How Delhi's Virat became the world's King Kohli: 8 pictures from Virat Kohli's early days as a cricketer

Before Virat Kohli became the face of Indian cricket, he was a young teenager who, in his early days, made all the right noises.

Updated on: May 13, 2025 5:39 PM IST

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Virat Kohli went on to become Indian cricket's beloved KING, but his rise began in Delhi, a team he played domestic cricket for years (HT Archive)

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Virat Kohli scored 1580 runs from 24 matches for Delhi in Ranji Trophy (HT Archive)

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For Delhi, Virat Kohli has a highest score 173 off 267 balls against Bengal (HT Archive)

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Virat Kohli 18 years old when he made his Ranji Trophy debut for Delhi. (HT Archive)

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Virat Kohli made his debut for Delhi in November 2006 against Tamil Nadu (HT Archive)

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Being called up for U-17 camps at the NCA, Virat shone there and caught the eye of NCA coach and junior selector Praveen Amre who called him for an India U-19 camp. (HT Archive)

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In just his second Ranji match, Kohli displayed remarkable maturity, overcoming personal tragedy with extraordinary resolve. The day after losing his father, he channelled his grief into a stirring, emotional 90, rescuing Delhi from a precarious situation against Karnataka. (HT Archive)

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Since his early days of self-doubt, Kohli has transformed remarkably. He has mastered the art of patience, learning to build an innings with composure and giving himself time to settle at the crease. (HT Archive)