Former Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli’s jersey number 18 holds deep emotional significance, a connection that traces back to his early days in cricket. Reports from Indian media reveal that Kohli has worn the number 18 since his Under-19 cricket days, and it has remained with him through his ODI, T20, and Test matches.
While Kohli did not initially choose the number, it became increasingly significant to him over time. For Kohli, the number 18 represents the beginning of his successful journey in cricket and life. However, the emotional weight of the number is amplified by a tragic personal loss. Kohli’s father, Prem Kohli, passed away from a heart attack on December 18, 2006. At the time, Kohli was playing a match against Karnataka, but despite the heartache, he continued to play the following day, showing his dedication to the game.
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Beyond cricket, Kohli has kept the number 18 close, incorporating it into his life in various ways. It appears in his business ventures, including his restaurant, and even on special number plates for his cars. The number 18 also has significance in Kohli’s career as he made his international debut on August 18, 2008, marking yet another milestone tied to the number.