Virat Kohli: Difference between revisions

| image = The President, Shri Pranab Mukherjee presenting the Padma Shri Award to Shri Virat Kohli, at a Civil Investiture Ceremony, at Rashtrapati Bhavan, in New Delhi on March 30, 2017 (cropped).jpg

| caption = Kohli in 2017

| lastodidate        = 27 July

| lastodiagainst    = West Indies

| matches2 = 275

| runs2 = 12,898

| bat avg2 = 57.32

| catches/stumpings2 = 142/–

| date = 20 July 2023   

'''Virat Kohli''' ({{IPA-hi|ʋɪˈɾɑːʈ ˈkoːɦli|3=Virat Kohli.ogg}}; born 5 November 1988) is an Indian [[Cricket|international cricketer]] and the former captain of the [[India national cricket team|Indian national cricket team]]. Widely regarded as one of the greatest batsmen in the history of the sport,<ref name="indiatoday.intoday.in" /> he plays for [[Royal Challengers Bangalore]] in the [[Indian Premier League|IPL]] and [[Delhi cricket team|Delhi]] in domestic cricket. Kohli holds numerous records in his career which includes scoring most runs in [[Twenty20 International|T20 internationals]] and IPL, fastest to reach 10,000 [[One Day International|ODI]] runs. In 2020, the [[International Cricket Council]] named him the [[ICC Awards of the Decade|male cricketer of the decade]]. Kohli has also contributed to India's successes, including winning the [[2011 Cricket World Cup|2011 World Cup]] and the [[2013 ICC Champions Trophy|2013 Champions trophy]]. He is among the only four Indian cricketers who has played 500 matches for India.<ref>{{Cite news |title=Virat Kohli plays 500th international game, becomes 4th Indian to reach the milestone |work=[[CricNerds]] |url=https://cricnerds.com/cricket-news/virat-kohli-500-international-games/}}</ref>

On the 18th of February, 2006, Kohli made his debut in [[List A|List A cricket]], playing against [[Services cricket team|Services]] in the [[Ranji One-day Trophy|Ranji One-Day Trophy]], but he did not have the opportunity to bat during the match.<ref>{{cite web |title=Delhi v Services in 2005/06 |url=https://cricketarchive.com/Archive/Scorecards/84/84988.html |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20140602200130/http://cricketarchive.com/Archive/Scorecards/84/84988.html |archivedate=2 June 2014 |accessdate=1 June 2014 |publisher=[[CricketArchive]]}}</ref> In 2006, Kohli had garnered enough attention to earn a spot in the state senior team. Subsequently, he made his [[First-class cricket|first-class]] debut on the 23rd of November, 2006, during the opening match of the [[Ranji Trophy]] season against [[Tamil Nadu cricket team|Tamil Nadu]]. However, his debut innings was a brief one, as he was dismissed after scoring ten runs.{{Sfn|Lokapally|2016|p=42}} In a sequence of three matches, Kohli failed to score a fifty, leading his coaches to provide him with counselling. In the subsequent match against former champions, [[Karnataka cricket team|Karnataka]], Delhi found themselves trailing with a score of 130/5, with Kohli remaining unbeaten on 40 at the end of the day's play. That very night, Kohli's father passed away at 3:54&nbsp;a.m. Despite the heart-wrenching news, Kohli returned to the match and continued to bat and scored 90 runs before he was dismissed.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Hoult |first=Nick |date=2018-07-29 |title=The making of Virat Kohli: 'The day after his father died, he made 90' |language=en-GB |work=[[The Daily Telegraph|The Telegraph]] |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/cricket/2018/07/29/making-virat-kohli-day-father-died-made-90/ |url-access=subscription |access-date=2023-01-02 |issn=0307-1235}}</ref> The team's coach, [[Chetan Chauhan]] was impressed by Kohli's resolute determination and unwavering attitude in the face of adversity. [[Venkatesh Prasad]] also lauded his crucial knock, which was executed in the midst of an emotional upheaval.<ref name=":5">{{cite web |last=G. S. |first=Vivek |date=19 December 2006 |title=Father dead, he bats to save Delhi |url=http://archive.indianexpress.com/news/father-dead-he-bats-to-save-delhi/18988/0 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200106195301/http://archive.indianexpress.com/news/father-dead-he-bats-to-save-delhi/18988/0 |archive-date=1 June 2020 |access-date=28 September 2021 |website=[[The Indian Express]]}}</ref> Following his dismissal, Kohli immediately attended his father's funeral. His innings, however, proved to be crucial for Delhi as they were able to avoid the [[follow-on]]. The team's captain, [[Mithun Manhas]], praised Kohli for his performance, acknowledging its pivotal role in the team's success.<ref name=":5" />

Kohli's foray into [[Twenty20|T20]] cricket took place in April 2007, during the [[Inter-State T20 Championship]], where he emerged as the top run-getter for his team with a tally of 179 runs at an average of 35.80.<ref>{{cite web |title=Inter State Twenty-20 Tournament 2006/07 |url=https://cricketarchive.com/Archive/Events/6/Inter_State_Twenty-20_Tournament_2006-07/Delhi_Batting.html |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140602200106/http://cricketarchive.com/Archive/Events/6/Inter_State_Twenty-20_Tournament_2006-07/Delhi_Batting.html |archive-date=2 June 2014 |access-date=1 June 2014 |publisher=[[CricketArchive]]}}</ref> In September 2008, Kohli played in [[Nissar Trophy]] against [[Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited cricket team|SNGPL]] (reigning champions of the of [[Quaid-i-Azam Trophy]] from [[Pakistan]]). He emerged as the leading scorer for Delhi in both innings, registering 52 runs in the first innings and a towering 197 in the second. The match ultimately ended in a [[Draw (cricket)|draw]], SNGPL being declared the victors due to their lead in first innings.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Waris |first=Sarah |date=2022-09-17 |title=Recalling Nissar Trophy, The Forgotten India-Pakistan Red-Ball Rivalry Of The 2000s |url=https://wisden.com/stories/recalling-nissar-trophy-the-forgotten-india-pakistan-kohli-rahane-malik-red-ball-rivalry-of-the-2000s |access-date=2023-02-07 |website=[[Wisden]] |language=en-GB}}</ref> In the [[2009–10 Ranji Trophy]] season, Kohli returned to domestic cricket. During a match against [[Maharashtra cricket team|Maharastra]], he opened the batting and scored 67 runs, helping Delhi to secure the bonus point required for victory.<ref>{{Cite web |date=11 Dec 2009 |title=Delhi keep quarters hopes alive |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/delhi-keep-quarter-final-hopes-alive-438975 |access-date=2013-03-08 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |language=en}}</ref> Kohli's performance reinvigorated the competitive spirit of the domestic cricket circuit. [[Ashish Nehra]] observed his growth over time and shared his thoughts:{{sfn|Lokapally|2016|page=138}}

In August 2008, Kohli was selected for inclusion in the ODl squad for the [[Indian cricket team in Sri Lanka in 2008|tour of Sri Lanka]] and the [[2009 ICC Champions Trophy|Champions Trophy]] in Pakistan. Prior to the Sri Lankan tour, Kohli had limited experience, with only eight [[List A]] matches under his belt.<ref>{{cite web |title=List A Matches played by Virat Kohli |url=https://cricketarchive.com/Archive/Players/101/101095/List_A_Matches.html |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150203152149/http://cricketarchive.com/Archive/Players/101/101095/List_A_Matches.html |archive-date=3 February 2015 |access-date=3 February 2015 |publisher=[[CricketArchive]]}}</ref> So, his selection was considered a "surprise call-up".<ref>{{cite web |date=7 August 2008 |title=Kohli gets surprise call-up |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/kohli-gets-surprise-call-up-363942 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171023120420/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/story/363942.html |archive-date=23 October 2017 |access-date=3 February 2015 |website=[[ESPN Cricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> During the Sri Lankan tour, as both first-choice openers [[Sachin Tendulkar]] and [[Virender Sehwag]], were unable to play due to injury, Kohli was required to fill the role of makeshift opener throughout the series.<ref>{{Cite web |date=18 August 2020 |title=From ODI debut in 2008 to being No. 1 batsman: Virat Kohli completes 12 years in int'l cricket |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/sports/cricket/bcci-shares-captain-virat-kohlis-nostalgic-moments-see-pic-4802668/ |access-date=30 September 2021 |website=[[The Indian Express]] |language=en}}</ref> On 18 August 2008, Kohli made his international debut at the age of 19 in the first ODI of the tour, where he was dismissed for 12 runs, caught dead in front by an incutter from [[Nuwan Kulasekara]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Watch: Virat Kohli opens the batting on his ODI debut |url=https://wisden.com/stories/videos/watch-virat-kohli-opens-the-batting-on-his-odi-debut-for-india |url-status=live |website=[[Wisden]]|date=21 May 2021 }}</ref> However, in the fourth match of the series, Kohli achieved his inaugural half century in the ODl format, with a total of fifty-four runs scored.<ref name="odiinnlist">{{cite web |title=Statistics / Statsguru / V Kohli / One-Day Internationals |url=http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/player/253802.html?class=2;template=results;type=batting;view=innings |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160422065347/http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/player/253802.html?class=2;template=results;type=batting;view=innings |archive-date=22 April 2016 |access-date=8 October 2021 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]]}}</ref>

In July–August 2009, Kohli was selected in the four-team Emerging Players Tournament, held in Australia. He was selected to open the innings for the Indian Emerging Players team in the tournament, and he went on to have a standout performance. Kohli finished as the tournament's leading run-scorer, with a total of 398 runs from seven matches, at an average of 66.33. He was particularly impressive in the final match, where he scored 104 runs off 102 balls against the South Africa Emerging Players team in [[Brisbane]]. His strong performance helped lead his team to a 17-run victory and the tournament title.<ref>{{cite web |title=Emerging Players Tournament, 2009 / Records / Most runs |url=http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/records/batting/most_runs_career.html?id=5116;type=tournament |url-status=live |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20171023121623/http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/records/batting/most_runs_career.html?id=5116;type=tournament |archivedate=23 October 2017 |accessdate=13 March 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=1 Aug 2009 |title=Kohli guides India to Emerging Players Tournament title |work=[[The Times Of India]] |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/new-zealand-in-india-2016/top-stories/kohli-guides-india-to-emerging-players-tournament-title/articleshow/4845589.cms}}</ref> At the conclusion of the tournament, [[Kris Srikkanth]], the Chairman of the [[India national cricket team selectors|Indian national selection committee]], expressed his admiration for Kohli's performance during the tournament. Srikkanth stated, "I must say, opener Virat Kohli was outstanding. Some of the shots he played spoke about his ability."<ref>{{cite web |date=4 August 2009 |title=Srikkanth pleased with depth in Indian cricket |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/srikkanth-pleased-with-depth-in-indian-cricket-417786 |url-status=live |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924160537/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/story/417786.html |archivedate=24 September 2015 |accessdate=13 March 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> Kohli himself has stated that this tournament was a "turning point" in his career.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mathur |first=Amrit |date=21 Sep 2021 |title=King Kohli to commoner, the turning point for Virat |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/cricket/king-kohli-to-commoner-the-turning-point-for-virat-101632233392395.html |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |website=[[Hindustan Times]]}}</ref>

In August 2009, Kohli returned to the national team after recovering from a minor shoulder injury, replacing the injured [[Gautam Gambhir]] in the Indian squad for the [[Tri-Series in Sri Lanka in 2009|tri-series in Sri Lanka]].<ref>{{cite web |date=10 September 2009 |title=Kohli to replace injured Gambhir in tri-series |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/kohli-to-replace-injured-gambhir-in-tri-series-424397 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924160541/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/story/424397.html |archive-date=24 September 2015 |access-date=29 September 2021 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]]}}</ref> He was also utilized as a middle order batsman in the [[2009 ICC Champions Trophy]] due to an injury sustained by [[Yuvraj Singh]].<ref>{{Cite news |date=15 June 2019 |title=When Virat Kohli thought he was finished after 2009 Champions Trophy match vs Pakistan |work=[[India Today]] |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/sports/cricket-world-cup-2019/story/virat-kohli-most-tense-moment-india-vs-pakistan-2009-champions-trophy-1549624-2019-06-15}}</ref> In December of that same year, he was included in the team for [[Sri Lankan cricket team in India in 2009–10|home ODI series against Sri Lanka]]  and scored 27<ref>{{Cite web |title=Full Scorecard of India vs Sri Lanka 1st ODI 2009/10 – Score Report {{!}} ESPNcricinfo.com |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/sri-lanka-tour-of-india-2009-10-428635/india-vs-sri-lanka-1st-odi-430886/full-scorecard |access-date=30 September 2021 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |language=en}}</ref> and 54 in the first two ODIs before making way for Yuvraj, who regained fitness for the third ODI. However, due to the reoccurrence of a finger injury, Yuvraj was ruled out indefinitely,<ref>{{Cite web|date=22 December 2009|title=Yuvraj Singh ruled out of series|url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/yuvraj-singh-ruled-out-of-series-440728|url-status=live|access-date=29 September 2021|website=[[ESPNcricinfo]]|language=en}}</ref> which led to Kohli's return to the team in the fourth ODI at [[Kolkata]]. In that match, Kohli scored his maiden ODI century–107 off 114 balls–while sharing a 224-run partnership for the third wicket with Gambhir. As a result of this performance, India won by seven wickets and sealed the series 3–1.<ref name=":7">{{cite news |title=Gautam Gambhir & Virat Kohli's centuries seal India win |publisher=[[BBC Sport]] |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/cricket/8430324.stm |url-status=live |access-date=1 June 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150524064319/http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport2/hi/cricket/8430324.stm |archive-date=24 May 2015}}</ref>{{Efn|In recognition of this achievement, [[Gautam Gambhir]], who scored 150 not out in the match and received the player of the match award, graciously passed on the award to Kohli.|group=|name=}}

