Virat Kohli is known for his passionate and aggressive cricket. He is a player that uplifts the environment with his very presence on the field. He dominates with his bat, leadership, and approach. Kohli is one such cricketer who can sledge the entire team with his aggression. It often brings positive results for the Indian team as well as RCB (the franchise team he plays for in the IPL). However, due to his emotionally charged behaviour, he is caught in controversies as well. There have been moments in his career when Kohli was in news not for very good reasons.
Here are the top 10 controversial moments from Virat Kohli’s career that made him a hot topic in the media.
Top 10 Virat Kohli Controversial Moments in His Career
Let us go through these moments one by one to understand what went wrong. Did Kohli actually cross the limits or was it just a media narrative?
1. Middle Finger Incident vs Australia (2012)
It is a known fact that any visiting team in Australia or England has to face the crowd as well. The local audience not only cheer their teams but also brutally demoralise the opponent team. It reflected again in the test match between India and Australia in 2012 when the crowd took some offensive dig at Virat Kohli who was fielding at the boundary line.
In response, the young star Virat Kohli stuck out his middle finger at them. It was a clear violation of the players’ code of conduct. As expected, this incident ran like wildfire in International media. He was punished with 50% of the match fees. But, people on social media suggested that it was way less than what he deserved. Ultimately, the young shining start shut every mouth with a century in the fourth game in the series.
2. Heated Exchange with Gautam Gambhir (IPL 2023)
The IPL has always been high on intensity, but when Virat Kohli and Gautam Gambhir are on the same field, sparks are bound to fly. In the 2023 season, during a match between Royal Challengers Bangalore and Lucknow Super Giants, emotions ran wild once again.
After the game, Kohli was seen having an animated exchange with LSG player Naveen-ul-Haq. The situation quickly escalated when Gambhir, the mentor of the LSG side, stepped in. What followed was a fiery verbal spat between Kohli and Gambhir, with both having to be physically separated by teammates.
The video clips went viral within minutes. Social media lit up with memes, debates, and support for both sides. While some called it passion, others questioned the sportsmanship involved. Both players were fined 100% of their match fees. But for fans, it was another chapter in the Kohli-Gambhir rivalry that refuses to cool down.
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3. Outburst Against Umpiring in DRS Saga (Cape Town 2022)
Cricket is a competitive sport and sometimes the greatest players can lose their command over emotions in certain moments. During the third Test against South Africa in Cape Town in 2022, Virat Kohli lost his cool after a controversial DRS call went against India.
Dean Elgar was given not out on an LBW decision, even though ball-tracking showed it clipping the stumps. Kohli, fielding in the slips, couldn’t hold back. He walked up to the stump mic and vented his frustration openly—questioning the broadcaster, technology, and fairness of the game.
His words were sharp, and his body language said even more. “Focus on your team as well when they shine the ball… not just the opposition,” he remarked—subtly hinting at past ball-tampering controversies.
Critics called it immature; fans called it passion. But one thing was clear: when Kohli feels wronged, he doesn’t bottle it up. That day, the stump mic captured every ounce of his fire.
4. Clash with James Anderson (2014 & 2018 Series)
When two fierce competitors collide, cricket turns into theatre. Virat Kohli and James Anderson have shared one of the most talked-about rivalries in modern Test cricket—and it’s not just about bat and ball.
In the 2014 England tour, Anderson had Kohli’s number. Dismissing him multiple times, the veteran seamer didn’t shy away from sending verbal reminders. Kohli, visibly frustrated, struggled through the series, averaging just 13.50. It was a psychological battle—and Anderson was winning.
But Kohli never forgets. In 2018, he returned a different beast. With a vengeance in his eyes and a bat that spoke volumes, he scored 593 runs in the series. When Anderson tried the same old mind games, Kohli responded not just with boundaries but also with heated stares, words under his breath, and an unshakable presence.
There was no physical altercation—just simmering tension. But their exchanges became symbolic of Kohli’s evolution: from a hot-headed youngster to a fierce, self-assured giant.
5. Press Conference Statement on Rohit Sharma Rumours
When rumours of a rift between Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma began circulating in 2019, the cricket world was buzzing. Fans were divided, social media was flooded with speculation, and every gesture between the two on-field was overanalysed.
