As India gears up to face Ireland in their first fixture of the upcoming T20 World Cup in the West Indies and the USA, all eyes are on Virat Kohli, the team’s talismanic player. With an impressive track record, Kohli is set to play his ninth World Cup, encompassing both ODI and T20I formats. Reflecting on his journey, Kohli shared his memories of his debut in the 2011 World Cup and his incredible performances in subsequent tournaments.
A Nervous Start in 2011
Virat Kohli made his World Cup debut 13 years ago in the 2011 ODI World Cup against Bangladesh in Dhaka. Recalling that moment on Star Sports, Kohli said, “I was the youngest member of that team and I was getting to play with all these greats of Indian cricket in a World Cup game. I was nervous. Yes, I will not lie. There is a different sense of excitement in the air when you come for a World Cup, and I could sense that.”
Despite his nerves, Kohli delivered a stellar performance, scoring 100 runs off 83 balls and remaining unbeaten. “For me, it was a moment where I was a bit nervous heading into the game and the night before I was quite nervous. But that is a good sign as well because your body is preparing you to enter a situation where you’re alert, you’re not taking things for granted. I think that nervousness helped me to be aware, be alert, and be precise in the execution of my plans,” he reflected.
Dominance in T20 World Cups
Kohli’s prowess is not limited to ODIs. He has been a consistent performer in T20 World Cups, amassing 1141 runs — the most in the history of the tournament. His ability to thrive under pressure and deliver match-winning performances has solidified his reputation as one of the finest T20 batters.
In the 2014 T20 World Cup, Kohli scored a record 319 runs in a single edition, a feat that underscores his exceptional skill and determination. He continued his dominance in the 2016 edition, scoring 296 runs and showcasing his ability to perform on the biggest stage.
Looking Ahead
On the back of a successful Indian Premier League campaign, the 35-year-old Kohli is poised for another productive World Cup. His experience and skill will be crucial for India as they aim for glory in the T20 World Cup.
Kohli’s journey from a nervous debutant to a seasoned World Cup veteran is a testament to his growth and dedication. As he prepares for yet another World Cup campaign, fans and teammates alike will be looking to him for inspiration and match-winning performances.