In a landmark achievement that further cements his legacy, Indian batting maestro Virat Kohli has eclipsed former captain Sourav Ganguly in the list of all-time highest run-scorers in One Day International cricket. This significant milestone was reached during the first ODI of the three-match series against New Zealand at Hyderabad's Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Wednesday, January 11, 2023.
Kohli's Ascent in the Record Books
The moment arrived during Kohli's composed innings. Needing just 15 runs to overtake Ganguly's tally, Kohli achieved the feat and moved into the fifth position on the prestigious all-time list. Sourav Ganguly had scored 11,363 runs in 311 ODIs during his illustrious career. By surpassing this figure, Kohli has now set his sights on the next legends ahead of him.
The elite group of ODI run-scorers now reads as follows, with Kohli firmly embedded within it:
- Sachin Tendulkar (IND) - 18,426 runs
- Kumar Sangakkara (SL) - 14,234 runs
- Ricky Ponting (AUS) - 13,704 runs
- Sanath Jayasuriya (SL) - 13,430 runs
- Virat Kohli (IND) - 11,364+ runs
- Sourav Ganguly (IND) - 11,363 runs
This achievement is a testament to Kohli's remarkable consistency and longevity in the 50-over format. He reached this milestone in his 262nd ODI innings, a significantly faster rate than many of his peers, highlighting his extraordinary scoring prowess.
The Context of the Innings and Series
The first ODI against New Zealand was a crucial match for India, setting the tone for the series and the important year ahead. While the team's overall performance was the primary focus, Kohli's personal milestone added a historic layer to the contest. His innings, though not a mammoth score, was characterized by the trademark precision and intent that has defined his career.
This series against New Zealand is particularly significant as both teams are fine-tuning their combinations and strategies in the lead-up to the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, scheduled to be held in India later this year. Every performance and record in this period is being closely watched, and Kohli's return to peak form is a major positive for the Indian side.
What This Milestone Means for Kohli and Indian Cricket
Surpassing a figure like Sourav Ganguly is symbolic. Ganguly, known as the 'Prince of Kolkata', was not just a great batsman but a transformative leader who shaped modern Indian cricket. For Kohli, another modern-day great and former captain, to move past his record connects two iconic eras of the sport in the country.
Kohli's journey in ODIs has been nothing short of phenomenal. With 46 centuries and an average hovering around 58, he is already considered one of the format's greatest-ever batters. This latest achievement reinforces that status. The next target in his sights will be the tally of Sri Lankan legend Sanath Jayasuriya, who sits in fourth place with 13,430 runs.
For Indian cricket, having an active player in the top five of the all-time run-scorers list is a source of immense pride and a huge advantage. Kohli's experience and insatiable hunger for runs will be pivotal as the team gears up for the global tournament at home. His ability to chase down targets and build innings under pressure remains unmatched, and this record adds another chapter to his inspiring story of dedication and excellence.
As the series progresses, all eyes will be on King Kohli to see what other records he can rewrite, while simultaneously anchoring India's batting lineup in their quest for victory against a formidable New Zealand side.