In January 2010, Kohli was given the opportunity in [[Tri-Series in Bangladesh in 2009–10|tri-nation ODI tournament in Bangladesh]], as Tendulkar was rested for the event.<ref>{{Cite web |date=25 December 2009 |title=Tendulkar opts out of Bangladesh tri-series |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/tendulkar-opts-out-of-bangladesh-tri-series-441139 |url-status=live |access-date=29 September 2021 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |language=en}}</ref> During the series, Kohli became just the third Indian player to score two ODI centuries before the age of 22.<ref>{{cite web |last=Premachandran |first=Dileep |date=11 January 2010 |title=Kohli cracks unbeaten ton as India ease home |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/tri-nation-tournament-in-bangladesh-2009-10-434245/bangladesh-vs-india-6th-match-434263/match-report |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924160549/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/story/443456.html |archive-date=24 September 2015 |access-date=18 April 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> He was widely hailed for his performances, and ultimately emerged as the leading run-scorer of the series, with 275 runs from five innings at an impressive average of 91.66.<ref>{{cite web |title=Tri-Nation Tournament in Bangladesh, 2009/10 / Records / Most runs |url=http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/records/batting/most_runs_career.html?id=5598;type=tournament |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161122191849/http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/records/batting/most_runs_career.html?id=5598;type=tournament |archive-date=22 November 2016 |access-date=18 April 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> Kohli's success on the field belies the stereotype of him as a brash and arrogant player. In fact, Indian captain [[MS Dhoni]] has noted that "he has grabbed his chances" and that "he has matured now." Dhoni went on to say that "To us, he comes as a 'humble guy'. He might come across different to the world."<ref>{{cite web |last=Veera |first=Sriram |date=7 January 2010 |title=Kohli comes of age |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/virat-kohli-comes-of-age-443003 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924160547/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/story/443003.html |archive-date=24 September 2015 |access-date=18 April 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref>[[File:Virat Kohli Batting.jpg|235x235px|thumb|Kohli batting in an ODI against [[New Zealand national cricket team|New Zealand]] in December 2010]] Kohli's initial foray into leadership on an international level occurred in May–June 2010, when he was appointed as vice-captain for the [[2010 Zimbabwe Tri-Nation Series|tri-series against Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe]] in [[Zimbabwe]]. This appointment came as many more established players were rested for the tour. However, in the first match, Kohli was dismissed on a [[diamond duck]], a rare and unusual mode of dismissal.<ref>{{Cite web |date=28 May 2010 |title=RESULT 1st Match, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe Triangular Series |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/zimbabwe-triangular-series-2010-452140/zimbabwe-vs-india-1st-match-452146/full-scorecard |website=[[ESPN Cricinfo]]}}</ref> Despite this early setback, Kohli managed to become the fastest Indian batsman at the time to reach 1,000 runs in ODI cricket, achieving this milestone in 26 innings.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Chhabria |first=Vinay |date=18 Jan 2023 |title=5 fastest Indian cricketers to score 1000 runs in ODI cricket |url=https://www.sportskeeda.com/cricket/5-fastest-indian-cricketers-score-1000-runs-odi-cricket |url-status=live |access-date=27 Jan 2023 |website=sportskeeda}}</ref> Kohli also made his [[Twenty20 International|International T20]] debut against [[Zimbabwe national cricket team|Zimbabwe]] at [[Harare]], where he scored an unbeaten 26.<ref>{{Cite web |date=12 Jun 2022 |title=On this day in 2010, Virat made his T20I debut against Zimbabwe |url=https://www.dtnext.in/sports/2022/06/12/on-this-day-in-2010-virat-kohli-made-his-t20i-debut-against-zimbabwe |access-date=27 Jan 2023 |website=[[DT Next]]}}</ref> Later that month, during the [[2010 Asia Cup]], Kohli was included in the Indian team and was given the role of batting at number 3. However, his struggles with form started as he scored a total of 67 runs at an average of 16.75.<ref>{{cite web |title=Asia Cup, 2010 / Records / Most runs |url=http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/records/batting/most_runs_career.html?id=5477;type=tournament |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150917135628/http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/records/batting/most_runs_career.html?id=5477;type=tournament |archive-date=17 September 2015 |access-date=20 April 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> This poor form was also reflected in the [[Sri Lanka Triangular Series in 2010|tri-series against Sri Lanka and New Zealand]] in [[Sri Lanka]] where his average was a mere 15.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Sri Lanka Triangular Series, 2010 Cricket Team Records & Stats {{!}} ESPNcricinfo.com |url=https://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/records/batting/most_runs_career.html?id=5859&type=tournament |access-date=1 October 2021 |website=[[ESPN Cricinfo]]}}</ref>

Despite his recent struggles with form, Kohli was retained in the Indian ODI squad for a [[Australian cricket team in India in 2010–11#ODI series|three-match series]] against [[Australia national cricket team|Australia]] in October. In the only completed match of the series, held at [[Visakhapatnam]], Kohli scored a century, earning him the man of the match award. He candidly acknowledged that he was under significant pressure to maintain his place in the team, given his previous failures in the preceding series.<ref>{{cite web |date=21 October 2010 |title=Kohli felt under pressure to keep his place |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/india-v-australia-2nd-odi-visakhapatnam-virat-kohli-felt-under-pressure-to-keep-his-odi-place-482917 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150604160407/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/story/482917.html |archive-date=4 June 2015 |access-date=20 April 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> During the home [[New Zealand cricket team in India in 2010–11|ODI series against New Zealand]], Kohli scored another match-winning century in the first match, marking his fourth ODI hundred and second in succession.<ref>{{Cite web |date=28 Nov 2010 |title=Kohli continues batting consistently |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/kohli-continues-batting-consistently-489504 |url-status=live |website=[[ESPN Cricinfo]]}}</ref> The Indian team emerged victorious with a 5–0 [[Whitewash (sport)#Cricket|whitewash]] over [[New Zealand]], and Kohli's exceptional performances in the series solidified his position in the ODI team and made him a strong candidate for a spot in India's World Cup squad.<ref>{{cite web |date=3 December 2010 |title=Kohli brings versatility to India |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/harsha-bhogle-kohli-brings-versatility-to-india-490146 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150602065143/http://www.espncricinfo.com/magazine/content/story/490146.html |archive-date=2 June 2015 |access-date=20 April 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=17 December 2010 |title=Kohli and his ODI exploits |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/the-numbers-game-kohli-and-his-odi-exploits-492907 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150602065153/http://www.espncricinfo.com/magazine/content/story/492907.html |archive-date=2 June 2015 |access-date=20 April 2015 |publisher=ESPN cricinfo}}</ref> He was India's leading run-scorer in ODIs in 2010, accumulating 995 runs from 25 matches at an average of 47.38, including three centuries and seven half-centuries.<ref name="stat2010">{{Cite web|title=2010 – India Cricket Team Records & Stats|url=https://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/records/batting/most_runs_career.html?class=2&id=2010&team=6&type=year|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130728165626/http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/records/batting/most_runs_career.html?class=2;id=2010;team=6;type=year|archive-date=28 July 2013|access-date=30 September 2021|website=[[ESPNcricinfo]]}}</ref>

In October 2011, Kohli was the leading run scorer of the [[English cricket team in India in 2011–12|five-match home ODI series]] against England which India won 5–0. He scored a total of 270 runs across five matches at an average of 90. This included unbeaten knock of 112 from 98 balls at [[Feroz Shah Kotla|Delhi]], where he put on an unbroken 209 run partnership with Gambhir;<ref name="mom6">{{cite web |date=17 Oct 2011 |title=England tour of India, 2nd ODI: India v England at Delhi |url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/match/521219.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131119121133/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/match/521219.html |archive-date=19 November 2013 |access-date=28 April 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> followed by innings of 86 at [[Wankhede Stadium|Mumbai]], both the knocks came in successful run chases.<ref>{{Cite web|title=England in India ODI Series, 2011/12 Cricket Team Records & Stats|url=https://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/records/batting/most_runs_career.html?id=6683&type=series|url-status=live|access-date=1 October 2021|website=[[ESPNcricinfo]]}}</ref> Owing to his ODI success, Kohli was included in the Test squad to [[West Indian cricket team in India in 2011–12|face the West Indies]] in November. He was selected in the final match of the series at Mumbai in which he scored a pair of fifties.<ref>{{cite web |last=S |first=Aga |date=25 November 2011 |title=Mental toughness guides Virat Kohli |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/india-v-west-indies-3rd-test-mumbai-mental-toughness-guides-virat-kohli-542088 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150604160358/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/story/542088.html |archive-date=4 June 2015 |access-date=28 April 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]]}}</ref> India won the subsequent ODI series 4–1 in which Kohli managed to accumulate 243 runs at 60.75.<ref>{{cite web|title=Records / West Indies in India ODI Series, 2011/12 / Most runs|url=http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/records/batting/most_runs_career.html?id=6938;type=series|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150704124133/http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/records/batting/most_runs_career.html?id=6938%3Btype%3Dseries|archive-date=4 July 2015|access-date=28 April 2015|website=[[ESPNcricinfo]]}}</ref> During the series, Kohli scored his eighth ODI century and his second at [[Dr. Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy International Cricket Stadium|Visakhapatnam]], where he made 117 off 123 balls in India's run chase of 270.<ref name="mom7">{{cite web|title=West Indies tour of India, 2nd ODI: India v West Indies at Visakhapatnam, 2 Dec 2011|url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/match/536930.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131116002025/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/match/536930.html|archive-date=16 November 2013|access-date=1 October 2021|website=[[ESPNcricinfo]]}}</ref> A knock which raised his reputation as "an expert of the chase".<ref>{{cite web |last=Binoy |first=George |date=2 December 2011 |title=Kohli and Rohit overpower West Indies |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/west-indies-tour-of-india-2011-12-535995/india-vs-west-indies-2nd-odi-536930/match-report |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150604160311/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/story/543325.html |archive-date=4 June 2015 |access-date=28 April 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]]}}</ref> Kohli ended up as the leading run-getter in ODIs for the year 2011, with 1381 runs from 34 matches at 47.62 including four centuries and eight fifties.<ref name="stat2011">{{cite web |title=Records / 2011 / One-Day Internationals / Most runs |url=http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/records/batting/most_runs_career.html?class=2;id=2011;type=year |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150917000448/http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/records/batting/most_runs_career.html?class=2;id=2011;type=year |archive-date=17 September 2015 |access-date=29 April 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref>

During [[Indian cricket team in Australia in 2011–12|tour of Australia]] in December 2011, Kohli failed to go past 25 in the first two Tests, as his defensive technique was exposed.<ref>{{cite web |last=Bal |first=Sambit |date=29 December 2011 |title=India's batting woes abroad continue |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/australia-v-india-1st-test-india-s-batting-woes-abroad-continue-547340 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150604160314/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/story/547340.html |archive-date=4 June 2015 |access-date=29 April 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]]}}</ref> While fielding on the boundary during the second day of the second match at [[Sydney Cricket Ground|Sydney]], he gestured to the crowd with his [[the finger|middle finger]] for which he was fined 50% of his match fee by the [[match referee]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Davies |first=Will |date=5 Jan 2012 |title=India's Kohli Fined for Misconduct in Sydney Test |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/BL-IRTB-13981 |access-date=2023-02-01 |website=[[The Wall Street Journal]] |language=en-US}}</ref> He top scored in each of India's innings in the third Test at [[WACA Ground|Perth]] with scores of 44 and 75, even as India got their second consecutive innings defeat.<ref>{{cite web |last=Brettig |first=Daniel |date=15 January 2012 |title=Australia demolish India by an innings to go up 3–0 |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/india-tour-of-australia-2011-12-518944/australia-vs-india-3rd-test-518952/match-report-3 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150604160351/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/story/549518.html |archive-date=4 June 2015 |access-date=29 April 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=29 December 2011|title=Full Scorecard of India vs Australia 3rd Test 2011/12 – Score Report|url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/india-tour-of-australia-2011-12-518944/australia-vs-india-3rd-test-518952/full-scorecard|url-status=live|access-date=2 October 2011|website=[[ESPNcricinfo]]|language=en}}</ref> In the fourth and final match at [[Adelaide Oval|Adelaide]], Kohli scored his maiden Test century, 116 runs in the first innings.<ref>{{cite web |last=Monga |first=Sidharth |date=26 January 2012 |title=Kohli pleased to perform despite verbal battle |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/australia-v-india-4th-test-adelaide-kohli-pleased-to-perform-despite-verbal-battle-551028 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150604160347/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/story/551028.html |archive-date=4 June 2015 |access-date=29 April 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]]}}</ref> India suffered a 0–4 whitewash and Kohli, India's top run-scorer in the series was described as "the lone bright spot in an otherwise nightmare visit for the tourists".<ref>{{cite web|last=Goraya|first=Raman|date=26 January 2012|title=Kohli stands tall on Australia's day|url=http://www.abc.net.au/news/2012-01-26/kohli-stands-tall-on-australia27s-day/3795350|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150518212750/http://www.abc.net.au/news/2012-01-26/kohli-stands-tall-on-australia27s-day/3795350|archive-date=18 May 2015|access-date=29 April 2015|work=[[ABC News (Australia)|ABC News]]}}</ref>

[[File:Virat Kohli 26 Feb 2012.jpg|270x270px|thumb|Kohli fielding during a [[2011–12 Commonwealth Bank Series|CB Series]] match against [[Australia national cricket team|Australia]] in February 2012|left]]Kohli was appointed the vice-captain for the [[2012 Asia Cup]] in Bangladesh on the back of his fine performances in Australia. Kohli was in fine form during the tournament, finishing as the leading run-scorer with 357 runs at an average of 119.<ref>{{cite web |title=Records / Asia Cup, 2011/12 / Most runs |url=http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/records/batting/most_runs_career.html?id=6730;type=tournament |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150714133204/http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/records/batting/most_runs_career.html?id=6730;type=tournament |archive-date=14 July 2015 |access-date=30 April 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> In the final group stage match against Pakistan, he scored his personal best of 183 from 148 balls, his 11th ODI century. He helped India to chase down 330, their highest successful ODI run chase at the time.<ref>{{Cite web |date=19 March 2012 |title=Kohli's Match-Winning Tons |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052702304724404577290870761611462 |url-status=live |website=[[The Wall Street Journal]]}}</ref> His knock was the highest individual score in Asia Cup history surpassing previous record of 144 by [[Younis Khan]] in 2004 and the joint second highest score along with Dhoni  in an ODI run-chase; also became the highest individual score against Pakistan in ODIs.<ref>{{cite web |last=Ramakrishnan |first=Madhusudhan |date=18 March 2012 |title=Kohli's mastery of chases |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/india-v-pakistan-asia-cup-mirpur-kohli-s-mastery-of-chases-557837 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150604160431/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/story/557837.html |archive-date=4 June 2015 |access-date=4 October 2021 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]]}}</ref> Kohli was awarded the man of the match in both the matches that India won,<ref name="mom9">{{cite web |date=13 Mar 2012 |title=Asia Cup, 2nd Match: India v Sri Lanka at Dhaka |url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/match/535795.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131116022505/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/match/535795.html |archive-date=16 November 2013 |access-date=30 April 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref><ref name=":10">{{cite web |last=Purohit |first=Abhishek |date=18 March 2012 |title=Kohli demolishes Pakistan in record chase |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/asia-cup-2011-12-524504/india-vs-pakistan-5th-match-535798/match-report |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150604160449/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/story/557744.html |archive-date=4 June 2015 |access-date=30 April 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]]}}</ref> nonetheless India could not progress to the final of the tournament.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Bangladesh thrash SL, put India out of Asia Cup final |url=https://www.rediff.com/cricket/report/asia-cup-2012-match-report-bagladesh-sri-lanka-mirpur/20120320.htm |access-date=5 October 2021 |website=[[Rediff]] |language=en}}</ref>

In July–August 2012, Kohli struck two centuries in the [[Indian cricket team in Sri Lanka in 2012|five-match ODI tour of Sri Lanka]] ,106 off 113 balls at Hambantota and 128* off 119 balls at Colombo, winning man of the match in both games.<ref name="mom11">{{cite web |date=21 Jul 2012 |title=India tour of Sri Lanka, 1st ODI: Sri Lanka v India at Hambantota |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/india-tour-of-sri-lanka-2012-564778/sri-lanka-vs-india-1st-odi-564781/full-scorecard |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131115231626/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/match/564781.html |archive-date=15 November 2013 |access-date=1 May 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref><ref name="mom12">{{cite web |date=31 Jul 2012 |title=India tour of Sri Lanka, 4th ODI: Sri Lanka v India at Colombo (RPS) |url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/match/564784.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131119110958/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/match/564784.html |archive-date=19 November 2013 |access-date=1 May 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> India won the series 4–1 and Kohli was named player of the series.<ref name="mos1">{{cite web |date=4 Aug 2012 |title=India tour of Sri Lanka, 5th ODI: Sri Lanka v India at Pallekele |url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/match/564785.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150521171741/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/match/564785.html |archive-date=21 May 2015 |access-date=1 May 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> In the one-off T20I that followed, he scored a 48 ball 68, his first T20I fifty, and yet again won the player of the series award.<ref name="imos1">{{cite web |date=7 Aug 2012 |title=India tour of Sri Lanka, Only T20I: Sri Lanka v India at Pallekele |url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/match/564786.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150418191629/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/match/564786.html |archive-date=18 April 2015 |access-date=1 May 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref>  He continued to be in good form during the [[2012 ICC World Twenty20]] in Sri Lanka, with 185 runs he was highest run-getter among Indian batsmen;<ref>{{cite web|title=ICC World Twenty20, 2012/13 / Records / Most runs|url=http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/records/batting/most_runs_career.html?id=6856;type=tournament|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150917000515/http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/records/batting/most_runs_career.html?id=6856;type=tournament|archive-date=17 September 2015|access-date=5 October 2021|website=[[ESPNcricinfo]]}}</ref> hitting two fifties during the tournament, against [[Afghanistan national cricket team|Afghanistan]] and [[Pakistan national cricket team|Pakistan]], winning man of the match for both his innings.<ref name="imom1">{{cite web |date=19 Sep 2012 |title=ICC World Twenty20, 3rd Match, Group A: Afghanistan v India at Colombo (RPS) |url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/match/533274.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150404163408/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/match/533274.html |archive-date=4 April 2015 |access-date=30 April 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref><ref name="imom2">{{cite web |date=30 Sep 2012 |title=ICC World Twenty20, 20th Match, Group 2: India v Pakistan at Colombo (RPS) |url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/match/533291.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150427044033/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/match/533291.html |archive-date=27 April 2015 |access-date=30 April 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> For his performances he was named in the ICC 'Team of the Tournament'.<ref>{{Cite web |date=8 Oct 2012 |title=Virat Kohli stars in World T20 Team of the Tournament |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/world-t20-2012/story/virat-kohli-stars-in-world-t20-team-of-the-tournament-118127-2012-10-07 |url-status=live |website=[[India Today]]}}</ref>

