ICC Awards 2023 :Virat Kohli clinches the ICC Men’s ODI Cricketer of the Year Award for the fourth time
New Delhi (ICC) – Veteran Indian batter Virat Kohli was crowned the ICC Men’s ODI Cricketer of the Year 2023 for his exceptional year in the 50-over format.
Virat Kohli, who was named the Player of the Tournament at the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023, has also been honored as the ICC Men’s ODI Cricketer of the Year 2023.
Throughout the year, Kohli showcased outstanding batting performances, particularly during the home World Cup, where he set a new record for the highest run tally. His exceptional contributions significantly contributed to India’s journey to the final match.
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Virat Kohli built on his comeback in 2022 with a spectacular 2023, where he found peak form in ODIs, and capped it off with a Player of the Tournament performance at the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023.
India’s No.3 smashed at least a half-century in nine of his 11 innings at the World Cup, finishing with a mind-blowing 765 runs, the most ever scored by an individual batter at a men’s Cricket World Cup, going past the previous record set by Sachin Tendulkar in 2003.
Kohli finished the tournament with an average of 95.62 and a strike rate of 90.31, with three centuries including one in the semi-final against New Zealand.
He completed a record tally of 50 ODI hundreds with his knock in the semi-final, making him the leading century-hitter in the format’s history.
While he ended the tournament with another half-century in the final, it didn’t lead India to a victory and the stunned silence that followed his dismissal in Ahmedabad in the final was a testimony to how big Kohli was to India’s chances at the title win.
He finished the year with 1377 runs at an average of 72.47, recording six centuries and eight half-centuries in 24 innings.
Virat Kohli Achieves Record for Most ICC Awards Globally
In a historic achievement, Indian cricket maestro Virat Kohli has secured the most ICC (International Cricket Council) awards globally, cementing his legacy as one of the sport’s all-time greats. Kohli’s remarkable feat underscores his consistent excellence and unparalleled contribution to the game.
Throughout his illustrious career, Kohli has been a standout performer across all formats of the game. His unwavering commitment to excellence and relentless pursuit of success have set him apart as a cricketing icon on the global stage.
The announcement comes as a testament to Kohli’s exceptional talent and dedication to the sport. With his unmatched skills and extraordinary leadership, Kohli has not only inspired countless fans but has also set new benchmarks in the world of cricket.
Virat Kohli has made history by becoming the inaugural cricketer to clinch the ICC ODI Player of the Year award four times. Additionally, he holds the record for the highest number of runs scored by an individual in an ODI World Cup. Photo AP
Acknowledging the prestigious accolade, Kohli expressed gratitude to his fans, teammates, and the cricketing fraternity for their unwavering support and encouragement throughout his journey. He also credited his coaches, mentors, and support staff for their invaluable guidance and mentorship.
As Kohli continues to redefine the boundaries of cricketing excellence, his legacy as one of the most celebrated cricketers of all time remains firmly etched in the annals of sporting history. His remarkable achievements serve as an inspiration to aspiring cricketers worldwide, reaffirming the transformative power of passion, perseverance, and dedication in realizing one’s dreams.