Virat Kohli Opens Up on Heartbreaks, Bonds, and the Moment That Changed Everything
In a rare and heartfelt revelation, Virat Kohli has shared deep insights into his cricketing journey, reflecting on emotional setbacks, close friendships, and career-defining moments. Speaking candidly, the former India captain detailed the emotional toll of major defeats, especially the 2019 World Cup semifinal.
“I had many heartbreaks. 2014 T20 WC Final, 2015 WC Semifinal, 2016 T20 WC Semifinal, 2017 CT Final & 2019 WC Semifinal,” Kohli recalled. “And the 2019 WC Semifinal... that was the first time after the semifinal got over and next morning when you wake up, you have no kind of understanding of what you want to do. You're dazed. I had no idea what to do — whether I want to drink coffee or brush my teeth. Literally, I had no idea.”
Kohli also spoke warmly of his enduring bond with fellow cricketer Ishant Sharma, calling him a “very special individual” in his life. “Ishant is someone I naturally connected with, and absolutely nothing has changed from day one. I can share everything with him without any judgment and with complete understanding.”
Reminiscing about his early days in the Indian team, Kohli admitted to being nervous around legends like Rahul Dravid, Anil Kumble, and Zaheer Khan. However, it was Zaheer Khan, affectionately called "Zak," who helped the young cricketer feel at home. “He took me under his wing, really made me comfortable, and we formed a great relationship that continues to this day,” Kohli said.
The turning point in his career, Kohli revealed, came during the 2012 Asia Cup after a match-winning performance against Pakistan. “I did sense a change after things became different for me. That game completely changed things. When I came back after that Asia Cup, it was like I was in two different worlds. It was difficult for me to process that.”
Kohli's honest reflections give fans a rare glimpse into the emotional layers behind the legendary cricketer’s journey — a story not just of glory, but of pain, transformation, and enduring friendships.