Kohli's Test form dipped during the first three matches of [[English cricket team in India in 2012–13|England's tour of India]], between October 2012 and January 2013, with a top score of 20 and England leading the series 2–1.<ref name="testinnlist" /> Overcoming his poor run of form, he scored a patient 103 from 295 balls in the last match.<ref name=":11">{{cite web |last=Monga |first=Sidharth |date=15 December 2012 |title=Kohli takes pride in 'learning innings' |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/virat-kohli-takes-pride-in-learning-innings-597259 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150604160327/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/story/597259.html |archive-date=4 June 2015 |access-date=3 May 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]]}}</ref> However, the match ended in a draw and England won their first Test series in India in 28 years.<ref>{{cite web |last=McGlashan |first=Andrew |date=17 December 2012 |title=England end 28-year wait for win in India |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/england-tour-of-india-2012-13-565792/india-vs-england-4th-test-565809/match-report-5 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150604160345/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/story/597420.html |archive-date=4 June 2015 |access-date=3 May 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> [[Pakistani cricket team in India in 2012–13|Against Pakistan]] in December 2012, Kohli averaged 18 in the T20Is<ref>{{cite web |title=Records / Pakistan in India T20I Series, 2012/13 – India / Batting and bowling averages |url=https://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/records/averages/batting_bowling_by_team.html?id=7818;team=6;type=series |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150917000616/http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/records/averages/batting_bowling_by_team.html?id=7818;team=6;type=series |archive-date=17 September 2015 |access-date=3 May 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> and 4.33 in the ODIs.<ref>{{cite web |title=Records / Pakistan in India ODI Series, 2012/13 – India / Batting and bowling averages |url=http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/records/averages/batting_bowling_by_team.html?id=7819;team=6;type=series |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150218174534/http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/records/averages/batting_bowling_by_team.html?id=7819;team=6;type=series |archive-date=18 February 2015 |access-date=3 May 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> Troubled by the fast bowlers, particularly [[Junaid Khan (cricketer)|Junaid Khan]] who dismissed him on all three occasions in the ODI series.<ref>{{cite web |title=Knew Virat Kohli would find it difficult to pick my length: Junaid Khan |url=http://sports.ndtv.com/india-vs-pakistan-2012/news/202306-knew-virat-kohli-would-find-it-difficult-to-pick-my-length-junaid-khan |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150518084657/http://sports.ndtv.com/india-vs-pakistan-2012/news/202306-knew-virat-kohli-would-find-it-difficult-to-pick-my-length-junaid-khan |archive-date=18 May 2015 |access-date=3 May 2015 |publisher=[[NDTV]]}}</ref> Kohli had a quiet ODI series against England, apart from a match-winning 77* in the third ODI<ref name="mom13">{{cite web |date=19 January 2013 |title=England tour of India, 3rd ODI: India v England at Ranchi |url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/match/565814.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150315160146/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/match/565814.html |archive-date=15 March 2015 |access-date=3 May 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> with a total of 155 runs at an average of 38.75.<ref>{{cite web|title=Records / England in India ODI Series, 2012/13 / Most runs|url=http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/records/batting/most_runs_career.html?id=7341;type=series|publisher=ESPN cricinfo|access-date=3 May 2015|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150917000604/http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/records/batting/most_runs_career.html?id=7341;type=series|archive-date=17 September 2015}}</ref> Kohli scored his fourth Test century (107) at Chennai in the first match of the [[Australian cricket team in India in 2012–13|home Test series against Australia]] in February 2013.<ref name="testinnlist" /> India completed a 4–0 series sweep, becoming the first team to whitewash Australia in more than four decades.<ref>{{cite web |last=S |first=Rajesh |date=24 March 2013 |title=Toss no advantage for Australia |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/india-v-australia-4th-test-stats-review-toss-no-advantage-for-australia-626612 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150604160439/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/story/626612.html |archive-date=4 June 2015 |access-date=4 May 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> Kohli averaged 56.80 in the series .<ref>{{cite web |title=Border-Gavaskar Trophy, 2012/13 / Records / Most runs |url=http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/records/batting/most_runs_career.html?id=7977;type=series |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150917000552/http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/records/batting/most_runs_career.html?id=7977;type=series |archive-date=17 September 2015 |access-date=4 May 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref>

In June 2013, Kohli featured in the [[2013 ICC Champions Trophy|ICC Champions Trophy]] in England which India won. He scored a 144 against Sri Lanka in warm-up match.<ref>{{cite web |date=1 Jun 2013 |title=ICC Champions Trophy Warm-up Matches, India v Sri Lanka at Birmingham |url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/match/634962.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150501151019/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/match/634962.html |archive-date=1 May 2015 |access-date=7 May 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> He scored moderately in India's group matches against South Africa, West Indies and Pakistan respectively.<ref name="odiinnlist" /> In sync India qualified for the semi-finals with an undefeated record.<ref>{{Cite web|title=ICC Champions Trophy, 2013 Cricket Team Records & Stats|url=https://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/records/team/match_results.html?id=7371&type=tournament|url-status=live|access-date=7 October 2021|website=[[ESPNcricinfo]]}}</ref> In the semi-final against Sri Lanka at Cardiff, he struck 58* in an eight-wicket win for India.<ref name="odiinnlist" /> The [[2013 ICC Champions Trophy Final|final]] between India and England at Birmingham was reduced to 20 overs after a rain delay. India batted first and Kohli top-scored with 43 from 34 ball, helping India reach 129/7 in 20 overs. India went on to secure a five run win and their second consecutive ICC ODI tournament victory.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2013-06-23 |title=India deny hosts England to claim Champions Trophy |url=https://www.cnn.com/2013/06/23/sport/cricket-champions-trophy-india-england/index.html |access-date=2014-12-14 |website=[[CNN]] |language=en}}</ref> Kohli was also named as part of the 'Team of the Tournament' by the ICC.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Davies |first=Will |title=Indians Dominate Champions Trophy 'Best XI' |url=http://blogs.wsj.com/indiarealtime/2013/06/25/indians-dominate-champions-trophy-best-xi/ |access-date=2019-02-19 |website=[[The Wall Street Journal]] |date=25 June 2013 |language=en-US}}</ref>

[[File:Virat Kohli batting 2013.jpg|211x211px|thumb|Kohli batting against [[South Africa national cricket team|South Africa]] in Cardiff during the [[2013 ICC Champions Trophy|Champions Trophy]] in June 2013]]Kohli stood in as the captain for the first ODI of the [[2013 West Indies Tri-Series|triangular series in the West Indies]] after Dhoni injured himself during the match; Kohli being named the captain for the remaining matches.<ref>{{cite web |date=July 2013 |title=Injured Dhoni ruled out of tri-series |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/injured-ms-dhoni-ruled-out-of-west-indies-tri-series-646695 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160919171615/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/story/646695.html |archive-date=19 September 2016 |access-date=10 May 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> In his second match as captain, Kohli scored his first century as captain, making 102 off 83 balls against the West Indies at Port of Spain in a bonus point win for India.<ref name="mom14">{{cite web |date=5 Jul 2013 |title=West Indies Tri-Nation Series, 4th Match: West Indies v India at Port of Spain |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/west-indies-tri-nation-series-2013-597920/west-indies-vs-india-4th-match-597926/full-scorecard |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131202183120/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/match/597926.html |archive-date=2 December 2013 |access-date=11 May 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=6 July 2013|title=Bonus-point relief for Kohli|url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/bonus-point-relief-for-virat-kohli-648199|url-status=live|access-date=8 October 2021|website=[[ESPNcricinfo]]|language=en}}</ref> Many senior players including Dhoni were rested for the [[Indian cricket team in Zimbabwe in 2013|five-match ODI tour of Zimbabwe]] in July 2013. Kohli was therefore appointed as captain for an entire series .<ref name=":12">{{cite web |last=Brickhill |first=Liam |date=23 July 2013 |title=Kohli praises young mates for successful transition |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/kohli-praises-young-mates-for-successful-transition-654539 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150604160131/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/story/654539.html |archive-date=4 June 2015 |access-date=11 May 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> In the first game of the series at Harare, he struck 115 runs from 108 balls, helping India chase down the target of 229 and winning the man of the match award.<ref name="mom15">{{cite web |date=24 July 2013 |title=Full Scorecard of Zimbabwe vs India 1st ODI 2013 – Score Report |url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/match/643665.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140228044758/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/match/643665.html |archive-date=28 February 2014 |access-date=11 May 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> India completed a 5–0 sweep of the series; their first in an away ODI series.<ref>{{cite web |last=Balachandran |first=Kanishkaa |date=3 August 2013 |title=Mishra's six sets up 5–0 sweep |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/india-tour-of-zimbabwe-2013-643657/zimbabwe-vs-india-5th-odi-643677/match-report |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150604160133/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/story/658057.html |archive-date=4 June 2015 |access-date=11 May 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref>

Kohli had a successful time with the bat in the [[Australian cricket team in India in 2013–14|seven-match ODI series]] against Australia. After top-scoring with 61 in the opening loss at Pune,<ref>{{Cite web|date=13 October 2013|title=Full Scorecard of Australia vs India 1st ODI 2013/14 – Score Report|url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/australia-tour-of-india-2013-14-647237/india-vs-australia-1st-odi-647249/full-scorecard|url-status=live|access-date=9 October 2021|website=[[ESPNcricinfo]]|language=en}}</ref> he struck the fastest century by an Indian in ODIs in the second match at Jaipur. Reaching the milestone in just 52 balls and putting up an unbroken 186 run partnership for second wicket with [[Rohit Sharma]] , that came in 17.2 overs.<ref>{{Cite news |last= |first= |date=2013-10-16 |title=Virat Kohli blasts India to victory against Australia in second ODI |language=en-GB |work=[[The Guardian]] |url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2013/oct/16/india-australia-second-odi-jaipur |access-date=2023-02-06 |issn=0261-3077}}</ref> Kohli's innings of 100* helped India chase down the target of 360 with more than six overs to spare. This chase was the [[List of One Day International cricket records#Highest run chases|second-highest successful run-chase]] in ODI cricket at the time while Kohli's knock became the fastest century against Australia and third fastest in a run chase.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2013-10-16 |title=India in second biggest run chase in one-day cricket history |url=https://www.cnn.com/2013/10/16/sport/cricket-indai-kohli-tendular/index.html |access-date=2016-12-16 |website=[[CNN]] |language=en}}</ref>  In the sixth ODI at Nagpur, he struck 115 off only 66 balls to help India successfully chase the target of 351 and level the series 2–2 .<ref name="mom16">{{cite web |date=30 October 2013 |title=Australia tour of India, 6th ODI: India v Australia at Nagpur, 30 Oct 2013 |url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/match/647259.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140218214638/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/match/647259.html |archive-date=18 February 2014 |access-date=11 May 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> He reached the triple-digit figure in 61 balls, making it the third fastest ODI century by an Indian batsman subsequently became the fastest batsman in the world to score 17 hundreds in ODI cricket.<ref>{{cite web |last1=S |first1=Rajesh |last2=Jayaraman |first2=Shiva |date=30 October 2013 |title=Kohli fastest to 17 ODI tons |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/kohli-fastest-to-17-odi-tons-684111 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150604160259/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/story/684111.html |archive-date=4 June 2015 |access-date=11 May 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> India clinched the series after winning the last match in which he was run out for a duck.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2 November 2013|title=Full Scorecard of India vs Australia 7th ODI 2013/14 – Score Report {{!}} ESPNcricinfo.com|url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/australia-tour-of-india-2013-14-647237/india-vs-australia-7th-odi-647261/full-scorecard|url-status=live|access-date=9 October 2021|website=[[ESPNcricinfo]]|language=en}}</ref> At the conclusion of the series, Kohli moved to the top position in the [[ICC Men's Player Rankings|ICC ODI batsmen rankings]] for the first time in his career.<ref name="ODI rankings">{{cite web |date=3 November 2013 |title=Kohli and Ajmal top ODI rankings |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/kohli-and-ajmal-top-odi-rankings-685413 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924133036/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci-icc/content/story/685413.html |archive-date=24 September 2015 |access-date=12 May 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref>

Kohli batted twice in the [[West Indian cricket team in India in 2013–14|two-match Test series]] against the West Indies, and had scores of 3 and 57 .<ref>{{Cite web|date=8 November 2013|title=Full Scorecard of West Indies vs India 1st Test 2013/14 – Score Report|url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/west-indies-tour-of-india-2013-14-668845/india-vs-west-indies-1st-test-676525/full-scorecard|url-status=live|access-date=11 October 2021|website=[[ESPNcricinfo]]|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=16 November 2013|title=Full Scorecard of West Indies vs India 2nd Test 2013/14 – Score Report|url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/west-indies-tour-of-india-2013-14-668845/india-vs-west-indies-2nd-test-676527/full-scorecard|url-status=live|access-date=11 October 2021|website=[[ESPNcricinfo]]|language=en}}</ref> This was also the last Test series for Tendulkar and Kohli was expected to take Tendulkar's number 4 batting position after the series.<ref name="king">{{cite web |date=3 November 2013 |title=The king and his heir |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/ian-chappell-on-the-batting-skills-of-sachin-tendulkar-and-virat-kohli-685039 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140708194251/http://www.espncricinfo.com/magazine/content/story/685039.html |archive-date=8 July 2014 |access-date=9 July 2014 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> In the first game of the three-match ODI series that followed at Kochi, Kohli made 86 to seal a six wicket win and won the man of the match.<ref name="mom17">{{cite web |date=21 November 2013 |title=West Indies tour of India, 1st ODI: India v West Indies at Kochi |url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/match/676529.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150830014946/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/match/676529.html |archive-date=30 August 2015 |access-date=13 May 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> He missed out on his third century at Visakhapatnam in the next match, after being dismissed for 99 while playing a [[Batting (cricket)#Pull and hook|hook shot]] off [[Ravi Rampaul]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Monga |first=Sidharth |date=24 November 2013 |title=Catches, drops, and a missed century |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/catches-drops-and-a-missed-century-692241 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160828175814/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/story/692241.html |archive-date=28 August 2016 |access-date=13 May 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> India lost the match by two wickets,<ref name=":13">{{Cite web |date=24 November 2013 |title=Full Scorecard of India vs West Indies 2nd ODI 2013/14 – Score Report |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/west-indies-tour-of-india-2013-14-668845/india-vs-west-indies-2nd-odi-676531/full-scorecard |url-status=live |access-date=11 October 2021 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |language=en}}</ref> but took the series 2–1 after winning the series-decider at Kanpur.<ref name="mos2">{{cite web |date=27 November 2013 |title=West Indies tour of India, 3rd ODI: India v West Indies at Kanpur, 27 Nov 2013 |url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/match/676533.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150417072501/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/match/676533.html |archive-date=17 April 2015 |access-date=13 May 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> With 204 runs at 68.00, Kohli finished the series as the leading run-getter and was awarded the man of the series.<ref>{{cite web |title=West Indies in India ODI Series, 2013/14 / Records / Most runs |url=http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/records/batting/most_runs_career.html?id=8673;type=series |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161122201920/http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/records/batting/most_runs_career.html?id=8673;type=series |archive-date=22 November 2016 |access-date=13 May 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> India [[Indian cricket team in South Africa in 2013–14|toured South Africa]] in December 2013 for three ODIs and two Tests. Kohli averaged 15.50 in the ODIs including a duck.<ref>{{cite web |title=Records / India in South Africa ODI Series, 2013/14 – India / Batting and bowling averages |url=http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/records/averages/batting_bowling_by_team.html?id=8269;team=6;type=series |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161122010929/http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/records/averages/batting_bowling_by_team.html?id=8269;team=6;type=series |archive-date=22 November 2016 |access-date=17 May 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> In the first Test at Johannesburg, playing his first Test in South Africa and batting at 4 for the first time,<ref name="testinnlist" /> Kohli scored 119 and 96. His hundred was the first by a subcontinent batsman at the venue since 1998.<ref>{{cite web |date=18 December 2013 |title=Kohli's best and a rare first-innings ton |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/stats-analysis-kohli-s-best-and-a-rare-first-innings-ton-701589 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160919173059/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/story/701589.html |archive-date=19 September 2016 |access-date=17 May 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> The match ended in a draw and Kohli was awarded man of the match.<ref name="tmom2">{{cite web |title=India tour of South Africa, 1st Test: South Africa v India at Johannesburg, 18–22 Dec 2013 |url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/match/648665.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140129084650/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/match/648665.html |archive-date=29 January 2014 |access-date=17 May 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> India failed to win a single match on the tour, losing the second Test by 10 wickets in which he made 46 and 11.<ref name="testinnlist" />

