‘Always a King’ – Indian cricketers extend birthday wishes to Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli turned 38 on Thursday, November 5, 2026, entering the 19th year of his international cricket career. The milestone underscored his enduring presence at the highest level of the game, where he continues to compete across formats at the age when many players have retired.

During the opening ODI against New Zealand in Auckland on Wednesday, November 4, Kohli played a 51-ball 74 in India’s chase of 143 in a rain-curtailed contest. The occasion became even more special when spectators in the stands sang the ‘Happy Birthday’ song while he fielded near the boundary, adding a memorable touch to the celebration.

Wishes from the Indian cricket fraternity

Shikhar Dhawan was among the first to extend wishes to Kohli via social media, recognising his enduring impact on Indian cricket.

“Happy Birthday, @imVkohli! Your passion, hunger and love for the game continue to inspire millions. Have a fantastic year ahead, bro!” wrote Dhawan on X.

Former middle-order batter Suresh Raina shared his admiration for Kohli’s batting prowess and the memories he has created for cricket fans worldwide. Raina expressed that watching Kohli bat is pure joy, highlighting the range of his strokeplay and his ability to deliver in crucial moments.

“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! ❤️,” wrote Raina.

Manoj Tiwary of Bengal urged Kohli to continue his influence on the next generation of cricketers, emphasising the values that have defined his career.

“Happy Birthday, Virat! 🎂 Some partnerships are remembered for the runs we scored, but the special ones are remembered for the memories they create. This picture takes me back to our partnership against the West Indies — sharing the crease, building a partnership and experiencing those special moments on the field. Keep inspiring generations with your hunger, passion and unmatched commitment to the game. Wishing you many more years of success and greatness,” wrote Tiwary.

Munaf Patel posted his birthday message in both English and Hindi, extending warm wishes for Kohli’s health and well-being.

“Happy Birthday @imVkohli Wishing you healthy life ahead. Khush raho Abad raho,” Patel wrote.

Dinesh Karthik captured the essence of Kohli’s fitness and competitive spirit with his message, noting that age has not diminished his intensity or drive.

“Same fire, every single year. 38 never looked this fit, Happy birthday, Virat,” Karthik posted.

A career spanning 19 years and multiple formats

Kohli’s legendary Test career spans 123 matches and 9,230 runs at an average of 46.85, with 30 centuries and 31 fifties. He served as India’s most successful Test captain, recording 40 wins in 68 matches with 17 losses.

In ODI cricket, Kohli has featured in 318 matches across 306 innings, accumulating 15,183 runs at an average of 58.84. He has struck 55 centuries and 80 fifties, establishing himself as the second-highest ODI run-scorer globally.

His T20 International record includes 125 innings in which he has scored 4,188 runs at an average of 48.69, with 1 century and 38 fifties, making him the third-highest T20I run-getter in the world.

Across all formats combined, Kohli has played 566 matches and 633 innings, amassing 28,601 runs at an average of 52.86. He has registered 86 centuries and 149 fifties, with a best score of 254 not out, positioning him as the second-highest all-time run-scorer in international cricket.

Beyond individual records, Kohli won the 50-over World Cup, the T20 World Cup, two Champions Trophy titles, and two Indian Premier League titles, cementing his status among cricket’s elite performers.