richest athletes, from losing his father at 18 to building a beautiful family with Anushka—these aspects of his life provide inspiration beyond cricket.

For aspiring cricketers, Kohli’s career offers a blueprint: master your craft, prioritize fitness, develop mental strength, stay humble, be loyal to those who support you, and never stop improving. For anyone pursuing excellence in any field, his story demonstrates that with passion, dedication, and smart decisions, extraordinary success is achievable.

As he continues his career, Kohli’s focus appears to be on enjoying cricket while balancing family life, business ventures, and his role as an elder statesman of Indian cricket. His legacy is secure, but the final chapters of his playing career promise more memorable moments.

Virat Kohli’s biography is ultimately a story about dreams, determination, and destiny. It’s about a middle-class boy from Delhi who dared to dream big, worked relentlessly to achieve those dreams, and inspired millions along the way.

As his journey continues, one thing remains certain: the King of cricket has left an indelible mark on the sport and will be remembered for generations as one of the greatest to ever play the game.

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