Virat Kohli burst onto the international stage in 2008, not only as a talented young batsman but also as a lively fielder who infused the game with unparalleled passion. His aggressive catching, rapid reflexes, and dedication to saving every available run made him a priceless commodity for the Indian team. But what really made Kohli stand out was his contagious enthusiasm on the field and his insatiable appetite for victory.
Seventeen years on, at the age of 36, Kohli is still a force to be reckoned with as a batter and as a livewire in the field. His unbreakable passion is reflected the way in which he gets up the bowlers, puts his body in front to cut off runs, and celebrates a wicket with unbridled passion. Interviewing the ICC, Kohli explained the reason behind his over-the-top celebrations, underlining his abiding passion for winning.
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“For me, to go out in the field is itself a pleasure, and you play to win. That’s what playing is all about. So each wicket that falls brings us closer to winning, and that’s the biggest thing. In a team sport, you try hard along with 10 other guys to get there, and I like to enjoy and cherish each moment that brings us closer to there,” Virat Kohli clarified.
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Although Kohli got off to a wobbly start in the Champions Trophy 2025, being unable to cash in on his starts in the opener against Bangladesh, he silenced his critics in style with a match-winning ton against Pakistan. In India’s last group match against New Zealand, he was cheaply dismissed after an absolute catch by Glenn Phillips at backward point.
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With India set to take on Australia in the semi-final on March 4 in Dubai, Kohli will be the key to their batting performance. His ODI performance against the Aussies is second to none—2,367 runs from 49 matches at 53.79 with eight centuries and 14 half-centuries. With his tendency to perform under pressure in high-stakes games, the Men in Yellow will not want a vintage Kohli masterclass in the knockout game.
