**Virat Kohli: The King of Cricket – Career, Team, and 5 Most Shocking Moments**
**Let's Begin**
Virat Kohli, widely regarded as the "King of Cricket," is one of the best batters of all time. His aggressive playing style, unrivaled consistency, and leadership qualities have made him a global icon. From leading the Indian cricket team to smashing many records, Kohli’s path is nothing short of incredible.
In this blog, we’ll explore: - Virat Kohli’s career and his position in the Indian cricket team - How many players are in the Indian cricket squad?
- **The 5 most memorable and startling moments of Kohli’s career**
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## **Virat Kohli’s Cricket Career & Team**
### **Teams He Represents** Virat Kohli plays for: - **India (National Team)** – Captain (previously) and top-order batsman - **Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB)** – IPL franchise (since 2008) - **Delhi** – Domestic cricket
### **Indian Cricket Team: How Many Players? **
The Indian national cricket team comprises of **15 players** in limited-overs (ODIs & T20Is) and **16-18 players** in Test matches. The roster includes batters, bowlers, all-rounders, and wicketkeepers, with regular changes dependent on form and fitness.
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## **5 Most Memorable & Shocking Moments in Virat Kohli’s Career**
### **1. 2014 England Tour: The Rise of a Champion (Aggressive Century at Adelaide)** **Why It Was Shocking? **
After a poor 2014 England trip (averaging just 13.40 in Tests), critics criticized Kohli’s abilities against swing bowling. However, in the **first Test in Adelaide (2014)**, he hushed naysayers with a **141-run knock** in the second innings, almost pulling off an impossible chase.
**Impact:**
- Proved his mental strength and versatility - Marked the beginning of his domination in abroad Tests
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### **2. 2016 IPL: The Record-Breaking 973-Run Season** **Why It Was Unforgettable? ** In **IPL 2016**, Kohli enjoyed a dream season:
- **973 runs** (most in a single IPL season)
- **4 centuries** (most by any player in one season)
- **Strike rate of 152**
**Shocking Moment:** Despite his heroics, RCB lost the final to Sunrisers Hyderabad.
**Impact:**
- Cemented his position as the top T20 batter - Showcased his ability to dominate under duress
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### **3. 2019 World Cup: The Run-Out Heard Around the World (India vs. New Zealand)** **Why It Was Heartbreaking? ** In the **2019 World Cup semi-final**, India was chasing 240 against New Zealand. Kohli was out early, but MS Dhoni and Ravindra Jadeja produced a fightback.
**The Shocking Moment:** - **Dhoni’s run-out by Martin Guptill** destroyed India’s hopes - Kohli’s emotional response (tears in the dressing room) went viral
**Impact:**
- India’s withdrawal triggered arguments about team selection - Kohli’s leadership was questioned, leading to changes in the team
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### **4. 2020: Stepping Down as RCB Captain After 8 Seasons** **Why It Was Unexpected?**
Kohli had been RCB’s captain since **2013**, but in **2020**, he declared he will step out after **IPL 2021**.
**Reasons Behind the Decision:** - No IPL championship despite his individual prowess - Wanted to focus on batting and national obligations
**Impact:**
- Fans were emotional, since Kohli was linked with RCB
- Marked the conclusion of an era in IPL history
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### **5. 2022: Kohli’s Century Drought & The Emotional Comeback (Asia Cup vs. Afghanistan)** **Why It Was Dramatic? ** From **November 2019 to September 2022**, Kohli spent **1,020 days** without an international century. Critics questioned his form, and he even took a **mental health break**.
**The Shocking Comeback:** - **September 2022 (Asia Cup versus Afghanistan):** Kohli hit **122* off 61 balls**, breaking his drought in style - Tears of relief after reaching the century
**Impact:**
- Proved that form is transient, class is permanent - Reinforced his status as India’s batting mainstay
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## **Conclusion: The Legacy of Virat Kohli**
Virat Kohli’s career has been a rollercoaster—filled with record-breaking highs and surprising lows. From his **2014 redemption** to the **2022 century comeback**, he has exhibited resilience that distinguishes a real champion.
Whether you adore him or condemn him, one thing is certain: **Virat Kohli is cricket’s modern-day legend**, and his journey is far from done.
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