How Virat Kohli Became the GOAT of Cricket: A Complete Journey

When you think of modern cricket, one name instantly stands out: Virat Kohli. From his explosive debut to years of unmatched performance across all formats, Kohli has become a symbol of passion, power, and consistency. Fans often call him the GOAT of cricket — and now, there’s no debate.

In 2025, Kohli finally achieved what fans had waited for over a decade — RCB lifted their first-ever IPL trophy. RCB has finally won the IPL title, and Kohli’s legacy is now even stronger. This moment didn’t just end a title drought; it marked one of the most emotional and defining chapters in cricket history.

Let’s look at how Virat Kohli became the GOAT of cricket, and how this long-awaited IPL win adds the perfect finishing touch to a rollercoaster journey.

Early Life and Struggles

Virat Kohli was born on November 5, 1988, in Delhi, India. Growing up in a middle-class family, he developed an early passion for cricket. His father, Prem Kohli, worked as a lawyer and supported his son's dream, despite facing financial challenges.

Kohli’s early life wasn't always smooth. In fact, one of the most defining moments came in 2006, when his father passed away. Remarkably, just hours after the tragedy, he chose to play in an important Ranji Trophy match — a decision that could have broken any other young athlete. However, despite the emotional turmoil, Kohli showed incredible resilience by scoring 90 runs for his team. As a result, his mental toughness became evident, even at such a young age. Clearly, this moment set the tone for the grit he would carry throughout his career.

It was during this period of personal tragedy that Kohli’s love for the game became a powerful motivation. His rise in the domestic circuit was meteoric. In 2008, at just 19 years old, he led India to a U19 World Cup victory in Malaysia. This was a sign of things to come.

U19 World Cup & International Debut

The victory in the U19 World Cup in 2008 marked the beginning of Kohli’s international career. His fearless batting and leadership caught the attention of selectors, and he made his ODI debut the same year against Sri Lanka.

However, his early years in international cricket were challenging. He was often criticized for being inconsistent, and his fitness was questioned. He struggled to establish himself and faced multiple setbacks, including being dropped from the playing XI due to poor form.

But it wasn’t all bad. Kohli’s breakthrough moment came during the 2010 Asia Cup, where he scored a match-winning century against Sri Lanka. This was just the beginning of his remarkable journey.

Fitness Transformation & Rise to Stardom

One of the turning points in Kohli’s career came when he realized that to compete at the highest level, he needed to be fitter. In 2012, Kohli started focusing on fitness, transforming his body and improving his performance. He adopted a disciplined fitness regime and even changed his diet to a more plant-based one. This shift in lifestyle not only improved his fitness but also his consistency.

Here’s how you can become a better cricketer too.

By 2013, Kohli had started to emerge as one of the best ODI players in the world. His aggressive and fearless approach to batting became his signature style. He could chase down any total with ease and had a knack for scoring runs under pressure. His performances in 2013 — including his match-winning knock in the ICC Champions Trophy final — showed the world that Kohli was now a force to be reckoned with.

His fitness also became a driving force behind the fitness culture within the Indian team. Kohli’s transformation pushed his teammates to follow suit, making India one of the fittest teams in world cricket.

The Golden Years: Peak Performance (2016-2019)

Between 2016 and 2019, Virat Kohli’s career reached its peak. His form was unparalleled, and he shattered records across all formats.

ODI Dominance

Kohli became the fastest to 10,000 runs in ODIs, breaking multiple records along the way. His aggressive yet technically sound batting allowed him to dominate attacks all over the world. By 2025, he had scored over 51 ODI centuries, surpassing the legendary Sachin Tendulkar’s record for most centuries in cricket.

Test Cricket Success

Kohli’s success in Test cricket also set him apart. Notably, in 2018–19, he became the first Indian captain to win a Test series in Australia — a historic achievement. Furthermore, his ability to adapt to different conditions, particularly in the West Indies, South Africa, and England, showcased his class as both a batsman and a leader. During this period, he consistently produced centuries across multiple overseas series. As a result, he firmly established his status as one of India’s greatest Test performers.

T20 Cricket

Furthermore, Kohli’s consistency in T20 internationals was truly remarkable. Because of his unique ability to anchor the innings while still maintaining a high strike rate, he quickly became one of the most successful T20 players in the world. Notably, he remains the highest run-scorer in ICC T20 World Cups — a testament to his sustained excellence.

