Virat Kohli, the iconic cricketer hailed as “The King,” was born on November 5, 1988, in Delhi, to Prem Kohli, a criminal lawyer, and Saroj Kohli, a housewife, in a Punjabi family. Raised in Uttam Nagar, Delhi, Kohli’s passion for cricket manifested at the tender age of three when he would wield the bat, urging his father to bowl to him.
His journey to greatness commenced in 1998 when the West Delhi Academy was established, and Kohli, fueled by his fervor for the sport, eagerly participated despite being of a tender age. His coach recollects Kohli’s determination to play alongside his seniors, a desire that eventually earned him permission, showcasing his love and aggression towards cricket.
Kohli’s foray into domestic cricket began at 14 when he was selected for the Delhi Under-15 squad. His talent shone brightly in the Polly Umrigar Trophy of October 2002, where he emerged as the leading run-scorer with 172 runs. Despite juggling academic responsibilities, Kohli’s stellar performance continued, captaining the team in the 2003-04 Polly Umrigar Trophy and leaving an indelible mark with two centuries and two fifties.
In 2004, Kohli’s prowess reached new heights as he dominated the Under-17 Vijay Merchant Trophy, emerging as the leading run-scorer with 470 runs, including two centuries. His remarkable performance earned him a spot in the Under-19 Indian team for the tour to England in July 2006, where he made significant contributions to India’s victories. Kohli’s leadership skills came to the fore when he captained the triumphant India Under-19 team in the 2008 ICC Under-19 World Cup, cementing his reputation as a formidable cricketer.
Following his success in the Under-19 circuit, Kohli made his foray into the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2008, joining Royal Challengers Bangalore. His stellar performances caught the eye of selectors, leading to his inclusion in the Indian squad for the Sri Lanka Tour and ICC Champions Trophy in August 2008. Despite initial challenges, Kohli’s tenacity and talent propelled him to success, earning him recognition as a key player in the Indian team.
Kohli’s international career witnessed a turning point in the Emerging Player Tournament in 2009, where his exceptional performance earned him accolades and paved the way for future success. His journey to greatness continued as he was appointed captain for the Tri-series against Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe in 2010, showcasing his leadership skills and determination on the field.
Despite facing setbacks and criticism, Kohli’s resilience and passion for the game remained unwavering. His remarkable comeback in the World Cup, where he scored his maiden century, exemplified his indomitable spirit and dedication to cricket.
Kohli’s journey is not just a testament to his cricketing prowess but also to his resilience and determination in the face of adversity. His father’s untimely demise catalyzed Kohli’s unwavering commitment to the sport, instilling in him a sense of purpose and determination to succeed.
His journey from a young boy with a dream to one of the most celebrated cricketers in the world is a testament to his unwavering dedication, passion, and perseverance. Kohli’s inspirational journey serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring cricketers and a testament to resilience, determination, and self-belief in achieving one’s dreams.
In conclusion, Virat Kohli’s journey from humble beginnings to cricketing stardom is a testament to his unwavering dedication, passion, and perseverance. His remarkable achievements on and off the field have earned him accolades and admiration from fans worldwide, making him an inspiration to millions.
By: Ayush Kumar Poddar (Science, E1)