New Delhi, November 5, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Birthday wishes poured in for Indian batting stalwart Virat Kohli as he turned 38 on Thursday, with former teammates, fellow cricketers, BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla and his IPL franchise Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) joining fans in celebrating the star batter.
Former India opener Shikhar Dhawan praised Kohli’s passion and hunger for the game. “Happy Birthday, Virat Kohli! Your passion, hunger and love for the game continue to inspire millions. Have a fantastic year ahead, bro!” Dhawan wrote on X.
Former India batter Suresh Raina called him ‘King Kohli’ and recalled the memories he had given cricket fans over the years. “Happy Birthday, King Kohli! From breathtaking cover drives to unforgettable run chases, you’ve given cricket fans countless memories and emotions. Your passion, fighting spirit and hunger to win make you truly special. For me, watching you bat is pure joy. Keep inspiring, keep conquering and keep making India proud! Once a King, Always a King!” Raina posted.
Former India wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik also extended his wishes, writing, “Same fire, every single year. 38 never looked this fit. Happy birthday, Virat.” Pacer Mohammed Shami wished Kohli “many, many happy returns of the day” on Instagram.
BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla praised Kohli’s achievements and commitment to the sport, saying his fighting spirit and contributions had set new benchmarks for aspiring sportspersons. He wished the cricketer continued success, good health and happiness.
The BCCI also shared a creative poster featuring Kohli in his Test jersey and highlighted his international career statistics: 566 matches, 28,601 runs and 86 centuries. It also recalled his ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2011, Champions Trophy 2013 and 2025, and T20 World Cup 2024 titles.
RCB joined the celebrations, describing Kohli as the defining player of the current cricketing era. “Every era produces one player who defines it. For this era of cricket… Virat Kohli is HIM,” the franchise posted on X, adding that his performances had created lasting memories for fans.
Kohli, who has retired from Test and T20I cricket to focus on the 50-over format, remains among the most prolific batters in international cricket. He is the fastest player to reach 8,000, 9,000, 10,000, 11,000, 12,000, 13,000 and 14,000 runs in ODIs.
He has scored 15,183 runs in 318 ODIs at an average of 58.84, including 55 centuries and 80 half-centuries. He is the second-highest run-scorer in the format. In T20Is, he accumulated 4,188 runs in 125 matches at an average of 48.69, with one century and 38 half-centuries.
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