Leadership & Captaincy

In 2017, Kohli was handed full-time captaincy of India in all formats. His leadership saw India become the No.1 Test team and achieve a record number of series wins. Under Kohli’s leadership, India became a dominant force in world cricket. However, his leadership also came with challenges.

While he led India to the final of the ICC World Test Championship (2021) and a historic Test series win in Australia (2018–19), Kohli also began to face increasing pressure. In particular, his aggressive leadership style was sometimes seen as too intense, which led to friction with certain players and critics. Nevertheless, despite the challenges, Kohli’s performance remained top-notch throughout this period.

Virat Kohli’s Batting Style and Technique

Virat Kohli is not just a run-scorer; his batting style is admired worldwide. One of the key factors in his success is his ability to adapt to different formats and conditions.

• ODI Technique: In ODIs, Kohli is known for his unorthodox yet effective style. He plays with soft hands, which allows him to guide the ball through gaps while maintaining control. His ability to rotate the strike and find gaps in the field is exceptional.
  
• Test Cricket: Kohli has refined his technique to adapt to difficult overseas conditions. His famous back-foot play and mental toughness have been key in him overcoming challenges in countries like Australia, South Africa, and England.
  
• T20s: His adaptability in T20s is well-known — he can accelerate when required but is also capable of staying calm and playing the anchor role in chases. His quick decision-making and placement make him a dangerous asset in the shortest format.

Controversies and Media Tension

Virat Kohli's career has not been without controversy. His aggressive playing style often spilled over into his leadership approach, leading to moments of tension both with the media and fellow players.

• Media Relations: Kohli’s passionate nature has sometimes created friction with the media. His bluntness in interviews and refusal to engage in unnecessary media gimmicks often made headlines. For some, his confrontational approach was seen as refreshing; for others, it was seen as a negative trait.
  
• On-field Tensions: Kohli’s intensity also led to on-field altercations, particularly during his early years. His aggressive celebrations and fierce desire to win sometimes crossed lines, sparking debates about his temperament. Over time, though, Kohli learned to channel that aggression positively, helping to shape the modern Indian cricket team.

Despite these challenges, Kohli's leadership style remains highly respected. He set standards of excellence for both himself and his team, leading by example.

Kohli’s Influence on the Next Generation of Cricketers

Virat Kohli's influence extends far beyond his own performances. His relentless pursuit of excellence and his passion for the game have inspired a new generation of cricketers.

Initiatives like Cricheroes are also recognizing grassroots talent across the country.

• Fitness Revolution: Kohli revolutionized fitness standards in Indian cricket. Before his rise, fitness was not prioritized the way it is today. However, his personal transformation changed that narrative. In fact, Kohli’s fitness journey became a blueprint for young cricketers to follow. As a result, his rigorous routine has now become a model for both amateurs and professionals alike.
  
• Mental Toughness: Young cricketers look up to Kohli for his mental resilience. His never-give-up attitude is something many budding players try to emulate. Kohli's ability to bounce back from tough periods, both professionally and personally, is an inspiring example of mental toughness.
  
• Influence on Leadership: Kohli’s leadership set new benchmarks. He led by example and promoted self-belief, discipline, and a team-first mindset. As a result, he shaped a new generation of cricketers who value both skill and leadership. Moreover, his impact went beyond tactics — it brought unity and professionalism to the team. Ultimately, his style became a model for captains worldwide.
  

Kohli’s legacy inspired improvements in grassroots cricket across India.

The Comeback: Redemption (2022-2024)

In 2022, Kohli decided to take a break from cricket to refresh his mind and body. He came back in 2022 and showed signs of his old self, particularly in the Asia Cup and the T20 World Cup, where he played match-winning knocks.

In 2023, Kohli regained his form with back-to-back centuries, silencing critics and proving that his hunger for runs was far from over. He continued to dominate across formats, and by 2025, he became the second player in history to reach 82 international centuries, further solidifying his place among cricket’s all-time greats.

His return to form marked a new phase in his career, showing that even after going through a rough patch, Kohli still had plenty left to offer.

