Virat Kohli, the star Indian batsman, has added another prestigious award to his overflowing trophy cabinet. He was presented with the ICC ODI Player of the Year 2023 award in New York, further solidifying his incredible comeback form in 2023. This recognition coincides with India’s T20 World Cup campaign opener against Ireland on June 5th.
2024: Year of redemption for Virat Kohli
The ICC’s official Instagram account shared a video of Virat Kohli receiving his award and cap, a tribute to his phenomenal batting performance in 2023. After a period of inconsistent form, the 35-year-old veteran experienced a resurgence in his illustrious career.
Across 27 ODIs, he amassed a staggering 1,377 runs at an impressive average of 72.47 and a strike rate of 99.13. This included a remarkable six centuries and eight fifties in just 24 innings, with his highest score reaching 166.
Instrumental role in Tournament Victories
Kohli played a pivotal role in India’s triumphant Asia Cup 2023 campaign. During the crucial Super Four stage, his unbeaten knock of 122 runs in 94 balls against arch-rivals Pakistan proved instrumental in securing victory.
Later in the year, the home ODI World Cup witnessed another masterclass from Kohli. He became the tournament’s top scorer, smashing an unprecedented 765 runs in just 11 matches. This feat shattered the previous record of 673 runs held by legendary cricketer Sachin Tendulkar since the 2003 World Cup. Kohli’s dominance extended beyond breaking Tendulkar’s record of most ODI tons (49) – he went on to score his 50th ODI century against New Zealand in the semi-finals.
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From ODI Glory to T20 World Cup Challenge
Now, Kohli shifts his focus to the upcoming T20 World Cup, co-hosted by the West Indies and USA. He enters the tournament on a high note, having recently bagged the Orange Cap for most runs in the Indian Premier League (IPL). In just 15 matches, he amassed 741 runs at a phenomenal average of 61.75 and a blistering strike rate exceeding 154. This included a blistering century and five half-centuries, with his highest score reaching an unbeaten 113.
With his award win and stellar recent form, all eyes will be on Kohli as he leads India’s charge for T20 World Cup glory. Can he continue his remarkable streak and add another prestigious title to his collection? The cricketing world eagerly awaits to see.
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