Virat Kohli, the ‘Player of the Match’ in the T20 World Cup 2024 final, concluded his T20I career on a remarkable note. Throughout his career, Kohli established himself as a formidable force in T20I cricket, amassing the highest number of runs in Men’s T20 World Cups with 1,292 runs from 2012 to 2024, across 33 innings in 35 matches.
In the final against South Africa, Kohli played a pivotal role, scoring 76 runs to lead India to a seven-run victory. This performance not only secured India the World Cup but also marked the end of Kohli’s T20I career as India’s second-highest run-scorer in the format. He accumulated 4,188 runs in 125 matches at an average of 48.69 and a strike rate of 137.04.
As Kohli steps back from T20I cricket, it’s a perfect moment to revisit some of his most remarkable performances in T20 World Cups.
78 not out vs Pakistan, 2012
In a memorable Super Eights match in Colombo, Kohli scored an unbeaten 78 off 61 balls. His innings included a crucial third-wicket partnership with Yuvraj Singh, which helped India secure an eight-wicket victory. Kohli also contributed with the ball, taking 1/21, earning him the Player of the Match award.
72 not out vs South Africa, 2014
The 2014 semifinal against South Africa was another stage for Kohli’s brilliance. Chasing a target of 173, he scored 72 off 43 balls, hitting five fours and two sixes. His innings guided India to the final. Although India finished as runners-up, Kohli was named Player of the Tournament, having scored the most runs in the tournament with 319 runs.
82 not out vs Australia, 2016
In Mohali, Kohli demonstrated his skill in run-chases. India needed 161 runs but were struggling at 49/3. Kohli anchored the innings, and when India required 39 runs from the final 18 balls, he delivered by scoring 32 off 11 balls, leading India to a crucial win in the Super 10 stage.
82 not out vs Pakistan, 2022
In a thrilling Super 12 match at the MCG, Kohli showcased his never-say-die attitude. India was in trouble at 31/4 while chasing a target of 160. Kohli partnered with Hardik Pandya to orchestrate a stunning victory on the final ball. His unbeaten 82 off 53 balls thrilled the crowd and secured a memorable win for India.
76 vs South Africa, 2024
Kohli reserved his best for last in the T20 World Cup 2024 final. Despite an inconsistent form earlier in the tournament, he delivered a match-winning performance, scoring 76 off 59 balls. His innings earned him yet another Player of the Match award and was crucial in India clinching the title by seven runs, marking a fitting end to his illustrious T20I career.
