Virat Kohli is one of the greatest cricketers of the modern era and a global sporting icon. Known for his aggressive batting style, unmatched consistency, and fierce leadership, Kohli has redefined Indian cricket across formats. From a young boy in Delhi with big dreams to becoming a former Indian captain and one of the most-followed athletes in the world, Virat Kohli’s journey is a story of discipline, passion, and relentless hard work.
This article covers Virat Kohli’s biography, including his age, height, family, wife, career, records, net worth, achievements, and lesser-known facts, making it a complete profile for fans and readers.
Virat Kohli Personal Information
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Full Name: Virat Kohli
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Date of Birth: 5 November 1988
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Age: 37 years (as of 2026)
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Birthplace: Delhi, India
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Nationality: Indian
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Religion: Hinduism
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Zodiac Sign: Scorpio
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Height: 5 feet 9 inches (175 cm)
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Weight: Approx. 70 kg
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Batting Style: Right-handed
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Bowling Style: Right-arm medium
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Role: Top-order Batsman
Early Life and Family Background
Virat Kohli was Born into a Punjabi Family in Delhi.
His father, Prem Kohli, was a criminal lawyer, and his mother, Saroj Kohli, is a homemaker. Virat has an elder brother, Vikas Kohli, and an elder sister, Bhavna Kohli.
From a very young age, Virat showed a deep interest in cricket. Recognizing his talent, his father enrolled him at the West Delhi Cricket Academy (WDCA) in 1998 when Virat was just nine years old. His coach, Rajkumar Sharma, played a crucial role in shaping his discipline and technique.
A turning point in his life came in 2006 when his father passed away due to a stroke. Despite the tragedy, Virat chose to play a Ranji Trophy match the very next day, scoring 90 runs — a moment that defined his mental strength.
Education
Virat Kohli completed his schooling at Vishal Bharti Public School, Delhi, and later attended Saviour Convent School, Paschim Vihar. Although he did not pursue higher education, his learning came from the cricket field, discipline, and life experiences.
Domestic Cricket Career
Virat Kohli made his domestic cricket debut for Delhi in 2006. His early performances showcased his hunger for runs and his ability to handle pressure.
Key Highlights:
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Debuted in Ranji Trophy at age 18
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Scored a crucial knock against Karnataka despite personal loss
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Quickly became a dependable middle-order batsman
His domestic performances paved the way for national selection.
International Cricket Career
India U-19 and Early Success
Virat Kohli rose to national attention when he captained India to victory in the 2008 ICC Under-19 World Cup held in Malaysia. His leadership and calm temperament impressed selectors, leading to his senior team call-up.
ODI Career
Virat Kohli made his ODI debut on 18 August 2008 against Sri Lanka.
Over the years, he became:
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One of the fastest players to score 8,000, 9,000, 10,000+ ODI runs
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A master of run chases
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Known as “Chase Master”
His consistency in ODIs is considered among the best in cricket history.
Test Cricket Career
Virat Kohli made his Test debut in 2011 against West Indies. Initially inconsistent, he soon transformed into a dominant Test batsman.
As Test captain, he:
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Led India to historic overseas wins
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Improved India’s fast-bowling culture
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Became India’s most successful Test captain
T20 International Career
Virat Kohli has been a pillar of India’s T20 team:
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Outstanding ICC T20 World Cup performances
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Known for anchor-style innings under pressure
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One of the highest run-scorers in T20 internationals
Indian Premier League (IPL)
Virat Kohli has played entire IPL career with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB).
IPL Highlights:
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Only player to play all IPL seasons for one franchise
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Orange Cap winner multiple times
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Scored 973 runs in IPL 2016 — a record
Though RCB has not won an IPL title yet, Kohli remains one of the most loyal and loved franchise players.
Virat Kohli Captaincy
Virat Kohli served as:
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Test Captain (2014–2022)
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ODI Captain (2017–2021)
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T20I Captain (2017–2021)
His captaincy style was aggressive, fitness-focused, and result-oriented. While opinions are mixed, his impact on Indian cricket culture is undeniable.
Records and Achievements
Major Records:
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Fastest to multiple ODI run milestones
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Most centuries in successful ODI run chases
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One of the highest international centuries scorers
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ICC Player of the Year multiple times
Awards:
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Arjuna Award (2013)
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Padma Shri (2017)
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Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna (2018)
Virat Kohli Net Worth
As of 2026, Virat Kohli’s estimated net worth is ₹1,050+ crore INR.
Income Sources:
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BCCI salary
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IPL contracts
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Brand endorsements (Puma, Audi, MRF, etc.)
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Business ventures
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Social media collaborations
He is one of the richest cricketers in the world.
Wife and Personal Life
Virat Kohli married Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma on 11 December 2017 in Italy. The couple is known for maintaining privacy and balance between professional and personal life.
They have two children and often speak about mental health, family values, and conscious living.
Fitness and Lifestyle
Virat Kohli is known for transforming Indian cricket’s fitness standards:
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Strict diet
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Intense training routines
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Vegan lifestyle (partially)
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Mental discipline
His fitness journey has inspired millions of young athletes.
Controversies
Like any big star, Virat Kohli has faced controversies related to:
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On-field aggression
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Media statements
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Captaincy decisions
However, he has always addressed criticism with performance.
Lesser-Known Facts About Virat Kohli
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He is afraid of heights
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He loves dogs and owns several pets
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He wears jersey number 18 in memory of his father
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He is among the most-followed athletes on social media globally
Virat Kohli is more than just a cricketer — he is a phenomenon. His journey from Delhi streets to global stadiums represents resilience, discipline, and belief. Whether it’s breaking records, leading from the front, or inspiring the next generation, Virat Kohli’s legacy in cricket is already eternal.