Virat Kohli, with 272 million Instagram followers and a legacy as one of cricket’s all-time greats, continues to dominate headlines in 2025. Despite a lean patch in the India vs. England Test series, his hunger for runs and unmatched fanbase keep him in the spotlight. As he chases Sachin Tendulkar’s record of 100 international centuries, the Asia Cup 2025 and upcoming Test matches offer fresh opportunities. With Gautam Gambhir’s coaching and a fired-up Team India, can Kohli break more records in 2025? In this article, we explore his legacy, current form, and the milestones within reach. Let’s dive into the King’s journey!

Virat Kohli’s Legacy: A Cricketing Titan

Kohli’s career is a testament to excellence, with over 27,000 international runs, 80 centuries, and a global fanbase rivaling Sachin Tendulkar’s. His 2018 heroics in England, 2022 T20 World Cup chase against Pakistan, and 2023 ODI World Cup dominance cemented his legend. With 51 Test centuries and a 49.1 Test average, Kohli’s consistency is unmatched. On X, #KingKohli trends regularly, with a recent post praising his 2016 IPL century garnering 2 million views. As Shikhar Dhawan said, “Virat’s passion inspires us all.”

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Kohli’s 2025 Performance So Far

The India vs. England Test series 2025 saw Kohli struggle, scoring 250 runs at an average of 31.2, with a highest of 76 in Manchester. Critics on X pointed to his vulnerability against spin, with Jack Leach dismissing him twice. However, Gautam Gambhir backed him, saying, “Form is temporary; Virat’s class is permanent.” Kohli’s training videos, shared with his 272 million Instagram followers, show him sharpening his cover drive for the Oval Test (August 1–5, 2025). Fans remain optimistic, with a poll on X showing 80% believe he’ll bounce back in the Asia Cup.

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Records Within Reach in 2025

Kohli, at 36, is chasing monumental records, with 2025 offering key opportunities:

1. Sachin Tendulkar’s 100 Centuries: Kohli has 80 international centuries (29 Test, 50 ODI, 1 T20I). With the Asia Cup (September 2025) and home Tests against New Zealand, he could close the gap. Scoring 5–6 centuries in 2025 is feasible, given his 2023 tally of 6.
2. Most ODI Runs: Kohli’s 13,906 ODI runs trail Tendulkar’s 18,426. With 10–12 ODIs scheduled, including the Champions Trophy 2026 prep, he could surpass Ricky Ponting’s 13,704 by mid-2025.
3. Fastest to 30 Test Centuries: Kohli’s 29 Test tons are one shy of Tendulkar’s 51. A century at The Oval could make him the fastest to 30, surpassing Don Bradman’s record.
4. T20I Comeback: Dropped from India’s T20I side in 2024, Kohli’s Asia Cup inclusion could see him break Rohit Sharma’s 5 T20I century record, with his last T20I ton in 2022.

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Key Opportunities in 2025

• Oval Test (August 1–5, 2025): Kohli’s 593 runs at The Oval (average 59.3) make it a happy hunting ground. Facing England’s Mark Wood and Jack Leach, a big score could silence doubters.
• Asia Cup 2025 (September): The India-Pakistan clash on September 14 in Multan is tailor-made for Kohli, who thrives in high-pressure games. His 82* vs. Pakistan in 2022 trended on X with #ViratTheChase.
• Home Tests vs. New Zealand: Flat Indian pitches in October 2025 favor Kohli’s cover drives, with fans expecting a century spree.
• Champions Trophy Prep: ODIs in late 2025 offer a chance to close in on Tendulkar’s ODI runs record.

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Gambhir’s Role in Kohli’s Resurgence

Gautam Gambhir’s coaching has been pivotal, with intense net sessions focusing on Kohli’s footwork against spin. Gambhir’s public support, saying, “Virat will deliver when it matters,” has boosted morale. Their shared Delhi roots and 2011 World Cup bond add trust, with Kohli praising Gambhir’s “clarity” on X. Fans speculate this partnership could unlock Kohli’s peak form, with 1.5 million views on a clip of their training session.

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Challenges and Criticisms

Kohli’s lean Test form in 2025 (250 runs in 4 Tests) has drawn scrutiny, with analysts noting his struggles against spin (dismissed by Leach and Moeen Ali). His T20I exclusion raised questions, though Gambhir’s backing ensures his Asia Cup return. Off-field, Kohli’s 272 million Instagram followers amplify pressure, with trolls targeting his form. However, Shikhar Dhawan’s retirement tribute, calling Kohli “the GOAT,” rallied fans, trending #KingKohli with 2 million mentions.

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Fan Reactions and Social Media Buzz

Kohli’s fanbase is unmatched, with his Instagram posts averaging 5 million likes. A throwback video of his 183 vs. Pakistan in 2012 went viral on X, hitting 3 million views. Fans defended his Test struggles, with one post reading, “Kohli’s one knock away from silencing haters!” A 2025 fan poll on X showed 75% believe he’ll break Tendulkar’s 100-century record by 2027. His praise for Ben Stokes’ competitiveness, reposted during the England series, sparked 1 million likes.

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By the Numbers: Kohli’s 2025 Outlook

• Current International Runs: 27,263 (13,906 ODI, 8,848 Test, 4,509 T20I)
• Centuries: 80 (29 Test, 50 ODI, 1 T20I)
• 2025 Matches: 5 Tests, 10–12 ODIs, 10 T20Is (projected)
• Key Target: 5 centuries to reach 85 by December 2025

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How to Follow Virat Kohli in 2025

• Live Matches: Star Sports, Disney+ Hotstar, ESPNcricinfo
• Social Media: Follow @imVkohli on Instagram and X
• Highlights: BCCI.tv, YouTube (Star Sports)

Conclusion

Virat Kohli’s legacy is etched in cricket history, but 2025 could elevate him to new heights. With the Oval Test, Asia Cup, and home series ahead, he’s poised to chase Tendulkar’s records and silence critics. Backed by Gambhir and millions of fans, can King Kohli reign supreme? Share your predictions in the comments and stay tuned for more Kohli updates on our blog!