Kohli Becomes the Highest Run-Scorer in ODI Chases
Virat Kohli created another landmark in international cricket during India’s opening ODI against New Zealand at Eden Park in Auckland.
The former Indian captain surpassed Sachin Tendulkar’s long-standing record for the most runs scored in One-Day International (ODI) run chases.
Kohli reached the milestone with an impressive innings of 74 runs from just 51 deliveries.
His knock included 13 boundaries and one six, helping India complete a five-wicket victory.
He now has 8,741 runs in ODI chases, moving past Tendulkar’s previous record of 8,720.
Kohli Adds More Milestones to His Career
The achievement further highlights Kohli’s remarkable consistency when batting second in ODIs.
He has reached his record total at an average of 66.21, compared with Tendulkar’s average of 42.33.
Kohli’s tally also includes 30 centuries and 46 half-centuries in ODI run chases.
During the same innings, he became the first batter to score 13,000 ODI runs while batting at number three.
He also drew level with former Australian captain Ricky Ponting’s record of 1,971 ODI runs against New Zealand.
India’s Bowlers Restrict New Zealand to 185
Earlier in the match, India’s bowling attack delivered an impressive performance to dismiss New Zealand for 185 in 40.2 overs.
Arshdeep Singh led the attack with four wickets, while Gurnoor Brar picked up three.
Anshul Kamboj also contributed with two wickets and was named Player of the Match.
New Zealand’s batters struggled to build substantial partnerships against India’s disciplined bowling.
The strong effort gave India an opportunity to control the contest despite interruptions caused by rain.
India Take an Early Lead in the ODI Series
Rain interruptions affected India’s chase, resulting in a revised target of 143 runs in 32 overs under the DLS method.
Kohli and Shubman Gill helped stabilise the innings after India lost Rohit Sharma early.
Gill contributed 37 runs, while Kohli continued to guide the chase with confidence.
India reached 143 for five in 22.4 overs to secure a five-wicket win.
The victory gave India a 1-0 lead in the five-match ODI series against New Zealand.