On 18th August 2008, a 19-year-old walked out to bat for India in an ODI against Sri Lanka in Dambulla. This young player, Virat Kohli, would go on to change batting, break many records, and become the heart of Indian cricket for nearly 20 years. Today, Kohli completes 17 years in international cricket. His journey from a young boy to a global star is amazing. As he stops playing T20 internationals for India, it is a good time to look at his top 3 T20 World Cup performances.

Kohli’s contribution is not just in numbers; it is also emotional. Fans have seen his fiery passion, strong intensity, and aggressive celebrations. He played many memorable innings, like his 183 against Pakistan in the 2012 Asia Cup, back-to-back hundreds while chasing against Australia, and his 82* against Pakistan in the 2022 T20 World Cup. Time and again, Kohli carried the hopes of a billion fans.

In T20 cricket, Kohli played 125 matches for India and scored 4,188 runs. His average is 48.7, and his strike rate is 137.05. His highest score is 122 not out, showing his skill to score quickly under pressure. He also made 38 fifties and one century, showing great consistency in a format where few players dominate.

1. 72*vs South Africa, 2014

Chasing 173 in the semi-final, Kohli played a great innings. He scored 72 runs off 43 balls, with five fours and two sixes, to help India reach the final. India finished as runners-up, but Kohli was named Player of the Tournament. He scored the most runs in the tournament, 319 in total.

Also Read –Not Virat Kohli, India Won Asia Cup Under 5 Different Captains; Here’s the Complete List

2. 82*vs Australia, 2016

In Mohali, India needed 161 runs, but they were 49/3. Kohli guided the team and later needed 39 runs from the last 18 balls. He scored 32 runs off 11 balls and led India to win and reach the Super 10 stage.

3. 82* vs Pakistan, 2022

India were 31/4, chasing 160. Kohli played an amazing innings with Hardik Pandya. He scored 82 runs off 53 balls and helped India win on the last ball of the Super 12 match at the MCG.

Notable mention: 76 vs South Africa, 2024

Kohli played a strong innings in the Final. He scored 76 runs off 59 balls and helped India win the T20 World Cup 2024 by seven runs. He also won the Player of the Match award.