During [[Indian cricket team in New Zealand in 2013–14|New Zealand tour]], he averaged 58.21 in the five-match ODI series<ref>{{cite web |title=Records / India in New Zealand ODI Series, 2013/14 / Most runs |url=http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/records/batting/most_runs_career.html?id=8555;type=series |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160130222243/http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/records/batting/most_runs_career.html?id=8555;type=series |archive-date=30 January 2016 |access-date=17 May 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> in which his all efforts went in vain as India were defeated 4–0. He made 214 runs at 71.33 in the two-match Test series that followed<ref>{{cite web |title=Records / India in New Zealand Test Series, 2013/14 / Most runs |url=https://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/records/batting/most_runs_career.html?id=8673;type=series |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160130222238/http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/records/batting/most_runs_career.html?id=8557;type=series |archive-date=30 January 2016 |access-date=17 May 2015 |publisher=ESPN cricinfo}}</ref> including an unbeaten 105 on the last day of the second Test at Wellington that helped India save the match.<ref>{{cite web |title=India tour of New Zealand, 2nd Test: New Zealand v India at Wellington, 14–18 Feb 2014 |url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/match/667653.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150607041642/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/match/667653.html |archive-date=7 June 2015 |access-date=17 May 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> India then traveled to Bangladesh for the [[2014 Asia Cup|Asia Cup]] and World Twenty20. Dhoni was ruled out of the Asia Cup after suffering a [[side strain]] during the New Zealand tour, which led to Kohli being named the captain for the tournament.<ref>{{cite web |date=20 February 2014 |title=Dhoni out of Asia Cup with side strain |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/ms-dhoni-out-of-asia-cup-with-side-strain-720907 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150829055648/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/story/720907.html |archive-date=29 August 2015 |access-date=18 May 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> Kohli scored 136 off 122 balls in India's opening match against Bangladesh, sharing a 213 run third wicket stand with [[Ajinkya Rahane]], which helped India successfully chase 280.<ref name="mom18">{{cite web |title=Asia Cup, 2nd Match: Bangladesh v India at Fatullah, 26 Feb 2014 |url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/match/710293.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140225213001/http://www.espncricinfo.com/asia-cup-2014/engine/match/710293.html |archive-date=25 February 2014 |access-date=18 May 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> It was his 19th ODI century and his fifth in Bangladesh, making him the batsman with most ODI centuries in Bangladesh.<ref>{{cite web |date=26 February 2014 |title=Kohli's second-innings exploits, hundreds by captains |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/stats-kohli-s-second-innings-exploits-hundreds-by-captains-723187 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150829055653/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/story/723187.html |archive-date=29 August 2015 |access-date=18 May 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> India were knocked out of the tournament after narrow losses against Sri Lanka and Pakistan in which Kohli scored 48 and 5 respectively.<ref name="odiinnlist" /> Dhoni returned from injury to captain the team for [[2014 ICC World Twenty20]] while Kohli was named vice-captain. He scored 54 off 41 balls in the game against West Indies and an unbeaten 57 from 50 balls against Bangladesh, both in successful run chases.<ref name="t20innlist">{{cite web |title=Statistics / Statsguru / V Kohli / Twenty20 Internationals |url=https://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/player/253802.html?class=1;template=results;type=batting;view=innings |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161025051827/http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/player/253802.html?class=3;template=results;type=batting;view=innings |archive-date=25 October 2016 |access-date=24 August 2016 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> In the semi-final, he made an unbeaten 72 in 44 deliveries to help India achieve the target of 173.<ref name="imom3">{{cite web |date=4 Apr 2014 |title=World T20, 2nd Semi-Final: India v South Africa at Dhaka |url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/match/682963.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150414045541/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/match/682963.html |archive-date=14 April 2015 |access-date=27 May 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> He won the man of the match for this knock. In the final against Sri Lanka India posted the target of 130/4 in which Kohli top scored 77 from 58 balls. Notwithstanding his innings, India lost the match by six wickets.<ref name="imos2">{{cite web |date=6 Apr 2014 |title=World T20, Final: India v Sri Lanka at Dhaka |url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/match/682965.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150509085804/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/match/682965.html |archive-date=9 May 2015 |access-date=27 May 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> Kohli made a total of 319 runs in the tournament at an average of 106.33, a record for most runs by an individual batsman in a single [[World Twenty20]] tournament.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Jayaraman |first=Shiva |date=6 Apr 2014 |title=Yuvraj's 21-ball struggle, and SL's death bowling |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/yuvraj-s-21-ball-struggle-and-sl-s-death-bowling-735397 |url-status=live |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |language=en}}</ref> For his achievement he won the Man of the Tournament award.<ref>{{Cite web |date=7 Apr 2014 |title=ICC announces men's ICC World Twenty20 BD 2014 Team of the Tournament |url=https://www.icc-cricket.com/news/180042 |url-status=live |website=[[International Cricket Council|ICC-Cricket]]}}</ref>

Kohli had a successful time during India's [[West Indian cricket team in India in 2014–15|home ODI series win over the West Indies]] in October 2014. His 62 in the second ODI at Delhi was his first fifty across Tests and ODIs in 16 innings since February<ref>{{cite web |date=17 October 2014 |title=Kohli century sets up series win |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/west-indies-tour-of-india-2014-15-770047/india-vs-west-indies-4th-odi-770127/match-report |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150605234953/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/story/789885.html |archive-date=5 June 2015 |access-date=29 May 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> and he stated that he got his "confidence back" with the innings.<ref>{{cite web |date=17 October 2014 |title='I've got my confidence back' – Kohli |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/i-ve-got-my-confidence-back-kohli-789873 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150605234956/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/story/789873.html |archive-date=5 June 2015 |access-date=29 May 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref>  Dhoni was rested for the [[Sri Lankan cricket team in India in 2014–15|five-match ODI series]] against Sri Lanka in November enabling Kohli to lead the team for another full series. Kohli batted at 4 throughout the series and showed moderate batting display in the first four ODIs with India leading the series 4–0. In the fifth ODI at Ranchi, he made an unbeaten 139 off 126 balls to give his team a three-wicket win and a whitewash of Sri Lanka.<ref>{{Cite news |last= |first= |date=2014-11-16 |title=Virat Kohli steers India to ODI series whitewash over Sri Lanka |language=en-GB |work=[[The Guardian]] |agency=[[Press Association]] |url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/nov/16/india-sri-lanka-virat-kohli-odi |access-date= |issn=0261-3077}}</ref> Kohli was awarded player of the series and it was the second whitewash under his captaincy.<ref>{{cite web |date=16 November 2014 |title=A century of wins for India |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/a-century-of-wins-for-india-799993 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150605234944/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/story/799993.html |archive-date=5 June 2015 |access-date=29 May 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> During the series he became the fastest batsman in the world to go past the 6000-run mark in ODIs, at the time.<ref>{{cite web |date=9 November 2014 |title=Kohli and Dhawan break milestone records |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/kohli-and-dhawan-break-milestone-records-797645 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150605234951/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/story/797645.html |archive-date=5 June 2015 |access-date=29 May 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> With 1054 ODI runs at 58.55 in 2014, he became the second player in the world after [[Sourav Ganguly]] to make more than 1,000 runs in ODIs for four consecutive calendar years.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Thiraviam |first=Buvanesh |title=Players with Most "1000 ODI Runs in a Calendar Year" |url=https://www.cricindeed.com/players-with-most-1000-runs-in-odi-in-a-calendar-year/ |url-status=live |access-date=10 January 2023 |website=CricIndeed|date=23 November 2021 }}</ref>[[File:VIRAT KHOLI & DUNCAN FLETCHER (15573134813).jpg|thumb|Virat in discussion with coach [[Duncan Fletcher]] ahead of [[Border–Gavaskar Trophy|Border-Gavaskar series]]]]

Kohli carried on his form with ODI centuries against the West Indies and Sri Lanka in consecutive series, equalling [[Ricky Ponting]]'s tally of 30 ODI centuries.<ref name="mom24">{{cite web |title=Kohli, Rohit smash hundreds in crushing victory |url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/series/17891/report/1109608/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170901034724/http://www.espncricinfo.com/series/17891/report/1109608/ |archive-date=1 September 2017 |access-date=31 August 2017 |website=[[ESPN Cricinfo]] |date=31 August 2017 |publisher=}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Date |first=Kartikeya |date=10 September 2017 |title=Is Kohli up there with Tendulkar and Richards as an ODI batsman? |url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/story/_/id/20655528/virat-kohli-there-sachin-tendulkar-viv-richards-odi-batsman |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170910124110/http://www.espncricinfo.com/story/_/id/20655528/virat-kohli-there-sachin-tendulkar-viv-richards-odi-batsman |archive-date=10 September 2017 |access-date=10 September 2017 |website=[[ESPN Cricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> In October 2017, he was adjudged the ODI player of the series against New Zealand for scoring two ODI centuries, during the course of which he made a new record for the most runs (8,888), best average (55.55) and highest number of centuries (31) for any batsman when completing 200 ODIs.<ref>{{cite web |date=22 October 2017 |title=Kohli: the most prolific batsman after 200 ODIs |url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/story/_/id/21112829/most-prolific-batsman-200-odis |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171023012816/http://www.espncricinfo.com/story/_/id/21112829/most-prolific-batsman-200-odis |archive-date=23 October 2017 |website=[[ESPN Cricinfo]]}}</ref><ref name="mos4">{{cite web|title=3rd ODI (D/N), New Zealand tour of India at Kanpur, Oct 29 2017|url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/series/18029/scorecard/1120092/India-vs-New-Zealand-3rd-ODI-nz-in-ind-2017-18-2017-18|publisher=ESPN Cricinfo|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171126104900/http://www.espncricinfo.com/series/18029/scorecard/1120092|archive-date=26 November 2017}}</ref> Kohli made several more records during the [[Sri Lankan cricket team in India in 2017–18|3 match Test series against Sri Lanka]] at home in November. After scoring a century and a double century in the first two Tests, he ended up scoring yet another double century in the third Test during which he became the eleventh Indian batsman to surpass 5000 runs in Test cricket while scoring his 20th Test century and 6th double century.<ref>{{cite web |last=Seervi |first=Bharath |date=2 December 2017 |title=Kohli breezes past 5000 runs with his 20th Test ton |url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/story/_/id/21638676/virat-kohli-breezes-5000-runs-20th-test-ton |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171203071022/http://www.espncricinfo.com/story/_/id/21638676/virat-kohli-breezes-5000-runs-20th-test-ton |archive-date=3 December 2017 |website=[[ESPN Cricinfo]]}}</ref> During this match he also became the first batsman to score six double hundreds as a captain.<ref>{{cite news |title=Virat Kohli surpasses Brian Lara for most double centuries as captain |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/sri-lanka-in-india/virat-kohli-surpasses-brian-lara-for-most-double-centuries-as-captain/articleshow/61900016.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171203080550/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/sri-lanka-in-india/virat-kohli-surpasses-brian-lara-for-most-double-centuries-as-captain/articleshow/61900016.cms |archive-date=3 December 2017 |access-date=3 December 2017 |work=[[The Times of India]]|date=3 December 2017 }}</ref> With 610 runs in the series, Kohli also became the highest run-scorer by an Indian in a three-match Test series and the fourth-highest overall.<ref name="Auto1">{{cite web |last=Seervi |first=Bharath |date=5 December 2017 |title=Virat Kohli – 2818 international runs in 2017 |url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/story/_/id/21674290/virat-kohli-2818-international-runs-2017 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171206081229/http://www.espncricinfo.com/story/_/id/21674290/virat-kohli-2818-international-runs-2017 |archive-date=6 December 2017 |website=[[ESPN Cricinfo]]}}</ref> India comfortably won the three-match series 1–0 and Kohli was adjudged man of the match for the second and third Test matches and player of the series. With this win, India equaled Australia for the record streak of nine consecutive series wins in Test cricket.<ref>{{cite web |last=Seervi |first=Bharath |date=6 December 2017 |title=India's record streak of nine consecutive series wins |url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/india-v-sri-lanka-2017/content/story/1128687.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180303200120/http://www.espncricinfo.com/india-v-sri-lanka-2017/content/story/1128687.html |archive-date=3 March 2018 |website=[[ESPN Cricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> He ended the year with 2818 international runs, which is recorded as the third-highest tally ever in a calendar year and the highest tally ever by an Indian player.<ref name="Auto1" /> The ICC named Kohli as captain of both their World Test XI and ODI XI for 2017.<ref name=":15">{{Cite web |date=18 Jan 2018 |title=ICC Awards: Men's Test and ODI Teams of the Year 2017 announced |url=https://www.icc-cricket.com/media-releases/597047 |url-status=live |website=[[International Cricket Council|ICC-cricket]]}}</ref> Kohli farely average in the Test matches as India lost 1–2 during the [[Indian cricket team in South Africa in 2017–18|South Africa tour in 2018]] but came back strongly to score 558 runs in the 6 ODIs making a record for the highest runs scored in a bilateral ODI series.<ref>{{cite web |last=Lynch |first=Steven |date=13 February 2018 |title=Who has scored the most runs in a bilateral ODI series? |url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/story/_/id/22506527/scored-most-test-runs-month |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180224102835/http://www.espncricinfo.com/story/_/id/22506527/scored-most-test-runs-month |archive-date=24 February 2018 |website=[[ESPN Cricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> This included three centuries, remaining unbeaten in two with a best of 160*.<ref>{{cite web |last=Christopher Nickels |first=Jephher |date=16 February 2018 |title=India vs South Africa, 6th ODI: Virat Kohli blasts 3rd hundred in 6-match series |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/sports/cricket/story/india-vs-south-africa-6th-odi-virat-kohli-blasts-3rd-hundred-in-6-match-series-1171279-2018-02-16 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180218021953/https://www.indiatoday.in/sports/cricket/story/india-vs-south-africa-6th-odi-virat-kohli-blasts-3rd-hundred-in-6-match-series-1171279-2018-02-16 |archive-date=18 February 2018 |website=[[India Today]] |publisher=}}</ref> India won the ODI series 5–1 and Kohli became the first Indian captain to win an ODI series in South Africa.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/sports/cricket/story/virat-kohli-leads-india-to-their-first-ever-bilateral-series-triumph-in-south-africa-1169147-2018-02-14|title=India create history in South Africa: Virat Kohli does what no other Indian captain could|date=14 February 2018|publisher=India Today|first=Ritayan|last=Basu|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180214055905/https://www.indiatoday.in/sports/cricket/story/virat-kohli-leads-india-to-their-first-ever-bilateral-series-triumph-in-south-africa-1169147-2018-02-14|archive-date=14 February 2018}}</ref>

