Virat Kohli Biography
Virat Kohli is an Indian international cricketer widely regarded as one of the greatest batsmen in the history of the game, particularly in limited-overs cricket. Born on 5 November 1988 in New Delhi, India, he is an Indian national known for his aggressive batting style, exceptional fitness, and leadership qualities. Kohli has represented India in all formats of the game and holds numerous records, including the most centuries in One Day Internationals (ODIs).
Over his illustrious career, Virat Kohli has inspired millions with his dedication, mental strength, and pursuit of excellence. From humble beginnings in Delhi to becoming a global icon, his journey reflects resilience and passion. He has won major ICC trophies, led India in all formats, and built a successful career in the Indian Premier League (IPL) with Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Even after retiring from Tests in 2025 and T20Is in 2024, his legacy continues to influence cricket and beyond.
Virat Kohli Early Life and Education
Virat Kohli was born on 5 November 1988 in New Delhi into a Punjabi Hindu family. His formative years were spent in Uttam Nagar. He showed an early interest in cricket from the age of three, often picking up a bat and asking his father to bowl to him. His family recognized his talent and enrolled him in the West Delhi Cricket Academy in 1998, where he trained under coach Rajkumar Sharma.
Kohli’s early education took place at Vishal Bharti Public School up to Class 9. To better accommodate his growing cricket commitments, he transferred to Saviour Convent School in Paschim Vihar for Classes 9 to 12. He focused intensely on cricket and did not pursue higher education or a college degree, prioritizing his sporting career. His determination became even stronger after the death of his father in December 2006, which motivated him to take the game more seriously.
In his youth, Kohli played for Delhi’s age-group teams. He excelled in Under-15 and Under-17 tournaments, scoring heavily and developing a reputation for consistency and temperament. These early experiences laid the foundation for his professional journey.
Virat Kohli Age
As of 2026, Virat Kohli is 37 years old. He remains active in ODIs and domestic cricket, showcasing remarkable fitness and passion for the game even after retiring from the longer and shortest formats.
Virat Kohli Parents
Virat Kohli’s father, Prem Nath Kohli, was a criminal lawyer who passed away in 2006 due to a cerebral attack. His mother, Saroj Kohli, is a homemaker who has been a constant source of support. The family played a vital role in nurturing his talent, with his father making significant sacrifices to support his cricket training.
Virat Kohli Achievements
Virat Kohli boasts an impressive list of achievements across formats. He is the only Indian to have been ranked number one in all three international formats at different points. He holds the record for the most ODI centuries with 54 and has scored over 85 international centuries in total. Kohli was the leading run-scorer in a single IPL season with 973 runs in 2016 and remains the all-time leading run-getter in IPL history.
He captained India to victories in major tournaments and contributed significantly to the 2011 ODI World Cup win. Kohli led the Under-19 team to World Cup glory in 2008. His consistency, fitness regime, and chasing masterclass have redefined modern batting. He became the fastest to reach several ODI run milestones and scored double centuries in Tests, including against strong bowling attacks worldwide.
In the IPL, he has been a stalwart for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, helping the team secure its first title in recent years. Kohli’s ability to perform under pressure and his work ethic have earned him acclaim as one of cricket’s finest.
Virat Kohli Career
Virat Kohli’s senior domestic career began with Delhi in 2006. He made his first-class debut shortly before his father’s death and showed remarkable composure by scoring a crucial 90 in that match. His performances in Ranji Trophy and other domestic competitions caught the selectors’ attention.
He debuted for India in ODIs in 2008 against Sri Lanka. Early challenges tested his resolve, but consistent performances, including a maiden century in 2009, established him as a key player. Kohli shone in the 2011 World Cup and rose rapidly through the ranks.
As captain from 2014 onward in various formats, he transformed India’s overseas performances, securing Test series wins in Australia, England, and elsewhere. His leadership emphasized fitness and aggression. Kohli excelled in chases, earning the nickname “King Kohli” for his ability to anchor innings or accelerate as needed.
In T20 cricket, he was part of India’s 2024 World Cup-winning squad, retiring from the format after the triumph. He announced Test retirement in May 2025 after a distinguished career. Kohli continues to play ODIs, contributing experience and skill.
His IPL journey with RCB has been iconic. Despite the team not always winning titles early on, Kohli’s loyalty and performances made him a fan favorite. He has scored thousands of runs and multiple centuries in the league, setting benchmarks for consistency.
Throughout his career, Kohli has emphasized mental toughness, rigorous training, and a plant-based diet shift that enhanced his fitness. His evolution from a flamboyant youngster to a mature leader highlights his adaptability.
Virat Kohli Awards
Virat Kohli has received numerous prestigious awards. He won the Arjuna Award in 2013, the Padma Shri in 2017, and the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna (now Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna) in 2018, India’s highest sporting honor. He has won ten ICC Awards, the most by any player, including multiple ODI Player of the Year honors and Cricketer of the Year titles. In 2018, he swept the major ICC awards. Kohli was named Cricketer of the Decade (2011-2020) and has been featured in Time magazine’s 100 most influential people.
A stand at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi was named after him, recognizing his contributions to Indian cricket.
Virat Kohli Personal Life
Virat Kohli married Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma in December 2017 in a private ceremony in Italy. The couple has two children: daughter Vamika, born in January 2021, and son Akaay, born in 2024. Kohli has spoken about the transformative impact of fatherhood and prioritizes family time.
He is known for his love of animals and supports welfare causes. The couple maintains a relatively private family life despite their fame. Kohli’s fitness routines, including yoga and gym sessions, are well-documented and inspire fans.
Virat Kohli Net Worth
Virat Kohli’s net worth is estimated around ₹1,000 to ₹1,115 crore or more as of 2026, making him one of India’s wealthiest athletes. His earnings come from BCCI contracts, IPL salary (around ₹21 crore per season in recent years), massive brand endorsements with companies like Puma, Audi, and MRF, and business ventures. He has built a significant portfolio through investments and influence.
Conclusion
Virat Kohli’s story is one of talent, hard work, and unwavering commitment. From the streets of Delhi to global cricket stadiums, he has redefined what it means to be a modern cricketer. His records, leadership, and off-field persona have left an indelible mark on the sport and society. As he continues his journey, Kohli remains a role model for aspiring athletes worldwide, proving that passion combined with discipline can achieve greatness.
FAQs
What is Virat Kohli’s date of birth and place of birth?
Virat Kohli was born on 5 November 1988 in New Delhi, India.
Who is Virat Kohli’s wife?
Virat Kohli is married to actress Anushka Sharma.
How many children does Virat Kohli have?
Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma have two children, a daughter named Vamika and a son named Akaay.
What are Virat Kohli’s major records in cricket?
He holds the record for the most ODI centuries and is among the highest run-scorers across formats. He has numerous milestones in Tests, ODIs, T20Is, and the IPL.
When did Virat Kohli retire from international cricket formats?
He retired from T20Is in 2024 after the World Cup win and from Tests in May 2025.
What is Virat Kohli’s net worth?
Estimates place his net worth at over ₹1,000 crore, driven by cricket earnings and endorsements.
Which team does Virat Kohli play for in the IPL?
He plays for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB).
What schools did Virat Kohli attend?
He studied at Vishal Bharti Public School and Saviour Convent School in Delhi.