IPL 2025 – The End of an 18-Year Wait

The IPL trophy was the only thing missing from Virat Kohli’s incredible career. And after 18 seasons with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), that long-awaited dream finally came true in 2025.

For years, Kohli faced criticism for not winning an IPL title. Still, he remained loyal to RCB — through final heartbreaks, near misses, and constant pressure. For years, Kohli faced criticism for not winning an IPL title. Still, he remained loyal to RCB — enduring final heartbreaks, near misses, and relentless pressure. While others might have switched teams, Kohli stayed. Because he believed.

In the 2025 final at the Narendra Modi Stadium, RCB posted 190/9 against Punjab Kings. Kohli, opening the innings, played a composed knock of 43 runs off 34 balls — setting the tone for a high-stakes match. Punjab Kings responded with 184/7, falling short by just six runs. After 18 seasons, RCB were champions at last.

As the final ball was bowled, Kohli fell to his knees in emotion. He later held the trophy aloft with tears in his eyes, while chants of "Kohli! Kohli!" echoed through the stadium.

In a heartfelt post-match moment, he dedicated the win to former teammates AB de Villiers and Chris Gayle, saying, “They deserve it as much as I do.”

“This isn’t just a trophy,” Kohli said.

"It’s 18 years of faith, pain, and never giving up."

- Virat Kohli

That night, Kohli didn’t just complete a career milestone — he completed a promise. To himself. To his team. And to every RCB fan who never stopped believing.

Virat Kohli’s Career Timeline: Key Milestones

Year	Milestones
2006	Played Ranji Trophy match for Delhi a day after his father’s death, scoring 90 to save the team from follow-on.
2008	Captained India to ICC U-19 World Cup victory in Malaysia; made ODI debut vs Sri Lanka (Aug 18); debuted in IPL with RCB.
2009	Scored maiden ODI half-century vs Sri Lanka; cemented place in India’s ODI squad.
2010	Scored first ODI century (107 vs Sri Lanka, Kolkata); became vice-captain of RCB in IPL.
2011	Part of India’s ICC Cricket World Cup-winning squad, scored 35 in final; made Test debut vs West Indies at Kingston (June 20).
2012	Scored 183 vs Pakistan in Asia Cup, his then highest ODI score; established as a key ODI batsman.
2013	Played key role in India’s ICC Champions Trophy win; appointed RCB captain in IPL.
2014	Scored four Test centuries in Australia, including twin hundreds in Adelaide as stand-in captain; solidified leadership credentials.
2015	Became full-time Test captain after MS Dhoni’s retirement; led India to first Test series win in Sri Lanka in 22 years.
2016	Set IPL record with 973 runs in a season (Orange Cap), led RCB to IPL final; scored maiden Test double century (200 vs West Indies).
2017	Won ICC Cricketer of the Year and ICC ODI Player of the Year; led India to ODI series win in South Africa.
2018	Became first Asian captain to win a Test series in Australia (2-1); scored 593 runs in England Test series.
2019	Became fastest to 11,000 ODI runs and 20,000 international runs; led India to World Cup semifinal.
2020	Scored 70th international century (Test vs Bangladesh).
2021	Stepped down as India’s T20I and ODI captain after T20 World Cup exit; continued as Test captain.
2022	Stepped down as Test captain after 68 matches (most wins as Indian Test captain); scored first T20I century (122* vs Afghanistan).
2023	Scored record 50th ODI century in World Cup semifinal, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar; named Player of the Tournament with 765 runs.
2024	Scored 76 in T20 World Cup final vs South Africa; named Player of the Match; announced retirement from T20Is; won IPL Orange Cap again.
2025	Helped RCB win their maiden IPL title, scoring 657 runs in the season.May 12, 2025 – Retired abruptly from Test cricket before the England series, refusing a farewell match; finished with 123 matches, 9,230 runs, and 30 centuries.

Career Stats and Records

• 82 International Centuries (30 Tests, 51 ODIs, 1 T20I)
  
• 27,599 International Runs (9,230 in Tests, 14,181 in ODIs, 4,188 in T20Is)
  
• Most ODI Centuries in History (51 – record holder)
  
• Fastest to 8k–14k ODI Runs
  
• Most Runs in T20 World Cups (1,292 runs)
  
• Most Runs for India in ICC Tournaments (3,270 runs)
  
• Virat Kohli was the first Indian captain to win a Test series in Australia (2018–19). Ajinkya Rahane also led India to a series win in Australia during the 2020–21 tour.
  