In March 2018, Kohli showed interest to county cricket in England in June in order to improve his batting before the start of [[Indian cricket team in England in 2018|India's tour to England]] the following month.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Martin |first=Ali |date=2018-03-24 |title=Virat Kohli may join Surrey to tune up for India's Test series in England |language=en-GB |work=[[The Guardian]] |agency=[[The Observer]] |url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2018/mar/24/virat-kohli-may-join-surrey-england-india-test-series |access-date= |issn=0029-7712}}</ref> He signed to play for [[Surrey County Cricket Club|Surrey]] but a neck injury ruled him out of his stint in England before it even began.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Martin |first=Ali |date=2018-05-24 |title=Virat Kohli's Surrey move off after India captain suffers neck injury |language=en-GB |work=[[The Guardian]] |url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2018/may/24/virat-kohli-surrey-move-off-india-injury |access-date= |issn=0261-3077}}</ref> On 2 August, Kohli scored his first Test century on English soil in the first test match of the series against England.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Marks |first=Vic |author-link=Vic Marks |date=2018-08-02 |title=Virat Kohli's brilliant century frustrates England in India fightback |language=en-GB |work=[[The Guardian]] |publication-place=Edgbaston |url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2018/aug/02/england-india-first-test-day-two-match-report |access-date= |issn=0261-3077}}</ref> On 5 August, Kohli displaced [[Steve Smith (cricketer)|Steve Smith]] to become the No. 1 ranked Test batsman in the ICC Test rankings. He also became the seventh Indian batsman and first since Sachin Tendulkar in June 2011 to achieve this feat.<ref>{{Cite news |title=Kohli displaces Smith as No. 1 Test batsman |language=en |work=[[Cricbuzz]] |url=https://www.cricbuzz.com/cricket-news/103469/virat-kohli-india-cricket-team-captain-displaces-steven-smith-as-no-1-test-batsman |access-date=5 August 2018}}</ref> In the third test at [[Trent Bridge]], [[Nottingham]], Kohli scored 97 and 103 and helped India win by 203 runs.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Marks |first=Vic |author-link=Vic Marks |date=20 Aug 2018 |title=Virat Kohli's measured century leaves England facing third Test drubbing |url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2018/aug/20/england-india-third-test-day-three-match-report |url-status=live |access-date=11 Jan 2023 |website=[[The Guardian]] |series=England vs India 2018 |language=en}}</ref> At the end of 5-match test series, Kohli scored 593 runs which was third highest runs by an Indian batsman in a losing test series. Kohli's consistent performance in the series against the moving ball when other batsman failed to perform was hailed by [[Mass media in the United Kingdom|British Media]] as one of his finest. ''[[The Guardian]]'' describes Kohli's batting display as ''One of the Greatest batting display in a losing cause''.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Miller |first=Nick |date=4 September 2018 |title=Virat Kohli and the greatest batting performances in a losing cause |url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2018/sep/04/the-spin-cricket-virat-kohli-and-the-greatest-batting-performances-in-a-losing-cause |access-date=23 March 2021 |website=[[The Guardian]]}}</ref>[[File:Virat Kohli at Greenfield Stadium 1.11.2018.jpg|thumb|185x185px|Kohli at [[Greenfield International Stadium|Greenfield Stadium]] during match with [[West Indies cricket team|West Indies]] ]]During ODI series [[West Indies cricket team in India in 2018–19|against West Indies]] in 2018, Kohli accomplished a noteworthy achievement. He became the twelfth batsman to amass [[List of players who have scored 10,000 or more runs in One Day International cricket|10,000 ODI runs]] in ODIs and achieved this feat at an unprecedented pace,<ref>{{Cite news |last=Marks |first=Vic |date=2018-10-24 |title=Virat Kohli's record-breaking knock has fans debating who is the greatest |language=en-GB |work=[[The Guardian]] |url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2018/oct/24/virat-kohli-sachin-tendulkar-fastest-10000-odi-runs-cricket |access-date= |issn=0261-3077}}</ref> he surpassed this landmark in 54 fewer innings than Sachin Tendulkar, the player who holds the record for being the second-fastest to the landmark.<ref name=":16">{{Cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/west-indies-in-india/unstoppable-virat-kohli-fastest-to-10000-odi-runs-breaks-sachin-tendulkars-record/articleshow/66347065.cms |title=Unstoppable Virat Kohli fastest to 10,000 ODI runs, breaks Sachin Tendulkar's record |work=[[The Times of India]]|access-date=24 October 2018|language=en}}</ref> In the course he scored his 37th ODI century. On 27 October, after scoring his 38th ODI century Kohli became the first batsman for India, first captain and tenth overall to score three successive centuries in ODIs.<ref>{{Cite news |date=27 October 2018 |title=India vs West Indies: Virat Kohli becomes first Indian batsman to complete hat-trick of centuries in ODIs |language=en |work=[[Hindustan Times]] |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/cricket/india-vs-west-indies-virat-kohli-becomes-first-indian-batsman-to-complete-hat-trick-of-centuries-in-odis/story-Lnj9LPmpqy1X6Y2AR8GmnL.html |access-date=28 October 2018}}</ref> He ended up scoring 453 runs in 5 innings at an average of 151.00 in the 5-match series and was the [[Player of the Match awards (cricket)|Player of the Series]].<ref>{{cite web |title=India storm to series win after Ravindra Jadeja four-for |url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/series/18902/report/1157758/india-vs-west-indies-5th-odi-west-indies-in-india-2018-19 |access-date=1 November 2018 |work=[[ESPNcricinfo]]|date=November 2018 }}</ref>

In April 2019, he was named the captain of [[2019 Cricket World Cup squads#India|India's squad]] for the [[2019 Cricket World Cup]].<ref>{{cite web |last=Gollapudi |first=Nagraj |date=15 Apr 2019 |title=Rahul and Karthik in, Pant and Rayudu out of India's World Cup squad |url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/story/_/id/26528278/rahul-karthik-pant-rayudu-india-world-cup-squad |access-date=15 April 2019 |work=[[ESPN Cricinfo]]}}</ref> On 16 June 2019, in India's match against [[Pakistan national cricket team|Pakistan]], Kohli became the fastest batsman in terms of innings to score 11,000 runs in ODI cricket. He reached the landmark in his 222nd innings.<ref name="auto1">{{Cite news |last=Gupta |first=Rajarshi |title=India vs Pakistan: Virat Kohli fastest to 11,000 ODI runs |language=en |work=[[India Today]] |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/sports/cricket-world-cup-2019/story/world-cup-2019-india-vs-pakistan-virat-kohli-sachin-tendulkar-11000-odi-runs-fastest-1550053-2019-06-16}}</ref> Eleven days later in the match against the [[West Indies cricket team|West Indies]], Kohli became the fastest cricketer in terms of innings to score 20,000 runs in international cricket, doing so in his 417th innings.<ref name="auto3">{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/icc-world-cup/virat-kohli-surpasses-sachin-and-lara-becomes-fastest-to-20000-international-runs/articleshow/69974402.cms |title=Virat Kohli surpasses Sachin and Lara, becomes fastest to 20,000 international runs |work=[[The Times of India]] |date=27 June 2019 |access-date=27 June 2019}}</ref> Kohli scored five consecutive fifty plus scores in the tournament . Nonetheless, India lost the semi-final against New Zealand in which Kohli was out for just a run.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2019-07-11 |title='It breaks your heart': India's Kohli on shock loss to New Zealand – video |language=en-GB |work=[[The Guardian]] |url=http://www.theguardian.com/sport/video/2019/jul/11/it-breaks-your-heart-indias-kohli-on-shock-loss-to-new-zealand-video |access-date= |issn=0261-3077}}</ref>  After the World Cup, [[Indian cricket team in the West Indies and the United States in 2019|India toured West Indies]] for 3 T20Is and 3 ODIs followed by two test matches .<ref>{{Cite web |title=India tour of West Indies, 2019 |url=https://www.cricbuzz.com/cricket-series/2856/india-tour-of-west-indies-2019/matches |url-status=live |website=[[cricbuzz]]}}</ref> Kohli was instrumental in ODI series win as he struck back to back hundreds in second and third ODI. He was awarded player of the series for his match performances.<ref>{{Cite web |date=14 Aug 2019 |title=India vs West Indies {{!}} Match details , 3rd ODI, Port of Spain |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/india-tour-of-west-indies-2019-1188617/west-indies-vs-india-3rd-odi-1188626/full-scorecard |url-status=live |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]]}}</ref> In the following test series which India won 2–0, Kohli became most successful test captain for India, going past MS Dhoni who had 27 wins.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2 September 2019 |title='Captaincy is just a c in front of your name' - Virat Kohli |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/captaincy-is-just-a-c-in-front-of-your-name-virat-kohli-1199363 |url-status=live |access-date=30 December 2022 |website=[[ESPN Cricinfo]]}}</ref>

[[Indian cricket team in New Zealand in 2019–20|India toured to New Zealand]] from January to March 2020 to play 5-match T20I series along with a 3 and 2-match ODI and test series respectively. During the tour, Kolhi only managed to score 218 runs across formats in 12 innings at an average of 19.81 with only one fifty plus score during the first ODI. This was his lowest aggregate of runs in a tour where he played in all formats. India managed to win the T20I series 5–0 but during the ODI and Test leg of the tour they lost by 3–0 and 2–0 respectively.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Gede |first=Roshan |date=2020-02-24 |title='We Were Just Not Competitive Enough' – Kohli {{!}} Wisden Cricket |url=https://wisden.com/series-stories/new-zealand-v-india/we-were-just-not-competitive-enough-kohli-reflects-on-indias-heavy-defeat |access-date= |website=[[Wisden]] |language=en-GB}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Seervi |first=Bharat |date=2 Mar 2020 |title=India's third-poorest Test series with the bat, and Kohli's second-worst |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/india-s-third-poorest-test-series-with-the-bat-and-kohli-s-second-worst-1218125 |access-date=2 April 2021 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |language=en}}</ref> [[Indian cricket team in Australia in 2020–21|The Indian team travelled to Australia]] in November 2020, touring until January 2021. During the [[Indian cricket team in Australia in 2020–21#ODI series|ODI Series]], Kohli managed to score two half-centuries in three innings with an aggregate of 173 runs at an average of 57.67. The second match against Australia was Kohli's 250th appearance in an ODI match and became 8th Indian to play this many matches.<ref>{{Cite news |date=29 Nov 2020 |title=Virat Kohli becomes the 8th Indian cricketer to make 250 ODI appearances |work=[[Royal Challengers Bangalore|RCB]] |url=https://www.royalchallengers.com/rcb-cricket-news/news/virat-kohli-becomes-the-8th-indian-cricketer-to-make-250-odi-appearances}}</ref> During the first test of the tour played as day/night match at [[Adelaide Oval|Adelaide]], Kohli scored 74 before getting run out<ref>{{Cite news |date=17 Dec 2020 |title=Kohli run out as India lose late wickets |language=en-GB |work=[[BBC Sport]] |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/cricket/55347061 |access-date=2 April 2021}}</ref> followed by 4 runs in the next innings. This happened in the match in which India were skittled out for 36 .<ref>{{Cite web |last=Berry |first=Scyld |date=19 Dec 2020 |title=India skittled out for 36 - their lowest Test score - by Australia in whopping defeat in Adelaide |url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/cricket/2020/12/19/india-skittled-36-lowest-test-score-australia-whopping-defeat/ |url-status=live |access-date=2 April 2021 |website=[[The Daily Telegraph and North Murchison and Pilbarra Gazette|The Telegraph]] |issn=0307-1235}}</ref> After the first Test, Kohli left the tour on [[Parental leave|paternity leave]] as he was expecting the birth of his first child.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sud |first=Vedika |date=2020-12-05 |title=Virat Kohli put the birth of his first child before cricket. That sends a strong message to Indian men about fatherhood |url=https://www.cnn.com/2020/12/04/india/virat-kohli-paternity-leave-india-dst-intl-hnk/index.html |access-date=2022-02-19 |website=[[CNN]] |language=en}}</ref> In November 2020, Kohli was nominated for the Sir Garfield Sobers Award for ICC Male Cricketer of the Decade as well as Test, ODI and T20I player of the decade.<ref>{{cite web |date=25 Nov 2020 |title=Virat Kohli, Kane Williamson, Steven Smith, Joe Root nominated for ICC men's cricketer of the decade award |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/_/id/30385388/virat-kohli,-kane-williamson,-steven-smith,-joe-root-nominated-icc-men-cricketer-decade-award |access-date= |work=[[ESPN Cricinfo]]}}</ref> He won the awards for Male cricketer of the decade and ODI cricketer of the decade.<ref>{{cite web |date=25 November 2020 |title=ICC Awards of the Decade announced |url=https://www.icc-cricket.com/media-releases/1908769 |access-date= |work=[[International Cricket Council|ICC-cricket]]}}</ref>

Kohli was dismissed for a duck again in the 1st T20I of a 5-match series. However, he found his form in the latter part of the series and ended the series as the highest run-scorer from both sides with 231 runs to his name and 3 half-centuries at an average of 115.50. India clinched the series 3–2; Kohli was adjudged as the [[Man of the Series]] for his performances.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Collins |first=Adam |date=14 March 2021 |title=Virat Kohli leads India to T20 win to level series with England |url=http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2021/mar/14/virat-kohli-leads-india-to-t20-win-to-level-series-with-england |access-date=4 April 2021 |website=[[The Guardian]] |language=en}}</ref> During the second T20I, Kohli became the first ever batsman to complete 3,000 runs in the format.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |title=Records {{!}} T20 International {{!}} Fastest to 3000 runs |url=https://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/records/1335852.html |url-status=live |website=ESPN cricinfo}}</ref> In the 3-match ODI series, Kohli scored 129 runs in 3 innings with 2 half-centuries as India won the series 2–1. During the 2nd ODI, Kohli became the second batsman after [[Ricky Ponting]] to score 10,000 runs batting at number 3.<ref>{{Cite web |date=26 March 2021 |title=India vs England: Kohli completes 10,000 ODI runs while batting at No. 3 |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/england-in-india/india-vs-england-kohli-completes-10000-odi-runs-while-batting-at-no-3/articleshow/81706289.cms |access-date= |website=[[The Times of India]] |language=en}}</ref>

