Virat Kohli has offered a fascinating insight into what he believes makes the perfect ODI batter. The former India captain was asked to build his ultimate batter by selecting different players for specific shots and skills. Rather than choosing one player outright, Kohli combined the strengths of seven legendary names from different eras.
His selections cover everything from classical strokeplay and attacking shots to six-hitting and running between the wickets. The video of Kohli making his picks has given fans another glimpse into his admiration for some of the greatest ODI batters the game has produced.
Kohli picks seven stars for his ultimate ODI batter
Kohli chose Sachin Tendulkar for the straight drive and Kumar Sangakkara for the cover drive, bringing together two of the most stylish stroke-makers in ODI cricket. For the flick, Kohli went with Rahul Dravid, while Virender Sehwag was his choice for the cut shot. Kohli picked Matthew Hayden for the sweep, adding another dimension to the batter’s ability against spin.
For power, Kohli selected Chris Gayle for six-hitting. He completed his seven-player combination by choosing AB de Villiers for running between the wickets. The choices bring together a fascinating mix of technique, power, innovation and athleticism, with each player contributing a particular skill to Kohli’s imagined complete ODI batter.
Here’s the video:
Who makes the ultimate ODI batter? 🧐#ViratKohli builds his ultimate ODI batter shot by shot, and his picks are pure class! 👑👌
WATCH #INDvWI | 2nd ODI 👉 WED, 30th SEP, 1 PM pic.twitter.com/vkXDcl5i9L
— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) September 28, 2026
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Kohli continues to make headlines with his ODI batting
Kohli’s selections come shortly after another memorable ODI performance for India. He smashed an unbeaten 139 against West Indies in the first ODI at Thiruvananthapuram as India secured an eight-wicket victory. The century was Kohli’s 55th in ODIs and his 86th across international cricket.
He also crossed the landmark of 15,000 ODI runs during the innings, becoming the second batter after Tendulkar to reach the milestone. Kohli’s latest performance further underlined his enduring impact in the format, while his latest dream-batter exercise has provided an interesting look at the players and skills he rates highly in ODI cricket.
Also READ: Mohammad Kaif praises Virat Kohli’s hunger and dedication after record-breaking ODI knock
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