Virat Kohli Turns 36: Celebrating with Family in India
Indian cricket legend Virat Kohli celebrates his 36th birthday today, marking another significant milestone in a career that has seen him evolve into one of the most iconic figures in the sport. As the face of Indian cricket, Kohli has enjoyed a year of triumphs, including India’s World Cup victory in June. However, with age catching up, Kohli is fully aware that the twilight years of his career are rapidly approaching.
Although 2024 has been a relatively quiet year for Kohli in terms of form, the cricketing world still holds its breath for his next big innings. Apart from his stellar run in the Indian Premier League (IPL) where he won the Orange Cap, Kohli has played only 18 international matches in 2024—comprising six Tests, three One Day Internationals (ODIs), and nine T20Is. Despite a modest tally of 488 runs, Kohli’s contribution to the team remains invaluable, and there is a growing sense that a resurgence is imminent, particularly as India prepares for the upcoming Test series in Australia.
Kohli’s Decision to Stay in India
Despite rumors suggesting that he had settled in London, Kohli chose to stay in India to celebrate his birthday with family and loved ones. His wife, Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma, returned to India in September, and Kohli followed suit, staying focused on his preparations for India’s home Test series against Bangladesh and New Zealand. Although India faced a 3-0 sweep at the hands of New Zealand in the recent series, Kohli is determined to turn the page and emerge stronger.
A Year of Mixed Performances for Kohli
Kohli’s 2024 has been a mixed bag. While his IPL performances were outstanding, his international form has not matched his usual high standards. In 18 international matches, Kohli has managed only a handful of significant scores, including two Test half-centuries, the most recent coming in January 2024. Despite these setbacks, Kohli remains one of India’s most cherished cricketing icons, much like the legends who preceded him—MS Dhoni and Sachin Tendulkar. His ability to inspire and motivate millions of fans remains undiminished.
India’s cricketing future rests heavily on the shoulders of their senior players, and Kohli, at 36, faces mounting pressure to recapture his best form. With younger players knocking on the door, Kohli’s place in the team is under scrutiny, although his fitness levels and experience ensure that he will be given every chance to prove himself.
The Australia Series: A Crucial Test for Kohli
Looking ahead, the upcoming three-match Test series in Australia will be one of the most important challenges of Kohli’s career. Kohli has a remarkable record in Australia, amassing over 2000 runs in 25 Tests at an impressive average of 47.49, including eight centuries—five of which came on Australian soil. Missing most of the previous tour, Kohli knows that this may be his final opportunity to take on Australia in their own backyard, and the prospect of claiming the Border-Gavaskar Trophy will serve as extra motivation.
Australia’s fast, bouncy pitches present a unique challenge for Kohli, whose strength has traditionally been on spin-friendly Indian tracks. However, with Australia’s wickets offering more bounce and pace, Kohli is expected to have the freedom to play his attacking game, something he thrives on. This shift in conditions could be just what he needs to rekindle his run-scoring form.
The Turning Point: A Critical Juncture in Kohli’s Career
Kohli’s journey is reminiscent of his earlier days in the Test arena. In 2012, following a difficult 2011 season, Kohli was at a career crossroads. Having struggled in the West Indies and early Tests in Australia, Kohli faced mounting criticism, with some even calling for his removal from the team. But captain MS Dhoni, seeing Kohli’s potential, gave him the time and trust he needed. Kohli responded with a defining performance at the WACA in Perth, where he scored a vital 75 and showed the confidence that would propel him to greatness.
Now, more than a decade later, Kohli finds himself in a similar position, but this time as one of the senior members of the squad. The pressure to perform is immense, especially as younger players like Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant continue to make their mark. Kohli, however, remains a crucial part of India’s plans, and his experience could prove vital in the upcoming series against Australia.
Kohli’s Legacy and the Road Ahead
As Virat Kohli turns 36, his legacy in Indian cricket is firmly established, known for his aggressive batting and leadership. But with age advancing, the question remains: can he rediscover the brilliance that once made him a global cricketing force?
The answer may lie in his performance during the upcoming series in Australia. A strong showing could not only help India win a historic third consecutive Border-Gavaskar Trophy but also reaffirm Kohli’s status as the “King” of Indian cricket.
As he enters the twilight of his career, all eyes will be on Kohli to recapture his former glory and lead India to new heights. With his unmatched work ethic, fitness, and drive, Kohli remains determined to prove he still has what it takes.
