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Virat Kohli completes 16 years in international cricket: Highs & lows in his career

Virat Kohli successfully completes 16 years in International circuit. Here are some of the highs, lows and takeaways from Virat Kohli's career.


Ricky Ponting affirms Virat Kohli’s achievements as Test captain more staggering than his (Images_ ©Twitter_X)
Virat Kohli completes 16 years in International Cricket (Images: ©Twitter/X)

“For 60 overs, they should feel like hell out there."  These lines could be enough to describe the long legacy of 16 years in international cricket that a man from Delhi, the legendary Virat Kohli, has lived. There is always a sense of awe and admiration when it comes to writing about Kohli and his incredible journey in cricket.


16 years have passed since that young, fiery cricketer debuted, and what a ride it has been. A breath of fresh air, a whirlwind of energy, and passion on the field is exactly what Kohli has remained throughout his career—a force to be reckoned with.


Since his debut in 2008, Kohli has not only redefined the benchmarks of cricketing success but has also become a symbol of dedication, passion, and sheer will. His career is a tapestry woven with records, leadership, and moments that have left an indelible mark on the sport. 


As the cricketing world pauses to acknowledge a remarkable milestone, Virat Kohli stands tall, celebrating 16 glorious years in international cricket. A journey marked by unparalleled success, unwavering dedication, and unrelenting passion, Kohli's career has been an inspiration to millions. From the highs of triumphant victories to the lows of heartbreaking defeats, Kohli has traversed the landscape of international cricket with an unyielding intent to win and an unshakeable commitment to excellence.


Early Years: A Glimpse of Greatness

Kohli's international debut in 2008 was a mere whisper of the greatness that was to follow. A 19-year-old prodigy, he announced his arrival with a half-century against Sri Lanka, showcasing a glimpse of the incredible talent that lay within. The early years were marked by a steep learning curve, with Kohli facing setbacks and criticism. However, he persevered, fuelled by an insatiable hunger to succeed and a burning desire to don the Indian jersey.


"I remember watching Virat (Kohli) play for the first time," recalls his childhood coach, Rajkumar Sharma. "He was just a young boy with a big dream. His dedication and passion were evident even back then. I knew he was destined for greatness."


Rise of Virat Kohli

As time passed, Virat Kohli's skill with the bat became the stuff of legend. He plundered runs with reckless abandon, his aggressive intent and precision leaving opponents bewildered. The 2011 World Cup triumph was a defining moment, with Kohli's little but significant contributions to India's victory. The world took notice of the young India batter, who was rapidly evolving into a force to be reckoned with.

The Captaincy Years

Kohli's ascension to captaincy marked a new chapter in his illustrious career. With a success rate of 75.89%, Kohli’s commitment to excellence has inspired a generation of cricketers. Under his stewardship, India scaled new heights, dominating across formats and continents. The 2019 World Cup semi-final heartbreak was a rare blip in an otherwise illustrious tenure, a testament to Kohli's dedication to the team's cause.


"Virat (Kohli)'s leadership was a game-changer for Indian cricket," says former India captain, Sourav Ganguly. "He brought a sense of aggression and intent that was missing from Indian cricket. His passion and energy were infectious, and he inspired a generation of cricketers to take the game to new heights."


The Kohli Way

Kohli's career is not only about his batting skills but also his intent. It has been defined by aggression and the will to win. He has never been one to shy away from a challenge; his unbridled passion and energy are infectious. Whether chasing down improbable targets or setting up daunting scores, Kohli has always led from the front, his will to win inspiring those around him.


ICC Men's T20 World cup 2022_ Virat Kohli doesn't look happy as India lost to England in semi-final _ Walking Wicket (Source_ ©ICC/X)
Virat Kohli redefined chases in ODI cricket in many ways (Source: ©ICC/X)

The Lows in Kohli’s Career

Like anyone, Kohli's career has also not been without its share of setbacks. The 2014 England tour, where he struggled against England pace stalwart James Anderson, was a low point. The 2019 World Cup semi-final defeat was another heartbreaking moment. A patch of low runs hit Kohli’s career graph in 2019 and 20s. However, Kohli's fighting spirit has been a hallmark of his career, and his ability to bounce back from adversity is proof of his commitment to excellence.


The Legacy

As Virat Kohli celebrates 16 years in international cricket, his legacy extends far beyond the boundaries of the cricketing world. He has inspired a generation of cricketers, and his dedication and unrelenting passion are a beacon of hope for aspiring athletes. 


As I write this, I am reminded of another iconic statement of his: "I don't mind getting hurt; I don't mind getting injured, because I know I've given it my all." That is the kind of dedication and sacrifice that is required to succeed at this level. Sixteen years have passed, but the fire within Virat Kohli still burns bright. He is still the same passionate, driven, and committed cricketer he's always been. And that is what makes him a legend.


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