Virat Kohli - the backbone of the Indian team

Virat Kohli of India dances in celebration during the victory ceremony following India’s 5 run victory in the ICC Champions Trophy Final match between England and India at Edgbaston on June 23, 2013 in Birmingham, England. (Photo by Michael Steele/Getty Images)

Virat Kohli on this day made his international debut and has completed 5 years of international cricket. His style, the manner of chasing big scores, and the aggression that he possesses on the ground is an example for youngsters.

Kohli captained the under-19 cricket team in the World Cup, winning the tournament and then burst on to the international scene. He was awarded the ODI Player of the Year award in 2012. He scored his first century against the Aussies team when the others were struggling. In the Asia Cup 2012, he scored one of the best knocks of his career, 183 while chasing 330 against Pakistan. In the IPL 6, he became the captain of Royal Challengers Bangalore. Virat has now become the backbone of the Indian team as he has the ability to tackle any situation.

South Africa will be his biggest challenge of his life, when he faces the likes of Dale Steyn, Morne Morkel and Vernon Philander in tough conditions. His batting has been of high class and should take Indian cricket forward.

The fielding of this young player looks great, as he never gives up when the chips are down. Sometimes, his aggression should be controlled if the situation gets out of hand. The ability to handle crisis situations is yet to tested against the stronger teams.

Virat Kohli had made a great contribution in the World Cup final of 2011 held in India. Chasing 275, India were struggling but Kohli and Gambhir put up a good partnership and steadied the innings. That moment onwards, his confidence increased and now he is a regular member of the Indian team.

In the CB series in 2012, against Sri Lanka, while chasing 320 in 40 overs, he played one of his finest knocks to show his talent, and plundered the best bowler, Lasith Malinga, all over the ground.

By far, in 5 years of international cricket, he has achieved a lot and we should hope that he can do much more for the team, and help the team to become the No.1 team in all formats.