As Virat Kohli‘s illustrious T20I career comes to an end, it is most fitting to celebrate the moment he became a legend. Ending his T20I journey with a man-of-the-match performance in the World Cup final was typical of Kohli. Kohli left an indelible mark on the game as he led the charts with 1,292 runs in the Men’s T20 World Cup from 2012 to 2024. Let’s relive some of his best games, in which he showed why he is regarded as one of the greatest T20 players of all time.
Kohli’s unparalleled T20 World Cup statistics
Virat Kohli’s World Cup T20 numbers bear witness to his dominance: 1,292 runs in 33 innings in 35 games at an average of 58.72 and a strike rate of 128.81. Those numbers are impressive, but it’s his memorable performances under pressure that really highlight his greatness.
78* vs Pakistan, 2012
Kohli displayed his prowess against arch-rivals Pakistan in the 2012 Super Eights in Colombo. With an unbeaten 78 off 61 balls, he led India to an eight-wicket victory and won the Man of the Match award. Kohli’s innings, coupled with a crucial third-wicket partnership with Yuvraj Singh and his bowling figures of 1/21, highlighted his all-round talent.
72* vs. South Africa, 2014
The 2014 semi-final against South Africa was a Kohli classic. Chasing 173, Kohli was a masterclass in controlling the attack with 72 off 44 balls with five fours and two sixes. His innings ensured India’s place in the final and earned him the title of Player of the Tournament with 319 runs in the series.
82* vs Australia, 2016
Kohli pulled off one of the greatest T20I chases in 2016 in Mohali. India were 49/3 as Kohli scored an unbeaten 82 off 51 balls, including a staggering 32 off the last 11 balls, to lead India to victory. His precise and powerful batting is still etched in the memory of cricket fans across the world.
82* vs Pakistan, 2022
Kohli’s never-say-die spirit was on full display against Pakistan at the MCG 2022. Chasing 160, India struggled at 31/4. Kohli, who scored 82 off 53 balls, teamed up with Hardik Pandya to score an improbable victory off the last ball. The performance epitomized Kohli’s tenacity and dramatic flair.
76 vs. South Africa, 2024
In the final innings of the T20I, Kohli proved that he is the man to handle the big occasions. Despite mixed results, he stepped up to the plate in the final against South Africa, scoring 76 off 59 balls. His innings helped India win the T20 World Cup by seven runs, earning him another Man of the Match award and ending his career on a high note.
Frequently Asked Questions
Virat Kohli scored 1,292 runs in the Men’s T20 World Cup from 2012 to 2024.
Kohli averages 58.72 and has a strike rate of 128.81 in the T20 World Cup.
One of his most memorable high-scoring innings was his unbeaten 82 against Australia in 2016.
Kohli has won the Man of the Match award multiple times including outstanding performances in 2012, 2014, 2016, 2022 and 2024.
Kohli is considered a legend for his consistent performance, high scoring and crucial contributions in crucial matches.
Conclusion
Virat Kohli’s T20 World Cup journey has been filled with remarkable innings and memorable moments. From a decisive 78* against Pakistan in 2012 to a thrilling 76 against South Africa in 2024, Kohli’s performances have set the benchmark in T20 cricket. His legacy is unparalleled skill, toughness and an insatiable desire to win. As Kohli retires from T20Is, cricket fans will always cherish the memories of his illustrious career as they know that his legacy will inspire generations to come.
