Virat Kohli: A Legacy Etched in Cricketing Gold
As the clock struck midnight on November 5, 2025, the cricketing world celebrated a true legend: Virat Kohli turned 37. Far from just a birthday, this milestone is a powerful reminder of a career defined by relentless pursuit, record-shattering performances, and a legacy that transcends the boundary ropes .
Virat Kohli’s Record-Breaking ODI Dominance
Kohli’s name is synonymous with ODI cricket dominance. He holds the crown for the most centuries in the format, with a staggering 51 tons, having surpassed the great Sachin Tendulkar’s long-standing record [[30], [31]]. This isn’t just a number; it’s a testament to his machine-like consistency at the highest level.
His hunger for runs is legendary. He became the fastest player in history to reach 10,000 ODI runs, achieving the feat in a mere 205 innings—a record that highlights his incredible strike rate and ability to convert starts into massive scores [[23], [25]]. His ODI journey has amassed over 14,255 runs at a phenomenal average of 57.88, a statistic that places him in a league of his own [[5], [8]].
From Delhi Boy to Global Icon: A Career in Numbers
Beyond the ODIs, Kohli’s all-format brilliance is undeniable. Across international cricket, he boasts a jaw-dropping total of 82 centuries (30 in Tests, 51 in ODIs, and 1 in T20Is) . In the high-octane world of the IPL, he’s not just a participant but a trendsetter, becoming the first Indian to score over 13,000 T20 runs in April 2025 .
Even at 37, his will to win burns bright. In the 2025 Champions Trophy, he silenced critics with a match-winning, unbeaten 100 against Pakistan—a performance that was his 51st ODI century and a classic reminder of his clutch gene [[2], [37]].
Kohli’s Career at a Glance (as of November 2025)
| Format | Matches | Runs | Centuries | Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ODIs | 305 | 14,255+ | 51 | 57.88 |
| Tests | 123 | 8,848 | 30 | 49.15 |
| T20Is | 125 | 4,037 | 1 | 52.03 |
| IPL | 241 | 8,000+ | 8 | 37.00+ |
Source: Aggregated public stats from various cricketing bodies [[5], [9], [10]].
The Enduring Greatness of the King
What sets Kohli apart is his ability to bounce back. After a rare dip in form, he didn’t fade away; he roared back with a century that defined a major tournament . His dedication to fitness and his unmatched competitive spirit have allowed him to maintain world-class standards well into his late 30s. Reports suggest he’s now balancing his cricketing commitments with a quieter life in London with his family, showing a new, grounded side to the fiery competitor .
Looking Ahead
While his Test and T20I chapters may be closed, his presence in the ODI and IPL arenas remains a massive draw . As he celebrates his 37th year, fans aren’t just looking back at a glittering past but are eagerly anticipating what new records the King might yet conquer.