Virat Kohli, a towering figure in world cricket, has been immortalized with a striking life-size statue unveiled at New York’s iconic Times Square. This tribute, orchestrated by the International Cricket Council (ICC) as part of a drive to expand cricket’s reach in America, marks a significant moment for the sport’s globalization efforts.
Sponsored by Duroflex, an Indian mattress brand and Kohli’s endorsing partner, the statue captures the cricketer in a moment of triumph, celebrating a century with his trademark bat lift. The unveiling coincides with the ongoing T20 World Cup, where the USA is playing a pivotal role as co-host, underlining the growing interest and engagement in cricket across new frontiers.
Fans flocked to Nassau County Cricket Stadium in New York to witness Kohli in action during India’s initial matches in the tournament. The fervor surrounding Kohli’s presence reflects his enduring appeal and status as a global sports icon, resonating far beyond traditional cricketing nations.
“Just Unveiled: A larger-than-life statue of Virat Kohli at the iconic Times Square. This King’s Duty, we are going global and making history! We’re delivering great sleep and great health to Virat Kohli,” tweeted Duroflex, sharing glimpses of the grand ceremony that captured the imagination of fans worldwide. Admirers flooded social media with accolades for Kohli, lauding him as the “GOAT on the streets of the world” and celebrating his jersey number, 18, with comments like “King For A Reason.”
While Kohli’s form in the T20 World Cup has not matched his stellar performance in the Indian Premier League (IPL), his leadership alongside captain Rohit Sharma has steered India to an unbeaten streak in the competition. Despite challenges, Kohli remains a pivotal figure in India’s quest for T20 World Cup glory, with a highly anticipated semi-final clash against England scheduled for June 27 in Guyana.
The unveiling of Kohli’s statue at Times Square symbolizes not just a personal accolade but also a milestone in cricket’s journey towards global recognition and acceptance. As cricket continues to captivate new audiences worldwide, Kohli’s legacy as a modern cricketing icon continues to grow, inspiring future generations and shaping the sport’s evolving narrative on the world stage.
Virat Kohli’s Statue Unveiled Amidst T20 World Cup
