Title: I really want to score 10,000 runs in Test cricket, said Virat Kohli in 2013
When Virat Kohli announced his retirement from Test cricket on Monday, fans and cricket enthusiasts worldwide were left stunned. The 36-year-old had been an integral part of the Indian Test team for over a decade, and his contributions to the team’s success cannot be overstated. As Kohli hung up his boots, many were left wondering what could have been, had he achieved his childhood dream of scoring 10,000 runs in Test cricket.
In 2013, when Kohli was still in his prime, he shared his ambition with the world. In an interview, he expressed his desire to score 10,000 runs in Test cricket, a feat that fewer than 15 players have achieved in the history of the game. “That’s something I really want to achieve,” Kohli said, his determination and passion evident in his words.
Fast forward to today, Kohli has scored 9,230 runs in 123 Tests at an average of 46.85. He has slammed 30 hundreds and 51 fifties, cementing his place as one of the greatest batsmen of his generation. While he may not have reached the 10,000-run mark, his achievements in Test cricket are nothing short of remarkable.
Kohli’s journey to the top was not without its challenges. He made his Test debut in 2011 at the age of 22 and struggled to find his footing initially. He averaged just 21.90 in his first 10 Tests, with a highest score of 119. However, he worked tirelessly on his game, refining his technique and developing his mental toughness.
The turning point came in 2013, when Kohli scored three centuries in a Test series against Australia. His average in that series was 141.33, and he showed the world that he was a force to be reckoned with. From then on, Kohli went on to dominate Test cricket, becoming one of the most feared batsmen in the world.
Kohli’s career is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and passion for the game. He has played for India in 123 Tests, and his 9,230 runs are a testament to his incredible consistency and longevity. He has also scored 7,814 runs in ODIs and 3,555 runs in T20Is, making him one of the most successful batsmen in the world across all formats.
Kohli’s retirement from Test cricket marks the end of an era, and fans will miss his aggressive batting style and leadership on the field. While he may not have achieved his childhood dream of scoring 10,000 runs in Test cricket, his contributions to the game will be remembered for generations to come.
As Kohli himself said in 2013, “That’s something I really want to achieve.” While he may not have reached the 10,000-run mark, he has achieved so much more. He has inspired a generation of cricketers, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
