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[Saba Sports News] “Virat Kohli, the star Indian cricketer, will celebrate his 35th birthday in Kolkata on November 5, 2023, coinciding with Team India’s World Cup 2023 clash against South Africa at Eden Gardens. As fans eagerly await his performance on his special day, here are 10 intriguing lesser-known facts about this top-order batsman:
1. Never Auctioned in IPL: Kohli was signed by Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in 2008 without going through an auction, as Under-19 players were selected in the pre-season draft.
2. Zeroth Delivery Wicket: He is the only player to take a wicket off a zeroth delivery in T20 Internationals, dismissing Kevin Pietersen in 2011.
3. World Cup Debut Century: Kohli became the first Indian batsman to score a century on his World Cup debut in 2011.
4. Youngest ODI Cricketer of the Year: He received the ODI Cricketer of the Year award in 2012 at the age of 23.
5. Most Test Double Centuries as Captain: Kohli holds the record for the most double centuries as a Test captain.
6. 500+ Runs in a Bilateral ODI Series: In 2018, he amassed 558 runs, becoming the only Indian to score over 500 runs in a bilateral ODI series.
7. FC Goa Franchise Owner: Kohli is a co-owner of the Indian Super League (ISL) football club FC Goa.
8. Vegetarian Lifestyle: He adopted a vegetarian lifestyle in 2018 due to health reasons.
9. One of the Best Dressed Men: Kohli was named one of the 10 best-dressed international men by GQ magazine in 2012.
10. Dedication Despite Personal Loss: In 2006, Kohli continued playing in a Ranji Trophy match for Delhi despite his father’s sudden demise, scoring 90 runs.