Indian cricket star Virat Kohli has been recognized with the ICC ODI Player of the Year award and has been named to the ICC Men’s ODI Team of the Year 2023. The prestigious accolades were presented to him during a ceremony in New York.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) celebrated Kohli’s achievements by sharing a video on social media of him receiving the award and a cap.
This recognition comes at a significant time as Kohli’s team prepares for their opening match of the T20 World Cup against Ireland on June 5. The 35-year-old batter has made an impressive comeback in 2023 after facing a period of inconsistent performance.
In 27 ODIs this year, Kohli scored 1,377 runs, which included six centuries and eight half-centuries. He maintained an impressive average of 72.47 and a strike rate of 99.13. His highest score of the year was 166, showcasing his exceptional talent and contribution to the team.
Kohli played a crucial role in India’s victory in the Asia Cup 2023. One of his standout performances was an unbeaten 122 runs against Pakistan in a key Super Four match. His contributions were pivotal in India’s success in the tournament.
During the ODI World Cup held in India last year, Kohli further solidified his status as one of the game’s greats. He scored 765 runs in 11 matches, with an outstanding average of 95.62. His performance included three centuries and six half-centuries, with a top score of 117. This made him the tournament’s top scorer, surpassing the legendary Sachin Tendulkar’s record of 673 runs in the 2003 World Cup.
Adding to his list of achievements, Kohli scored his 50th ODI century in the semi-final against New Zealand, breaking Tendulkar’s long-standing record of 49 ODI centuries. This milestone highlighted Kohli’s enduring excellence and skill in the sport.
Now, Kohli is set to join the Indian team for the ICC T20 World Cup, which will be held in the West Indies and the USA. His recent accolades and impressive performances have undoubtedly boosted the team’s morale as they head into the tournament.
Virat Kohli’s journey in 2023 has been nothing short of remarkable. His resurgence and consistent performances have earned him these prestigious awards and recognition from the ICC. Fans and cricket enthusiasts around the world are eagerly looking forward to seeing Kohli continue his stellar form in the upcoming T20 World Cup.
