Table of Contents
Indian batting maestro Virat Kohli registered his 73rd ODI half-century in a crucial knock of 52 runs against England at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium on February 12. This innings marked his first ODI fifty since the conclusion of the 2023 World Cup and came at a pivotal moment in India’s innings. Batting at number three, Kohli walked in as early as the second over and steadied the innings alongside Shubman Gill. His composed 55-ball stay featured seven exquisite boundaries and a towering six, showcasing his class and determination in leading India’s recovery.
Virat Kohli breaks Sachin Tendulkar’s record
Apart from ending his fifty drought, Kohli also achieved a historic batting milestone by becoming the fastest cricketer in history to complete 16,000 international runs in Asia across all formats. He reached this feat in just 340 innings, surpassing the legendary Sachin Tendulkar, who previously held the record by achieving the landmark in 353 innings. Kohli’s feat solidifies his status as one of the greatest batters to have played in the subcontinent, where conditions often demand exceptional adaptability and skill.
With this achievement, Kohli now has an astounding 16,025 runs in Asia across Tests, ODIs, and T20Is. His consistency and ability to dominate bowling attacks in the region have been unparalleled. His remarkable tally comprises numerous match-winning knocks, including multiple centuries and fifties, reinforcing his stature as one of the finest batters in cricket history.
| Player | Innings Taken to Reach 16,000 Runs in Asia |
|---|---|
| Virat Kohli | 340 |
| Sachin Tendulkar | 353 |
Also READ: Jasprit Bumrah’s fit enough report proved insufficient for selectors’ approval
Another feat unlocked against England
In addition to his Asian record, Kohli also became the first Indian and sixth overall cricketer to amass 4,000 international runs against England. The 36-year-old batter accomplished this milestone in his 87th match against the Three Lions. His record against England includes eight centuries and 23 half-centuries, with an average of 41.23. This milestone further underscores his ability to excel against top cricketing nations across formats. Among active players, Steve Smith leads the charts with 4,815 runs against England. Kohli, however, is the fastest Indian to achieve the feat, further solidifying his stature as one of the most prolific run-getters of his era.
A return to form for India after Test cricket struggles
Kohli’s return to form in ODIs comes after a series of underwhelming performances in Test cricket. His innings in Ahmedabad was a much-needed boost, displaying his trademark composure and stroke play. His ability to anchor the innings and counter England’s disciplined bowling attack demonstrated why he remains India’s most reliable batter across formats. Kohli’s latest fifty – his 73rd in ODIs – marked his return to form after a lean patch in Test cricket. He was eventually dismissed for 52 off 55 balls by England’s leg-spinner Adil Rashid. With multiple records to his name and his insatiable hunger for runs, Kohli continues to solidify his legacy as one of the greatest batters in cricket history. As India gears up for upcoming challenges, his form will be crucial in determining the team’s success.