The [[2021 ICC World Test Championship Final]] was played in June 2021, which India lost to New Zealand.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Martin |first=Ali |date=22 Jun 2021 |title=Kane Williamson digs in as New Zealand and India take edgy WTC final to last day |url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2021/jun/22/new-zealand-india-day-five-world-test-championship-final-kane-williamson |url-status=live |access-date=11 Jan 2023 |website=[[The Guardian]] |series=World Test Championship |place=Ageas Bowl |language=en}}</ref> This was Kohli's third defeat as captain in a knockout game of an ICC tournament.<ref>{{Cite news |last= |date=2021-06-24 |title=India introspective as ICC success eludes captain Kohli again |language=en |work=[[Reuters]] |url=https://www.reuters.com/world/india/india-introspective-icc-success-eludes-captain-kohli-again-2021-06-24/ |url-access=registration |access-date=2021-12-29}}</ref> He scored 44 and 13 in two innings before getting dismissed by [[Kyle Jamieson]] on both occasions .<ref>{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2021-06-20 |title=Jamieson Dismisses Kohli Weeks After Refusing To Bowl To Him With The Dukes |url=https://wisden.com/series-stories/world-test-championship/jamieson-dismisses-kohli-weeks-after-refusing-to-bowl-to-him-with-the-dukes |access-date= |website=[[Wisden]] |language=en-GB}}</ref>

Later in 2021 and early 2022, [[Indian cricket team in South Africa in 2021–22|the Indian cricket team toured South Africa]] for a 3-match test series and a 3-match ODI series. Kohli managed to score 161 runs in the 4 innings of test series he played, averaging at 40.25. He could not play 2nd test of the series due to an injury.<ref>{{Cite news |date=7 Jan 2022 |title=Team India head coach Rahul Dravid after the defeat in second Test and provided an update on Virat Kohli's fitness |work=[[Hindustan Times]] |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/cricket/rahul-dravid-provides-update-on-virat-kohli-s-injury-after-2nd-test-defeat-he-has-had-opportunity-to-run-around-a-little-bit-101641536314155.html}}</ref> On 15 January 2022, Kohli also stepped down as India's Test captain, following the 2–1 test series defeat against South Africa.<ref>{{Cite web |date=15 Jan 2022 |title=Virat Kohli steps down as India Test captain after losing South Africa series |url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2022/jan/15/virat-kohli-steps-down-india-test-captain-after-losing-south-africa-series-cricket |url-status=live |access-date=11 Jan 2023 |website=[[The Guardian]]}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=17 Jan 2022 |title=Virat Kohli: Why quitting was the only option for 'cornered' captain |url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-60013805 |access-date=1 Feb 2023 |website=[[BBC]]}}</ref> In the ODI series, Kohli scored 116 runs in 3 innings, including two fifties, with an average of 38.66.<ref>{{cite web |title=Records/India in South Africa ODI series, 2021/22/Most runs |url=https://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/records/batting/most_runs_career.html?id=14164;type=series |access-date=15 February 2022 |work=[[ESPNcricinfo]]}}</ref> However South Africa swept the ODI series against India with a whitewash of 3–0.<ref>{{Cite news |date=23 Jan 2022 |title=South Africa complete clean sweep in ODI series against India thanks to Quinton de Kock's century |no-pp=y |work=[[Sky Sports]] |url=https://www.skysports.com/cricket/news/12123/12523798/south-africa-complete-clean-sweep-in-odi-series-against-india-thanks-to-quinton-de-kocks-century#:~:text=Sky%20Bet-,South%20Africa%20complete%20clean%20sweep%20in%20ODI%20series%20against,to%20Quinton%20de%20Kock's%20century&text=Quinton%20de%20Kock%20scored%20a,victory%20at%20Newlands%20on%20Sunday. |access-date=11 Jan 2023}}</ref>

Prior to the [[2011 Indian Premier League|2011 season]] of the IPL, Kohli was the sole player retained by Bangalore, for a amount of {{USD|1.8 million}}.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Kumar |first=K.C. Vijaya |date=2011-04-07 |title=RCB sports a brand new look |language=en-IN |work=[[The Hindu]] |url=https://www.thehindu.com/sport/RCB-sports-a-brand-new-look/article14674181.ece |access-date=2013-06-29 |issn=0971-751X}}</ref> In the opening match against the [[Kochi Tuskers Kerala]], Kohli started his campaign with a score of 23 runs.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2011-04-09 |title=De Villiers guides Royal Challengers home |language=en-IN |work=[[The Hindu]] |url=https://www.thehindu.com/sport/cricket/De-Villiers-guides-Royal-Challengers-home/article14677158.ece |access-date=2013-06-29 |issn=0971-751X}}</ref> He registered his first half-century of the season against the Deccan Chargers, in pursuit of what was then the second-highest run chase, however Bangalore fell short by 33 runs.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Gollapudi |first=Nagraj |date=14 Apr 2011 |title=Deccan charge to maiden home victory |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/indian-premier-league-2011-466304/deccan-chargers-vs-royal-challengers-bangalore-11th-match-501208/match-report |access-date=2011-06-29 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |language=en}}</ref> After lacklustre start for Bangalore, winning two out of their first six matches, Kohli scored 56 runs in the next match against the [[Delhi Daredevils]], and was awarded the player of the match for the first time in the tournament.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Rao |first=Rakesh |date=2011-04-26 |title=RCB rides on Virat Kohli's assault |language=en-IN |work=[[The Hindu]] |url=https://www.thehindu.com/sport/cricket/RCB-rides-on-Virat-Kohlis-assault/article14697919.ece |access-date=2013-09-29 |issn=0971-751X}}</ref> In the subsequent match, he continued his form against the [[Pune Warriors India|Pune Warriors]], where he claimed his second player of the match award. It was during this match that Kohli became the leading run-scorer of the season, donning the [[Orange Cap|Orange cap]] for the short time, and he also surpassed the milestone of 1000 runs in the IPL.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2011-04-30 |title=Happy to get the Orange Cap: Kohli |language=en-IN |work=[[The Hindu]] |publication-place=Bangalore |url=https://www.thehindu.com/sport/cricket/Happy-to-get-the-Orange-Cap-Kohli/article14906712.ece |access-date=2012-06-24 |issn=0971-751X}}</ref> During the mid-tournament, with regular captain [[Daniel Vettori]] sustaining an injury, Kohli had the opportunity to captain his side for the first time in an IPL match.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Lokapally |first=Vijay |author-link=Vijay Lokapally |date=2011-05-11 |title=RCB cruises to its sixth win in-a-row |language=en-IN |work=[[The Hindu]] |url=https://www.thehindu.com/sport/cricket/rcb-cruises-to-its-sixth-win-inarow/article2009768.ece |access-date=2023-06-29 |issn=0971-751X}}</ref> Team's coach, [[Ray Jennings]] praised Kohli for his efforts, acknowledged his potential to become the future captain not only of the franchise but also of the Indian national team.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2011-04-07 |title=Jennings determined to win IPL |url=https://www.espn.in/cricket/story/_/id/22453249/ray-jennings-determined-win-ipl |access-date=2012-09-22 |website=[[ESPN]] |language=en}}</ref> The team ended their league stage campaign on a high note, defeating the Chennai Super Kings and securing the top position on the points table.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Kumar |first=K.C. Vijaya |date=2011-05-22 |title=Bangalore leapfrogs Chennai into first place |language=en-IN |work=[[The Hindu]] |url=https://www.thehindu.com/sport/cricket/bangalore-leapfrogs-chennai-into-first-place/article2040138.ece |access-date=2013-06-19 |issn=0971-751X}}</ref> In the [[2011 Indian Premier League#Qualifier 1|first qualifier]], Kohli scored 70 of 44 balls. Setting a target of 175 runs, Bangalore failed to defend, resulting in knockout match against the Mumbai Indians.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Kumble |first=Anil |author-link=Anil Kumble |date=2011-05-26 |title=RCB has a very good chance |language=en-IN |work=[[The Hindu]] |url=https://www.thehindu.com/sport/rcb-has-a-very-good-chance/article2052077.ece |access-date=2012-09-29 |issn=0971-751X}}</ref> In the knockout match, Bangalore triumphed over Mumbai, securing their place in the IPL final for the second time. In the [[2011 Indian Premier League final|final]], chasing a target of 205 runs, Kohli contributed 35 runs to the team's total. However, Bangalore once again fell short in their pursuit of the title.<ref>{{Cite news |date=29 May 2011 |title=Chennai Super Kings win IPL again |language=en-GB |work=[[BBC Sport]] |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/cricket/13589283 |access-date=2013-06-29}}</ref> During the season, Kohli amassed 557 runs, including four half-centuries, and earning the distinction of being the second-highest run-scorer of the season, trailing West-Indian teammate [[Chris Gayle]].<ref>{{Cite news |date=2012-04-05 |title=Relaxed Kohli ready for the action |language=en-IN |work=[[The Hindu]] |url=https://www.thehindu.com/sport/cricket/relaxed-kohli-ready-for-the-action/article3284962.ece |access-date= |issn=0971-751X}}</ref> In the Champions League, Bangalore encountered a defeat in their first match against the [[Warriors (cricket team)|Warriors]]. In the following match, Kohli got dismissed for a duck, leading to another loss for Bangalore. To secure a spot in the semi-finals, they needed to win their remaining two matches. In their last group-stage match against the [[Southern Redbacks]], Kohli showcased his aggressive batting by scoring 70 runs off just 36 balls, propelling Bangalore into the semi-finals.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ravindran |first=Siddarth |date=5 Oct 2011 |title='The best T20 match of my life' - Kohli |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/royal-challengers-v-south-australia-clt20-bangalore-the-best-t20-match-of-my-life-virat-kohli-535258 |access-date=2012-10-19 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |language=en}}</ref> In the semi-final clash against the [[New South Wales cricket team|New South Wales Blues]], Kohli once again played match-winning innings, scoring an unbeaten 84 runs.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Monga |first=Sidharth |date=7 Oct 2011 |title=RCB rip through second consecutive 200-plus target |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/nokia-champions-league-t20-2011-12-519661/royal-challengers-bangalore-vs-new-south-wales-1st-semi-final-521347/match-report |access-date=2012-06-29 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |language=en}}</ref> However, in the final showdown against the Mumbai Indians, Bangalore suffered a defeat by a margin of 31 runs.

In the [[2019 Indian Premier League|2019 IPL season]], Kohli etched his name in the annals of IPL history by reaching the milestone of 5000 runs, becoming only the second player to achieve this feat after [[Suresh Raina]].<ref name=":19">{{cite web |date=29 March 2019 |title=Virat Kohli second batsman to score 5000 runs in IPL |url=https://m.timesofindia.com/sports/cricket/ipl/top-stories/virat-kohli-second-batsman-to-score-5000-runs-in-ipl/amp_articleshow/68620826.cms |access-date=30 March 2019 |website=[[The Times of India]] |language=en}}</ref> During the competition, the skipper also overtook Raina to become the leading run-scorer in IPL, after his innings of 84 runs against [[Kolkata Knight Riders]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2019-04-05 |title=IPL 2019: Virat Kohli becomes top scorer in Indian Premier League |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/cricket/ipl-2019-virat-kohli-scores-his-35th-ipl-half-century/story-jNugRRAEHO46TY8cevlEpO.html |access-date=2020-02-07 |website=[[Hindustan Times]] |language=en}}</ref> His achievements were further magnified by the fact that he notched up his fifth IPL century, in an away match against the same opposition.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Sarangi |first=Y. B. |date=2019-04-19 |title=IPL 2019: Kohli & Co. weather a Rana-Russell assault |language=en-IN |work=[[The Hindu]] |url=https://www.thehindu.com/sport/cricket/indian-premier-league-2019-kolkata-knight-riders-vs-royal-challengers-bangalore-in-kolkata/article26891050.ece |access-date=2020-12-24 |issn=0971-751X}}</ref> Despite his output, totalling 464 runs at a strike rate of 141.46, the Royal Challengers Bangalore struggled under Kohli's captaincy, ultimately finishing at the bottom of the league standings.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Records/Indian Premiere League 2019/Most Runs |url=https://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/records/batting/most_runs_career.html?id=12741;type=tournament |url-status=live |access-date=28 December 2022 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]]}}</ref>

Upon the resumption of cricket following the [[lockdown]], Kohli returned to the field with cautious optimism. Despite his five-month hiatus from the sport, he expressed surprise at the smoothness of his performance.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Achal |first=Ashwin |date=2020-08-29 |title=Indian Premier League 2020 {{!}} Kohli happy with batting rhythm |language=en-IN |work=[[The Hindu]] |url=https://www.thehindu.com/sport/cricket/indian-premier-league-2020-kohli-happy-with-batting-rhythm/article32475772.ece |access-date=2021-06-30 |issn=0971-751X}}</ref> During the [[2020 Indian Premier League|2020 season]], Kohli amassed 466 runs in 15 matches, averaging at 42.36 and striking at a rate of 121.35. This saw him take the 9th place among the tournament's highest run-scorers,<ref name=":6">{{Cite web |date=20 May 2022 |title=IPL 2022: Virat Kohli becomes first player to score 300-plus runs in 13 consecutive seasons |url=https://theprint.in/sport/ipl-2022-virat-kohli-becomes-first-player-to-score-300-plus-runs-in-13-consecutive-seasons/964258/#:~:text=In%202020%2C%20he%20scored%20466,of%2028.92%20in%2015%20games. |url-status=live |access-date=28 December 2022 |website=[[The Print]]}}</ref> his team, Royal Challengers Bangalore, was eliminated in the eliminator match against [[Sunrisers Hyderabad]], with Kohli's early dismissal in the second over at the hands of [[Jason Holder]] playing a significant role in their elimination.<ref>{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2020-11-06 |title=IPL 2020 Playoffs: Royal Challengers Bangalore knocked out, Sunrisers Hyderabad to face Delhi Capitals in Qualifier 2 |url=https://sportstar.thehindu.com/cricket/ipl/ipl-news/ipl-2020-playoffs-srh-beats-rcb-royal-challengers-bangalore-knocked-out-sunrisers-hyderabad-kohli-williamson/article33043359.ece |access-date=2023-02-07 |website=[[Sportstar]] |language=en}}</ref>

Kohli has often expressed his admiration for the [[Cover drive (cricket)|cover drive]], which he considers to be his signature stroke. He possesses a natural aptitude for the [[Batting (cricket)|flick shot]], particularly when facing deliveries aimed towards [[leg stump]].<ref name="thisis2" /> Having a limited recourse to the [[sweep shot]], Kohli's batting technique is characterized by an emphasis on ground shots that primarily yield runs in the regions between [[Square leg|deep square leg]] and [[Mid on|mid-on]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-02-04 |title='Virat Kohli will have to…': Ex-India batting coach shares mantra to handle Nathan Lyon in Border-Gavaskar Trophy |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/cricket/virat-kohli-will-have-to-ex-india-batting-coach-shares-mantra-to-handle-nathan-lyon-in-border-gavaskar-trophy-101675513780764.html |access-date= |website=[[Hindustan Times]] |language=en}}</ref> Kohli is known for his composed batting technique and versatility in his play. He scores runs between [[Long off|long-off]] and [[Long on|long-on]] with an aligned bat, while also possessing the ability to display a destructive streak. His combination of bat-speed and supple wrist movements enable him to craft innovative angles that disrupt traditional field positioning.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Dinakar |first=S. |date=28 March 2016 |title=Kohli's technique both unique and complete |url=https://www.thehindu.com/sport/cricket/world-cup/a-technique-both-unique-and-complete/article8406266.ece |url-status=live |website=[[The Hindu]]}}</ref> Kohli is also a proficient fielder, recognized for his quick reflexes and sure-handedness.

