We all recognize Sachin Tendulkar as the god of cricket, revered for his consistent performance over a decade, shining in almost every match. As cricket evolves, with the T20I format gaining immense popularity, the approach to batting in this shorter format has also transformed. Contrary to the common belief that T20 cricket is all about hitting sixes, the real art of batting lies in disrupting the rhythm of the opposition. This is where Virat Kohli, often referred to as the GOAT and God of T20I Cricket, excels.

Born on November 5, 1988, in Delhi, Kohli has become a cricketing icon, known for his right-hand batting style and occasional right-arm medium bowling. His career in cricket has been characterized by ambition, technical skill, and a level of fitness that rivals top athletes worldwide.

Kohli’s batting records are extraordinary. He has scored Test hundreds against every country he has played, except Bangladesh, and has also broken Sachin Tendulkar’s most ODI hundred records in World Cup 2023, scoring hundred against New Zealand in the Semi-Final, reaching 50 ODI hundred. Let’s have a look at why he is regarded as the GOAT of T20I Cricket. 

Check records broken by Virat Kohli in World Cup 2023

Art of Batting in T20I: Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli is not just about hitting boundaries; he is a master at rotating the strike right after the boundary, keeping the scoreboard ticking and building pressure on the opposition. This strategy not only enhances his scoring rate but also contributes significantly to the team’s total. Kohli’s ability to seamlessly shift gears and control the tempo of the game sets him apart as a T20I specialist. This is why his numbers in T20I are phenomenal. Let’s look at the numbers of Virat Kohli in T20I Cricket.

Virat Kohli’s T20I Records

From 2010 to 2024, Virat Kohli played 116 T20I matches and batted 108 innings. He has scored a staggering 4037 runs, with a high score of 122*. His average of 52.42 is exceptional in the T20 format, and he strikes at 138.20. Kohli has scored one hundred and an impressive 37 fifties (the most fifties in T20Is), with a total of 361 fours (3rd in the list of Most fours in T20I) and 117 sixes.

Kohli’s record is not just about the numbers; it’s about the impact and consistency he brings to the game. His ability to chase down targets is legendary, often referred to as the most lethal batsman in chase situations. With an average over 50 in T20I cricket, Kohli stands alone in this elite category, showcasing his unmatched skill and temperament in the shortest format of the game.

Check Virat Kohli’s T20I Statistics

Best T20I Innings of Virat Kohli

Over 90,000 spectators watched a thrilling Men’s T20 World Cup 2022 match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground in which Pakistan lost to India. Virat Kohli, who played what many people think is one of the best games in T20 cricket history, saved the day at the very end.

Shaky Start

The Indian team faced a daunting challenge as they lost four early wickets, finding themselves in a precarious position. The top order, including Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul, was dismissed quickly, leaving India struggling at 45 for 4 after 10 overs. The situation demanded a miraculous performance, and that’s precisely what Virat Kohli delivered.

Kohli’s Innings

Because Virat Kohli is so good at hitting, he stepped up and did a great job. He wasn’t just playing against the bowlers; he was also up against the pressure, the demands, and the enormity of the event. The way Kohli played his innings was a mix of aggression, control, and sheer grit. He scored 82 runs without getting out. It included some amazing shots and important partnerships, especially with Hardik Pandya, who made 40.

Dramatic Final Overs

The climax of the match was nothing short of a blockbuster movie. Going into the final three overs, India needed 48 runs to win. Kohli, batting on a different level, hit two incredible sixes in the 19th over bowled by Haris Rauf. These shots drastically changed the equation, bringing the target down to a more achievable 16 off the last six balls.

In the final over, bowled by Mohammad Nawaz, the drama intensified. Kohli hit a massive six and ran three on a ball that was initially called a no-ball, adding to the tension. With two runs needed off the last ball, R Ashwin was on strike. Nawaz bowled a wide, and then Ashwin calmly chipped the ball over mid-off to secure a sensational win for India, leaving the crowd in a frenzy.

Check Virat’s Greatest ODI Innings

As we approach the T20I World Cup, it’s clear that Virat Kohli’s contribution to cricket, especially in the T20 format, is unparalleled. His ability to consistently perform under pressure, combined with his technical skill and fitness, sets him apart from other greats in the sport. While we have seen many legendary players like Sachin Tendulkar, Sunil Gavaskar, and Brian Lara, Kohli’s passion and hunger to excel in every format of the game is unmatched. Despite the physical demands of modern cricket, which often lead to injuries, Kohli continues to maintain his high standards, showcasing his exceptional talent and dedication to the sport. His record in T20I cricket, particularly, highlights his unique ability to adapt and excel in the shortest format of the game, making him a true icon and the ‘God of T20I Cricket‘.

Gamesys11 Team

At Gamesys11, our team includes dedicated blog writers, who bring a wealth of cricket knowledge and experience to our content. From early cricket careers at divisional and district levels to deep dives into statistics and player insights, our writers are passionate about the sport. They specialize in crafting engaging blogs that explore team lineups, player statistics, and strategic predictions for upcoming contests, enhancing the experience for every cricket fan.