Amid this chaos, Kohli finally addressed the issue in a press conference. But instead of dodging the topic, he took it head-on. His words were firm, almost laced with disappointment: “If I don’t like a person, you will see it on my face. I’ve always praised Rohit whenever I’ve had to.”
It wasn’t just a denial—it was a clear message to the media and fans feeding off gossip. Kohli’s frustration was evident, not just because of the rumour, but because it questioned the integrity of the dressing room. The statement silenced many, but whispers lingered. For Kohli, it was a battle between honesty and perception—and one he chose to fight openly.
Also Read: How Virat Kohli Handles Criticism: Lessons in Mental Strength
6. Mic Drop Celebration vs England
Virat Kohli has never needed a stage to make a statement—just a moment. During the 2018 England tour, he found one. After years of criticism for his failure in English conditions, Kohli was on a mission. But it wasn’t just the bat that did the talking—it was also his attitude.
In the first Test at Edgbaston, Kohli scored a brilliant 149 and followed it up with a passionate celebration. After reaching the milestone, he mocked Joe Root’s earlier “mic drop” celebration by doing one of his own—with the bat. The message was loud, clear, and dripping with sarcasm.
It stirred reactions from all corners. Some saw it as classic Kohli fire; others thought it was a bit over the top. But if cricket is part drama and part skill, Kohli nailed both that day. It wasn’t just a century—it was a personal redemption, sealed with flair.
7. Verbal Duel with Steve Smith (Brain Fade Comment)
India vs Australia has always been a fiery contest—and in 2017, the heat went beyond the pitch. During the second Test in Bengaluru, Steve Smith was caught glancing toward the dressing room for help on a DRS call. It was subtle, but Virat Kohli noticed. And he didn’t let it pass.
In the post-match press conference, Kohli called it out bluntly, saying, “There’s a line, and that line was crossed.” When asked if Smith’s act was deliberate, Kohli didn’t hold back—he called it a “brain fade,” but his tone made it clear that he wasn’t buying the excuse.
The Australian media erupted, defending their captain. Smith later admitted to the mistake but claimed it was a one-off. Kohli, however, stood his ground. It wasn’t just about one moment—it was about protecting the spirit of the game. The incident added another chapter to the fierce India-Australia rivalry—with Kohli in the middle, unapologetically vocal.
8. Twitter Spat with Fans Over ‘Leave India’ Comment
Fans are the heartbeat for any sport. In India, cricket is not just another sport, it is almost like a religion. Player worship is a fact in the country. But, the flip of the coin can also create an adverse situation. The emotionally charged fans become sometimes brutal against players.
Virat Kohli is known to wear his heart on his sleeve, but sometimes, that passion spills beyond the field. In 2018, during the launch of his official app, a fan commented that they preferred watching English and Australian batsmen over Indian ones. Kohli’s reaction? Unexpected—and explosive.
He replied, “Okay, I don’t think you should live in India then… you should go and live somewhere else.” The comment triggered an immediate backlash on social media. Critics accused him of being intolerant and dismissive of fair opinion. The debate snowballed into a nationwide discussion on nationalism and freedom of expression.
Soon after, Kohli clarified that he didn’t mean it literally, urging people not to take it out of context. But the damage was done. For a man often praised for his maturity as a leader, this felt like a moment of emotional slip-up.
9. Captaincy Exit Drama with BCCI (2021–2022)
Virat Kohli is known as one of the most successful Indian captains. He succeeded the legendary Mahendra Singh Dhoni and carried the responsibilities quite well. The Indian team saw the most successful test campaigns under his captaincy. The fitness level and fielding standards raised high, and the team emerged as a side that can beat any team at their home.
Similarly, the end of Virat Kohli’s captaincy era wasn’t just a transition—it was a storm. In 2021, Kohli announced he would step down as T20I captain after the World Cup. Weeks later, BCCI dropped another bombshell—he was removed as ODI captain too, and Rohit Sharma took over.
What followed was a communication breakdown played out in public. Kohli claimed he was informed about the ODI removal just 90 minutes before the official announcement. BCCI President Sourav Ganguly, however, said Kohli was requested not to step down in T20s in the first place—creating a classic he-said-he-said moment.
Fans were divided. Whispers of ego clashes and internal rifts grew louder. For a man who had redefined Indian cricket’s aggression and fitness culture, this was not the farewell many expected.