However, Kohli has a known vulnerability to deliveries that are wide of the [[Off stump|off-stump]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Gardner |first=Ben |date=2018-07-31 |title=Analysis: The evolving genius of Virat Kohli (and how to stop him) |url=https://wisden.com/stories/stats-analysis/virat-kohli-batting-analysis-england |access-date= |website=[[Wisden]] |language=en-GB}}</ref> Bowlers often exploit this weakness by targeting him with such deliveries, especially in Test and ODl matches.<ref>{{cite web |last=Krishnaswamy |first=Karthik |date=29 Dec 2021 |title=The yin and yang of Kohli's cover drive |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/sa-vs-ind-1st-test-2021-the-yin-and-yang-of-virat-kohlis-cover-drive-1294809 |access-date=15 February 2022 |work=[[ESPN cricinfo]]}}</ref> This vulnerability has resulted in Kohli's dismissal on numerous occasions.<ref>{{cite web |date=11 Aug 2014 |title=Not getting into swing of things, Virat on his knees |url=http://www.tribuneindia.com/2014/20140811/sports.htm#1 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304070834/http://www.tribuneindia.com/2014/20140811/sports.htm#1 |archive-date=4 March 2016 |access-date=18 October 2015 |work=[[The Tribune (Chandigarh)|The Tribune]] |place=Chandigarh}}</ref><ref name="Kohli's weakness grows wider">{{Cite web |last=Monga |first=Sidharth |date=29 Jul 2014 |title=Kohli's weakness grows wider |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/monga-virat-kohli-s-weakness-grows-wider-765485 |access-date=25 October 2021 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |place=Ageas Oval |language=en}}</ref> Cricket experts such as [[VVS Laxman]] and former India cricketer [[Sanjay Manjrekar]] have acknowledged this weakness,<ref>{{Cite web |last=Prabhu |first=Anuj Nitin |date=1 Sep 2021 |title=Virat Kohli will need to work on his weakness outside off-stump"- VVS Laxman |url=https://www.sportskeeda.com/cricket/news-ind-vs-eng-2021-virat-kohli-will-need-work-weakness-outside-off-stump-vvs-laxman |url-status=live |website=sportskeeda}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=26 Aug 2021 |title=Virat Kohli Has Got A Very Obvious Weakness, Says Sanjay Manjrekar |url=https://uk.sports.yahoo.com/news/virat-kohli-got-very-obvious-105305030.html |access-date=4 March 2022 |website=[[Yahoo]] |language=en-GB}}</ref> and former New Zealand cricketer [[Richard Hadlee]] has also noted that Kohli is particularly susceptible to [[Outswinger|out-swinging]] deliveries.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Dinakar |first=S. |date=March 2020 |title=Richard Hadlee: Southee is Kohli's weakness |url=https://sportstar.thehindu.com/cricket/richard-hadlee-interview-new-zealand-india-test-series-jasprit-bumrah-kohli-smith-drs/article30956499.ece |access-date=25 October 2021 |website=[[Sportstar]] |language=en}}</ref>

* {{Cite web |date=16 May 2021 |title=Virat Kohli is best batsman in world, will always remember him, says Tim Paine |url=https://www.thehindu.com/sport/cricket/virat-kohli-is-best-batsman-in-world-will-always-remember-him-says-tim-paine/article34572064.ece |url-status=live |website=[[The Hindu]] |place=Melbourne}}

* {{Cite web |last=Chandra |first=Kathakali |date=12 Sep 2022 |title=Virat Kohli is one of the best cricketers on earth. He's great for cricket: Brett Lee |url=https://www.forbesindia.com/article/lifes/virat-kohli-is-one-of-the-best-cricketers-on-earth-hes-great-for-cricket-brett-lee/79721/1 |url-status=live |website=[[Forbes India]]}}

* {{Cite web |last=Chappell |first=Greg |author-link=Greg Chappell |date=11 Dec 2020 |title=Hail to the King: How Virat Kohli became the best player in the world |url=https://www.smh.com.au/sport/cricket/hail-to-the-king-how-virat-kohli-became-the-best-player-in-the-world-20201211-p56mnx.html |url-status=live |website=[[The Sydney Morning Herald]]}}</ref> In ODIs, he boasts an average of 66 runs when batting second and 48 runs when batting first.<ref name="odisummary">{{cite web |title=Statistics / Statsguru / V Kohli / One-Day Internationals |url=http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/player/253802.html?class=2;template=results;type=batting |url-status=live |archive-url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/player/virat-kohli-253802 |archive-date=19 September 2015 |access-date=24 October 2022 |publisher=ESPN cricinfo}}</ref> He has amassed 26 of his 46 ODI hundreds in run-chases, and holds the record for the most hundreds scored when batting second.<ref>{{cite web|title=Statistics / Statsguru / One-Day Internationals / Batting records|url=http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/stats/index.html?class=2;filter=advanced;innings_number=2;orderby=hundreds;size=100;template=results;type=batting|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150217232306/http://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/engine/stats|archive-date=17 February 2015|access-date=28 June 2015|publisher=ESPN cricinfo}}</ref> In reference to his success while batting second, Kohli has expressed a fondness for the challenge of chasing, relishing the opportunity to test himself and demonstrate his ability to efficiently manage strike rotation and execute boundary hits.<ref>{{cite web |last=Dutta |first=Sahil |date=8 September 2011 |title=India seek comfort in youth |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/india-tour-of-england-2011-474450/england-vs-india-3rd-odi-474479/match-preview |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150604160329/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/story/531613.html |archive-date=4 June 2015 |access-date=26 April 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> His colleagues admire his self-assurance, dedication, concentration, and work ethic, which are the driving forces behind his success.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Villiers |first1=A. B. de |author-link=AB de Villiers |date=8 May 2016 |title=Virat Kohli is pure class |newspaper=[[The Hindu]] |url=http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-sports/virat-kohli-is-pure-class/article8574090.ece |url-status=live |url-access=subscription |access-date=24 June 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180303200120/http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-sports/virat-kohli-is-pure-class/article8574090.ece |archive-date=3 March 2018}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Smyth |first=Rob |date=2012-10-03 |title=Why Virat Kohli should be the next superstar of world cricket |language=en-GB |work=[[The Guardian]] |url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2012/oct/03/the-spin-virat-kohli |access-date= |issn=0261-3077}}</ref>

Kohli's batting style and approach to the game have frequently drawn comparisons to the legendary [[Sachin Tendulkar]], who he regarded as the epitome of excellence in the sport of cricket. Dubbed as Tendulkar's "successor",<ref name="king2">{{cite web |last=Chappell |first=Ian |author-link=Ian Chappell |date=3 November 2013 |title=The king and his heir |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/ian-chappell-on-the-batting-skills-of-sachin-tendulkar-and-virat-kohli-685039 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140708194251/http://www.espncricinfo.com/magazine/content/story/685039.html |archive-date=8 July 2014 |access-date=9 July 2014 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref><ref name="donald2">{{cite web |last=Monga |first=Sidharth |date=18 December 2013 |title=Kohli makes a Tendulkar-like ton |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/story/kohli-makes-a-tendulkar-like-ton-701693 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150604160359/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/story/701693.html |archive-date=4 June 2015 |access-date=9 July 2014 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher= |place=Johannesburg}}</ref> he is widely considered to have the potential to surpass his records in the future.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Ronay |first=Barney |author-link=Barney Ronay |date=2017-12-08 |title=Sorry celestial Sachin but Virat Kohli has taken command of the space fleet |language=en-GB |work=[[The Guardian]] |url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/blog/2017/dec/08/virat-kohli-sachin-tendulkar-india-cricket-space-fleet |access-date=2019-02-06 |issn=0261-3077}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |date=2022-09-19 |title=Never say never with Virat Kohli, can go past Sachin Tendulkar: Ricky Ponting |work=[[The Times of India]] |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/news/never-say-never-with-virat-kohli-can-go-past-sachin-tendulkar-ricky-ponting/articleshow/94309509.cms |access-date=2023-02-05 |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> His reverence for Tendulkar as a role model, who he idolized in his formative years and sought to emulate, is well-documented. Kohli has stated that he tried to mirror Tendulkar's style of batting, imitating his shots and attempting to hit sixes in a similar manner.<ref>{{Citation |last=Bensinger |first=Graham |title=Virat Kohli: My idol Sachin Tendulkar |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DilQCHSjD1w |publication-date=4 Sep 2019 |type=Video |language=en |access-date= |author-link=Graham Bensinger}}</ref> Kohli's aggressive and dynamic style has earned him accolades from cricketing greats such as Vivian Richards, who has acknowledged Kohli's similarities to his own playing style.<ref name="himself">{{cite web |date=25 April 2013 |title='Kohli reminds me of myself' – Viv Richards |url=http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/story/632180.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171023122236/http://www.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/story/632180.html |archive-date=23 October 2017 |access-date=4 May 2015 |website=[[ESPNcricinfo]] |publisher=}}</ref> He has been lauded as the "new king of world cricket" by Dean Jones, a former Australian cricketer.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2 Jan 2015 |title=Virat Kohli is the new king of world cricket, says Dean Jones |url=https://www.cricketcountry.com/news/virat-kohli-is-the-new-king-of-world-cricket-says-dean-jones-231613 |url-status=live |access-date=12 Jan 2023 |website=Cricket County}}</ref> While Indian commentator [[Aakash Chopra]] has noted that Tendulkar possessed a broader array of shots,<ref>{{cite web |date=4 January 2022 |title='Sachin had more shots than Virat': Former India batter says he doesn't expect Kohli to play a Tendulkar-like SCG knock |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/cricket/sachin-had-more-shots-than-virat-former-india-batter-aakash-chopra-says-he-doesn-t-expect-kohli-to-play-a-tendulkar-like-scg-knock-101641262191187.html |access-date=15 January 2022 |work=[[Hindustan Times]]}}</ref> Kohli's skills with the bat have earned him accolades from former West Indies great [[Brian Lara]], who has ranked him among the best batsmen in the world alongside [[Joe Root]], the England captain at the time.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Dasgupta |first=Shamya |date=2018-11-04 |title='Kohli, Root Keeping Cricket Relevant' – Brian Lara |url=https://wisden.com/stories/news-stories/kohli-root-cricket-brian-lara |access-date= |website=[[Wisden]] |language=en-GB}}</ref>

In 2008, Kohli was approached by [[sports agent]] Bunty Sajdeh of Cornerstone Sport and Entertainment after his notable performance in the ICC Under-19 World Cup. Sajdeh was impressed with Kohli's leadership skills and attitude and saw great potential in the young cricketer. After being recommended by Yuvraj Singh, Kohli was signed to Cornerstone Sport and Entertainment.<ref name="jerry">{{cite web |last=Abraham |first=Derek |date=24 November 2013 |title=You can call him Jerry Maguire |url=http://www.dnaindia.com/sport/report-you-can-call-him-jerry-maguire-1924003 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150506210508/http://www.dnaindia.com/sport/report-you-can-call-him-jerry-maguire-1924003 |archive-date=6 May 2015 |access-date=28 May 2015 |website=[[DNA India]] |publisher=}}</ref> Over the years, Kohli's brand endorsement portfolio has experienced significant growth. In 2013, it was reported that his endorsements were valued at over {{INRConvert|1|b}}.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Srinivasan |first1=Lalitha |last2=Sinha |first2=Ashish |date=19 Mar 2013 |title=Brand Virat Kohli is now worth Rs 100 crore |url=http://archive.indianexpress.com/news/brand-virat-kohli-is-now-worth-rs-100-crore/1089766/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151222151949/http://archive.indianexpress.com/news/brand-virat-kohli-is-now-worth-rs-100-crore/1089766/ |archive-date=22 December 2015 |access-date=24 December 2015 |website=[[The Indian Express]] |publisher= |page=1 |language=en}}</ref> Now in 2023, his brand value has reached {{INRConvert|1000|c}}.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2023-06-18 |title=Virat Kohli's net worth crosses Rs 1,000 crore mark |work=[[The Times of India]] |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/off-the-field/virat-kohlis-net-worth-crosses-rs-1000-crore-mark/articleshow/101085767.cms |access-date=2023-07-03 |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> His bat deal with [[MRF Limited|MRF]] is regarded as one of the most financially rewarding deals in cricket history.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Laghate |first=Gaurav |date=2017-06-13 |title=Virat Kohli renews bat sponsorship deal with MRF for over Rs 100 crore for 8 years |work=[[The Economic Times]] |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/services/advertising/virat-kohli-renews-bat-sponsorship-deal-with-mrf-for-over-rs-100-crore-for-8-years/articleshow/59116458.cms?from=mdr |access-date=2020-08-18 |issn=0013-0389}}</ref> In 2017, Kohli entered into a notable endorsement agreement with [[Puma (brand)|Puma]] that spanned over eight years and was estimated to be worth around {{INRConvert|1.1|b}}. This deal made Kohli the first Indian athlete to sign a brand endorsement contract valued at {{INRConvert|100|c|year=2017}} deal with a brand.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Mishra |first1=Digbijay |last2=Rao |first2=K Shriniwas |date=20 Feb 2017 |title=Virat Kohli strikes Rs 100-crore deal with Puma |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/off-the-field/virat-kohli-strikes-rs-100-crore-deal-with-puma/articleshow/57243206.cms |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170220091647/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/off-the-field/virat-kohli-strikes-rs-100-crore-deal-with-puma/articleshow/57243206.cms |archive-date=20 February 2017 |access-date=20 February 2017 |work=[[The Times of India]]}}</ref> {{As of|2023|January}}, Kohli is widely regarded as the most marketable cricketer, with annual earnings estimated at  {{INRConvert|165|c|year=2022}}.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Saeed |first=Umalma |date=3 November 2022 |title=Virat Kohli is the world's most marketable cricketer in 2022 with an annual earning of over Rs 165 Crore. |url=https://www.gqindia.com/sports/content/virat-kohli-is-the-worlds-most-marketable-cricketer-in-2022-with-an-annual-earning-of-over-rs-165-crore-check-out-the-worlds-top-10-marketable-sportsperson#:~:text=Sports-,Virat%20Kohli%20is%20the%20world's%20most%20marketable%20cricketer%20in%202022,the%20top%2010%20marketable%20sportsperson&text=SportsPro%2C%20a%20UK%2Dbased%20media,in%20the%20world%20for%202022. |url-status=live |website=[[GQ India]]}}</ref> Kohli is currently recognized as the [[List of most-followed Instagram accounts#Most-followed accounts|most followed Asian individual]] on the social media platform [[Instagram]], boasting over 237 million followers on the platform. Reports indicate that he is able to command a fee of {{INRConvert|8.9|c|year=2022|to=USD}} for each sponsored post on the platform.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-06-18 |title=Virat Kohli's total net worth ₹1050 crores claims report: 8.9cr per Instagram post, 175cr from brand endorsements |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/cricket/89cr-per-instagram-post-175cr-from-brand-endorsements-virat-kohlis-total-net-worth-rs-1050-crores-claims-report-101687106656739.html |access-date=2023-07-03 |website=[[Hindustan Times]] |language=en}}</ref>

In 2012, Kohli was recognized as one of the best-dressed men by the fashion magazine ''[[GQ]]'', appearing on their annual list alongside prominent figures such as [[Barack Obama]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=11 Feb 2012 |title=Virat Kohli in top-10 of GQ's 'Best Dressed International Me |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/off-the-field/virat-kohli-in-top-10-of-gqs-best-dressed-international-men/articleshow/11848307.cms |access-date=1 Feb 2023 |website=[[The Times Of India]]}}</ref> Six years later, in 2018, a documentary highlighting Kohli's cricketing career was released on ''[[National Geographic]]'' channel. The film aimed to celebrate his accomplishments in the sport.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2018-09-25 |title=Sometimes I don't even look at the bowler, says Virat Kohli on 'Mega Icons' |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/sports/cricket/sometimes-i-dont-even-look-at-the-bowler-says-virat-kohli-5372567/ |url-access=subscription |access-date=2023-02-24 |website=[[The Indian Express]] |language=en}}</ref> The following year, on the eve of the [[2019 Cricket World Cup]] a tribute was bestowed upon Kohli. [[Madame Tussauds]] renowned for their lifelike wax figures, unveiled an exquisite creation of Kohli in London.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2019-05-30 |title=Virat Kohli's wax statue unveiled at Lord's stadium in London |work=[[The Economic Times]] |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/magazines/panache/icc-world-cup-present-by-madame-tussauds-virat-kohlis-wax-statue-unveiled-at-lords-stadium-in-london/articleshow/69577950.cms?from=mdr |access-date=2020-07-03 |issn=0013-0389}}</ref> Continuing the string of accolades, in 2019, on the eleventh anniversary of his international debut, Kohli was honoured with a stand named after him at the [[Feroz Shah Kotla Stadium]] in Delhi, making him the youngest cricketer to receive such a recognition.<ref name=":20">{{Cite web |date=11 September 2019 |title=Virat Kohli to have stand named after him in Feroz Shah Kotla stadium |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/sports/cricket/virat-kohli-stand-delhi-stadium-5915010/ |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |website=[[The Indian Express]]}}</ref> In November of the same year, an Indian animated superhero television series entitled ''[[Super V]]'' premiered, featuring a fictionalized portrayal of Kohli's teenage years and his discovery of superpowers.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2019-11-05 |title=Virat Kohli's Super V: Everything you should know about the animated series |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/entertainment/television/virat-kohli-animated-series-super-v-6102632/ |url-status=live |website=[[The Indian Express]] |language=en |publication-place=Chennai}}</ref>

