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As Virat Kohli turned 36 on Tuesday (November 5), cricket fans and the sporting world celebrated the career of one of India’s most iconic athletes. With over 16 years of dedication to the sport, Kohli has built a legacy defined by his remarkable records, undeniable passion, and unrelenting drive for excellence. His journey from a promising young player to a modern-day cricket legend is marked by monumental achievements and personal growth, both on and off the field.
Unmatched record in International cricket
Since his debut in 2008, Kohli has amassed an impressive array of records across all formats. In Test cricket alone, he has scored 9,040 runs in 118 matches, including 29 centuries, making him the fourth-highest run-scorer for India. His peak years from 2016 to 2019 saw him produce staggering numbers, with 4,208 runs at an average of 66.79. In ODIs, he stands as one of the greatest, with 13,906 runs in 295 matches, an average of 58.18, and a record 50 centuries, placing him among the top ODI run-scorers globally.
Impact on Indian cricket and the modern game
Kohli’s aggressive playing style, coupled with his technical proficiency and mental resilience, has redefined what it means to be an Indian cricketer. Leading by example, he has inspired his teammates and instilled a winning mindset within the team. Kohli’s commitment to fitness and discipline has set new standards, influencing a generation of players and turning India into a formidable cricketing powerhouse.
Words of Wisdom: Kohli’s Philosophy
Kohli’s approach to life and cricket reflects in his quotes, emphasizing hard work, self-belief, and authenticity. Whether discussing the importance of mental toughness, handling pressure, or his views on spirituality, his words resonate with fans and fellow athletes. His belief in self-realization, staying true to himself, and leading with integrity speaks volumes about his character beyond the cricket field.
Also READ: Here is Virat Kohli’s roadmap for a victorious return against Australia in BGT 2024-25
Here are some notable quotes by Kohli that reflect his thoughts on cricket, self-belief, and personal philosophy:
1. On Success
- “Self-belief and hard work will always earn you success.”
2. Authenticity
- “I like to be myself, and I don’t pretend. For instance, I don’t dress up for occasions; I am what I am.”
3. Passion and Hard Work
- “Whatever you want to do, do with full passion and work really hard towards it. Don’t look anywhere else.”
4. Team Dynamics
- “No cricket team in the world depends on one or two players. The team always plays to win.”
5. Spirituality
- “I do believe in God. But you won’t find me visiting temples every now and then. I believe in self-realization.”
6. Handling Pressure
- “I love playing under pressure. In fact, if there’s no pressure, then I’m not in the perfect zone.”
7. The Value of Hard Work
- “Irrespective of whether you have talent or not, one has to work hard. Just being talented doesn’t mean anything.”
8. His Weapon
- “The bat is not a toy, it’s a weapon. It gives me everything in life.”
9. Fitness and Attitude
- “A fit body gives you confidence. There’s nothing more impressive than a great attitude.”
10. Aggression on the Field
- “On the field, aggression can sometimes be a positive emotion. But I’ve learnt that restrained aggression is better.”
11. His Inspiration
- “In cricket, my superhero is Sachin Tendulkar. He has always been my hero and will continue to remain so.”
12. Personal Life
- “I feel only my friends and family need to know what is happening in my personal life.”
13. Dreams and Aspirations
- “I always dreamt of holding the bat and winning games for India.”
14. Learning from Mistakes
- “I have made a few mistakes early on that I admit myself… that’s how you learn.”
15. Legacy
- “Becoming an inspiration for kids is great. I want to inspire them to do whatever they want to.”