Kohli didn’t lash out—but his silences, words, and expressions in pressers told a story of discontent. A glorious chapter ended, not with celebration, but with controversy.
10. Angry Reaction in Test vs Bangladesh (2015)
Even in low-key matches, Kohli’s intensity never dips. During the one-off Test against Bangladesh in Fatullah in 2015, a seemingly routine LBW appeal turned into a flashpoint. When the umpire turned down a confident shout from the Indian bowlers, Kohli—fielding close-in—lost his cool.
Frustrated by what he felt was a wrong call, Kohli was seen shouting angrily, throwing his hands up, and mouthing words caught vaguely on camera. His animated outburst didn’t sit well with the match officials. He was fined 15% of his match fee for showing dissent.
While it wasn’t his most explosive controversy, the moment reflected Kohli’s inner fire, how every ball, every decision mattered to him, no matter the opposition. It was also a reminder that even as captain-in-waiting, Kohli was still learning to balance passion with control. In the end, it was just another scene in the ever-burning flame that is Virat Kohli.
Also Read: The Greatest No. 4 Batsman in Test Cricket History
Media & Fan Reactions to Kohli’s Controversies
- Mixed reactions flood the scene: Every Kohli controversy sparks both support and criticism—often splitting fans and experts right down the middle.
- Media loves the drama: News outlets highlight his passion but also amplify every heated gesture or word.
- Fans defend his aggression: Many admire his fearless attitude, calling it raw honesty rather than arrogance.
- Critics question sportsmanship: Some former players and analysts see his behaviour as emotional immaturity, especially in leadership roles.
- Social media erupts instantly: Hashtags trend within minutes, turning every act into a viral talking point.
- Kohli rarely escapes scrutiny: Being a national icon, even his smallest reactions are magnified and dissected by the public eye.
Impact of Controversies on Kohli’s Brand and Career
Virat Kohli’s controversies have undeniably added layers to his public image, both as a cricketer and a brand. While moments of aggression and emotional outbursts have drawn criticism, they’ve also made him more relatable, more human. Brands often look for authenticity, and Kohli’s unapologetic persona fits that bill. His fierce passion, even when controversial, aligns with the bold, fearless image that many companies want to project.
Career-wise, these incidents haven’t dented his dominance on the field. If anything, they’ve fueled his motivation. He has repeatedly bounced back with stellar performances after every storm. Though questions were raised during the captaincy fallout, his commitment to the game never came under doubt.
Lessons Learned from Kohli’s Controversial Moments
Virat Kohli’s journey through controversy offers more than headlines—it offers lessons in growth, emotion, and accountability. His career shows that passion without control can spark brilliance but also backlash. Over time, Kohli has evolved—learning when to speak, when to step back, and when to let his bat do the talking.
He reminds us that even icons falter, and it’s how they bounce back that defines them. From public spats to leadership challenges, Kohli has faced it all under intense scrutiny—yet remained unapologetically himself. The biggest takeaway? Raw emotion needs maturity to channel it right.
Kohli’s story teaches young athletes that fire is good, but discipline is what turns it into greatness. Growth often begins where controversy ends—with reflection.
Also Read: Virat Kohli Net Worth 2025: Earnings, Assets & Investments
Frequently Asked Questions
The captaincy exit drama with BCCI between 2021–2022 stands out as Kohli’s most talked-about controversy. It wasn’t just about cricket, but also exposed internal rifts and raised serious questions about communication between India’s top players and the board.
Yes, Kohli has occasionally clarified or apologised, especially for comments that stirred public backlash. A notable instance was his “Leave India” remark in 2018, where he later explained he didn’t mean it literally and urged people not to misinterpret his words.
While controversies sparked criticism, they’ve also added to Kohli’s fearless, no-filter persona. His brand remains strong, representing passion and authenticity. Fans admire his honesty, while critics view him as overly aggressive. It’s a complex image—but undeniably impactful.
Partly, yes. Kohli often uses aggression to charge himself and his team, unsettling opponents psychologically. While sometimes instinctive, this approach also reflects his leadership style—leading from the front with visible intensity and wearing his emotions openly.
The BCCI has maintained a measured approach. While they’ve penalized Kohli for code of conduct breaches when required, they also value his contributions as a leader and player. The board generally expects players to balance passion with professionalism.