Kohli invested in [[Indian Super League]] club [[FC Goa]], which he co-owned as of 2014, reflects his ambition to support and cultivate the growth of football in India. Beyond the realm of cricket, this venture served as a future business opportunity for him, as he sought to diversify his portfolio after retirement from the sport.<ref>{{cite web |date=23 September 2014 |title=Virat Kohli: 25, Cricket star, co-owner of ISL team FC Goa |url=http://indianexpress.com/article/sports/football/virat-kohli-25-cricket-star-co-owner-of-isl-team-fc-goa/ |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150629143639/http://indianexpress.com/article/sports/football/virat-kohli-25-cricket-star-co-owner-of-isl-team-fc-goa/ |archive-date=29 June 2015 |access-date=5 May 2015 |website=[[The Indian Express]] |publisher= |agency=Press Trust Of India}}</ref> In November 2014, Kohli partnered with Anjana Reddy's ''Universal Sportsbiz (USPL)'' to launch the youth fashion brand ''WROGN''. The brand specialized in men's casual wear clothing and entered into collaborations with prominent retail outlets such as [[Myntra]] and [[Shoppers Stop|Shopper's Stop]].<ref>{{cite news |last1=Menon |first1=Rashmi |date=21 November 2014 |title=Virat Kohli takes a 'WROGN' turn |newspaper=[[The Economic Times]] |url=http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/magazines/panache/virat-kohli-takes-a-wrogn-turn/articleshow/45228555.cms |url-status=live |access-date=28 May 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150328190153/http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/magazines/panache/virat-kohli-takes-a-wrogn-turn/articleshow/45228555.cms |archive-date=28 March 2015}}</ref> Additionally, in late 2014, Kohli became a shareholder and brand ambassador for the London-based social networking venture "Sport Convo". His involvement aimed to promote and raise awareness of the platform, which was focused on providing a space for sports fans to connect and engage with one another.<ref>{{Cite web |date=9 Dec 2015 |title=Virat Kohli's new venture Sport Convo backed by Real Madrid star Gareth Bale |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/sports/cricket/story/virat-kohlis-new-venture-sport-convo-backed-by-real-madrid-star-gareth-bale-276428-2015-12-09 |url-status=live |access-date=2022-04-27 |website=[[India Today]] |language=en |agency=Press Trust Of India}}</ref>

In 2017, Kohli entered into a partnership with the German sportswear brand, [[Puma (brand)|Puma]], to launch his athletic lifestyle brand, ''One8''. This brand offers a range of sport-related apparel, footwear, and accessories designed for active individuals.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Crossley |first=Isabelle |date=18 Oct 2018 |title=Virat Kohli launches first One8 and Puma collaborative sneaker |url=https://in.fashionnetwork.com/news/Virat-kohli-launches-first-one8-and-puma-collaborative-sneaker,1025616.html |url-status=live |website=Fashion Network}}</ref> That same year, Kohli also established Nueva, a fine dining establishment located in New Delhi. The restaurant features a South American-inspired decor accentuated with Native American artwork, providing a distinctive culinary setting.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Gujral |first=Arushi |date=13 Oct 2020 |title=5 Reasons Why Virat Kohli's Restaurant In Delhi Deserves A Visit! |url=https://www.whatshot.in/delhi-ncr/reasons-to-visit-virat-kohlis-restaurant-nueva-in-delhi-c-16420 |url-status=live |access-date=12 Jan 2023 |website=Whats Hot}}</ref> Kohli also established ''One8 Commune'', a chain of restaurant-bars that offer a modern and sophisticated ambiance that appeals to a diverse age range. This marked his inaugural foray into the food and beverage industry. The first outlet of this restaurant was launched in 2017.<ref>{{cite web |last=Khatib |first=Hasina |date=6 October 2022 |title=Exclusive: Virat Kohli's one8 commune opens in an iconic space in Mumbai |url=https://www.vogue.in/culture-and-living/content/exclusive-virat-kohlis-one8-commune-opens-in-kishore-kumars-bungalow-in-mumbai |website=[[Vogue India|Vogue]]}}</ref>

In 2022, Kohli and his spouse made an investment of {{INRConvert|2.5|c|year=2020}} in ''Digit'', an insurance-based startup.<ref>{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=16 Aug 2022 |title=What Is Digit Insurance Where Virat Kohli, Anushka Sharma Invested Rs 5 Crore? |url=https://www.livemint.com/market/ipo/virat-kohli-backed-digit-insurance-files-for-ipo-11660630696220.html |url-status=live |website=[[Live Mint]]}}</ref> Additionally, they also extended their support to ''Blue Tribe'', a startup that specializes in the production and distribution of [[plant-based meat]] products. Driven by his own inclination towards a plant-based diet, Kohli aims to raise awareness and encourage individuals to adopt more sustainable and environmentally conscious practices.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Hariharan |first=Sindhu |date=8 February 2022 |title=Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma back plant-based meat brand Blue Tribe |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/virat-kohli-and-anushka-sharma-back-plant-based-meat-brand-blue-tribe/articleshow/89426779.cms |url-status=live |access-date=31 December 2022 |website=[[The Times Of India]]}}</ref>

Kohli's foundation has organized several charity events to raise funds for its causes, including football matches featuring prominent Indian cricketers and Bollywood actors. The first such event was a celebrity football match in collaboration with [[Abhishek Bachchan]]'s charity foundation, which drew significant media attention and was successful in raising funds.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2017-10-09 |title=Celebrity Clasico: Virat Kohli to lead All Heart FC against All Stars FC |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/sports/sport-others/celebrity-clasico-virat-kohli-to-lead-all-heart-fc-against-all-stars-fc-4882303/ |access-date= |website=[[The Indian Express]] |language=en}}</ref> In this match, Kohli captained the All Hearts FC against the All Stars FC, led by Abhishek Bachchan.<ref>{{cite news |date=5 Jun 2016 |title=Virat Kohli Foundation: All you need to know about it |work=sportskeeda |url=https://www.sportskeeda.com/cricket/virat-kohli-foundation-all-you-need-to-know-about-it |url-status=live |access-date=20 November 2022}}</ref> Another charity football match, dubbed the "Celebrity Clasico", was held in June 2016 in Mumbai, with Kohli once again leading the All Hearts FC against the All Stars FC, captained by [[Ranbir Kapoor]]. This event was also a major success in generating funds for charitable causes.<ref>{{Cite web |date=16 Oct 2017 |title=Celebrity Clasico: MS Dhoni's brace sets up cricketers' victory over Bollywood stars |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/sports/cricket/story/ms-dhoni-virat-kohli-celebrity-clasico-all-hearts-fc-1065421-2017-10-15 |access-date=12 Jan 2023 |website=[[India Today]]}}</ref>

In 2016, the Virat Kohli Foundation entered into a partnership with Smile Foundation to promote the empowerment of underprivileged children and young people. To kickstart this initiative, Kohli organized a philanthropic dinner at [[Hyatt Regency]] in Mumbai, graced by the presence of cricketing luminaries such as MS Dhoni, Shikhar Dhawan, Yuvraj Singh, Ajinkya Rahane, and [[KL Rahul]] to support the cause of child and youth empowerment.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Smile Foundation Charity Dinner, 2016 in Mumbai - Raised over Rs. 1 Crore |url=https://viratkohli.foundation/causes-supported/ |url-status=live |website=Virat Kohli Foundation}}</ref> To advance the goals of the [[Swachh Bharat Mission]] (SBM), which aims at creating a cleaner India, Kohli and the Indian cricket team, in collaboration with Anurag Sharma, undertook a cleaning initiative at the [[Eden Gardens]] on the occasion of [[Gandhi Jayanti]] of 2016.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2016-10-02 |title=Virat Kohli, Anurag Thakur join Swachh Bharat movement at Eden Gardens |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/sports/cricket/india-vs-new-zealand-2nd-test-team-india-anurag-thakur-join-swachh-bharat-movement-at-eden-gardens-3061720/ |access-date= |website=[[The Indian Express]] |language=en}}</ref>

In response to the [[COVID-19 pandemic]] of 2020, Kohli and his wife Anushka Sharma pledged donations to the PM Relief Fund and the Maharashtra CM Relief Fund.<ref>{{Cite web |date=7 May 2021 |title=Virat Kohli, Anushka Sharma donate ₹2 crore in COVID-19 fight |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/virat-kohli-anushka-sharma-donate-2-crore-in-covid-19-fight/article34504443.ece |website=[[The Hindu]]}}</ref> The couple has a strong passion for animal welfare and have made personal contributions towards wildlife relief efforts. Through his support of [[Awaaz Foundation|Awaaz]], Kohli seeks to provide comprehensive medical services, shelter, and sustenance to stray animals.<ref>{{Cite web |date=4 April 2021 |title=Virat Kohli Foundation to set up animal shelters in Mumbai |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/off-the-field/virat-kohli-foundation-to-set-up-animal-shelters-in-mumbai/articleshow/81896410.cms |url-status=live |access-date=31 December 2022 |website=[[The Times Of India]]}}</ref>

Kohli holds a prominent place in the annals of Indian cricket. He has the distinction of being the only cricketer to have been named the Player of the Tournament in the T20 World Cup on two separate occasions, in [[2014 ICC World Twenty20|2014]] and [[2016 ICC World Twenty20|2016]].<ref name=":22">{{Cite web |last=Sen |first=Deeptesh |date=20 April 2016 |title=ICC World T20 2016: Virat Kohli proud of winning second consecutive Man of the Tournament award |url=https://www.sportskeeda.com/cricket/icc-world-t20-2016-virat-kohli-proud-winning-second-consecutive-man-of-tournament-award |url-status=live |access-date=7 December 2022 |website=sportskeeda}}</ref> In terms of ODI centuries, he ranks second with 46, behind Sachin Tendulkar who holds the record with 49.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Records {{!}} One-Day Internationals {{!}} Batting records {{!}} Most hundreds in a career {{!}} ESPNcricinfo.com |url=https://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/records/282935.html |access-date=6 September 2021 |website=[[ESPN Cricinfo]]}}</ref>  Furthermore, in international cricket, Kohli has amassed 75 centuries, once again second only to Sachin Tendulkar's 100 centuries.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Records {{!}} Combined Test, ODI and T20I records {{!}} Batting records {{!}} Most hundreds in a career |url=https://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/records/284175.html |access-date=6 September 2021 |website=[[ESPN Cricinfo]]}}</ref> In 2018, Kohli set a  record, becoming the first player to score 1,000 ODI runs in 11 innings in a calendar year.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2018-10-24 |title=Run-machine Virat Kohli scores fastest 1000 ODI runs in a calendar year |work=[[The Times of India]] |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/cricket/west-indies-in-india/run-machine-virat-kohli-scores-fastest-1000-odi-runs-in-a-calendar-year/articleshow/66348873.cms |access-date=2023-02-05 |issn=0971-8257}}</ref> In 2022, he achieved another milestone by scoring 1,000 runs in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup, becoming the second player to reach this feat after Mahela Jayawardene.<ref>{{Cite web |date=30 Oct 2022 |title=Virat Kohli becomes second batter to score 1000 runs in T20 World Cup history |url=https://sportstar.thehindu.com/cricket/t20-world-cup/news/ind-vs-sa-virat-kohli-t20-world-cup-record-stats-1000-runs-2nd-player-in-history-mahela-jayawardene-india-south-africa/article66073610.ece#:~:text=India's%20Virat%20Kohli%20became%20the,at%20Perth%20Stadium%20on%20Sunday. |url-status=live |access-date=13 Jan 2023 |website=[[Sportstar]]}}</ref> During match against Bangladesh Kohli etched his name for the highest number of runs scored in the tournament.<ref>{{Cite news |last= |date=2022-11-02 |title=Virat Kohli becomes top run-scorer in T20 World Cup history |language=en-IN |work=[[The Hindu]] |url=https://www.thehindu.com/sport/cricket/virat-kohli-becomes-top-run-scorer-in-t20-world-cup-history/article66085878.ece |access-date=2023-02-05 |issn=0971-751X}}</ref>

* Most ODI centuries while chasing (26).<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kaul |first=Disha |date=31 January 2022 |title=Top 5 players with most ODI centuries while chasing |url=https://www.sportsbignews.com/cricket/top-5-players-with-most-odi-centuries-while-chasing/ |url-status=live |website=Sports BigNews}}</ref>

* Highest career batting  average in T20I - 52.73.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Records {{!}} T20 International {{!}} Highest Career Batting Averages |url=https://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/records/282912.html |url-status=live |website=ESPN cricinfo}}</ref>

* '''Fastest to -''' 3,000 runs(81 innings)<ref>{{Cite web |last=Menon |first=Mohandas |date=2021-04-16 |title=Virat Kohli first to 3,000 runs in T20Is |url=https://sportstar.thehindu.com/statsman/virat-kohli-t20-runs-rohit-sharma-brendon-mccullum-cricket-stats-krunal-pandya/article64863534.ece |access-date=2022-09-24 |website=[[Sportstar]] |language=en}}</ref> 3,500 runs(96 innings)<ref>{{Cite web |title=Records {{!}} T20 International {{!}} Fastest to 3,500 runs |url=https://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/records/1335854.html |url-status=live |website=ESPN cricinfo}}</ref>

* Most player of the match(15 times)<ref>{{Cite web |title=Records {{!}} T20 International {{!}} Most Player-Of-The-Match Awards |url=https://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/records/283472.html |url-status=live |website=ESPN cricinfo}}</ref> and player of the series awards(7 times).<ref>{{Cite web |title=Records {{!}} T20 International {{!}} Most Player-Of-The-Series Awards |url=https://stats.espncricinfo.com/ci/content/records/1219894.html |url-status=live |website=ESPN cricinfo}}</ref>

* Only player to be involved in three double-century plus stands, two times with [[AB de Villiers]] and once with [[Chris Gayle]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=4 October 2021 |title=Only player to be involved in three double-century plus stands |url=https://crictoday.com/cricket/feature-cricket/10-unique-records-held-by-virat-kohli-in-the-ipl/ |url-status=live |website=crictoday}}</ref>

* Most runs against [[Delhi Capitals]](1030).<ref name=":14">{{Cite web |title=Virat Kohli IPL Records |url=https://www.sportskeeda.com/cricket/virat-kohli-ipl-records |url-status=live |website=sportskeeda}}</ref>

* [[Wisden Leading Cricketer in the World]]: 2016, 2017, 2018<ref>{{Cite web |title=Leading Cricketer in the World |url=https://www.bloomsbury.com/uk/discover/wisden/wisden-honours/leading-cricketer-in-the-world/ |url-status=live |website=[[Bloomsbury Publishing|Bloomsbury]]}}</ref>

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