• Most Runs in IPL History (8,661 runs in 267 matches)
  
• Most Centuries in IPL (8)

Off the Field: Kohli’s Influence Beyond Cricket

Virat Kohli’s influence goes beyond cricket. Off the field, he is a well-known fitness advocate and has been a major influence on the culture of fitness in Indian cricket. He is also one of the most marketable athletes in the world.

• Social Media: Kohli is one of the most followed athletes globally, with millions of fans across all platforms.
  
• Brand Ambassador: He has endorsement deals with some of the biggest brands, including Nike, Audi, and Puma.
  
• Philanthropy: Through the Virat Kohli Foundation, he has donated millions of dollars to causes related to child welfare and education.

Pros and Cons of Kohli’s Career

Pros:

• Consistency across formats
  
• Fitness icon in cricket
  
• Strong leadership and team building
  
• Mental toughness and comeback mindset
  
• Massive fan base and global respect

Cons:

• No ICC trophy as senior team captain (but won 4 ICC titles: 2008 ICC Under-19 World Cup as captain, 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup, 2013 ICC Champions Trophy, 2024 ICC T20 World Cup)
  
• Aggression sometimes misinterpreted
  
• Lean patch (2020–2022) affected stats

Expert Verdict:

"Kohli is the ODI GOAT, but all-format debates include Tendulkar and Sobers. His true legacy? Making India believe they could dominate overseas."

– Harsha Bhogle, Cricbuzz

Conclusion: Kohli’s Legacy and Why He’s the GOAT

Virat Kohli’s journey is full of hard work, courage, and love for the game. Although he faced difficult times and personal loss, he nevertheless emerged as one of the greatest cricketers of all time. From being a young player with big dreams to a leader who faced every challenge head-on, Kohli has shown that true success comes from never giving up—not just from talent alone.

After reaching 82 international centuries and 8 in the IPL, winning the 2025 title, and maintaining elite form across formats, Kohli’s legacy is now unshakable. and maintaining his status as one of the best in world cricket, Kohli’s legacy is now firmly etched in cricketing history.

There’s no debate: Virat Kohli is the GOAT of cricket.

FAQs 

1. Is Virat Kohli the GOAT of cricket?

Yes, based on his consistency, records, and impact across all formats, Virat Kohli is widely regarded as the GOAT.

2. How many centuries has Virat Kohli scored in ODIs?

Virat Kohli has scored 51 ODI centuries, the most by any player in history.

3. Has Virat Kohli won the IPL?

Yes, Virat Kohli won the IPL with RCB in 2025, but he was not the captain — Rajat Patidar led the team.

4. What makes Kohli the best in cricket?

His ability to perform under pressure, consistency across formats, leadership skills, and unmatched fitness set him apart.

5. When did Virat Kohli become captain of India?

Kohli became India's full-time Test captain in 2014 and took over as the full-time ODI and T20I captain in 2017.

6. What was Kohli’s lowest point in his career?

Kohli’s form slump from 2020 to 2022 was his lowest point, where he struggled with consistency and stepped down from captaincy.

7. What is Virat Kohli’s highest score in an ODI?

Virat Kohli's highest score in an ODI is 183 runs, achieved against Pakistan in 2012.

8. Has Kohli won any ICC awards?

Yes, Kohli has won multiple ICC Cricketer of the Year awards, including in 2017 and 2018.

9. When did Virat Kohli score his first international century?

Virat Kohli scored his first international century in 2009 against Sri Lanka in an ODI.

10. How did Virat Kohli impact Indian cricket?

Kohli revolutionized fitness culture, raised the bar for consistency, and led India to the No.1 Test ranking for years.

Sources & References

ESPNcricinfo player profile: Virat Kohli – Stats & Records

IPLT20.com: Player records and historical stats

Official BCCI

Disclaimer

This blog is a fan-written tribute to Virat Kohli, based on publicly available statistics, match records, and credible news sources as of June 2025. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, cricket data is subject to change with ongoing matches and updates. This content is for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with the BCCI, RCB, or any official cricketing body.