Virat Kohli added another memorable chapter to his illustrious cricketing career with an impressive performance in India‘s opening ODI against New Zealand at Eden Park in Auckland. The former Indian captain played a crucial knock of 74 off just 51 deliveries, smashing 13 fours and a six before being dismissed by Jacob Duffy. His valuable contribution helped India secure a five-wicket victory in a rain-affected contest.
While Kohli’s innings played an important role in India’s successful chase, the Auckland encounter also turned out to be a special occasion for the batting superstar. He achieved three significant milestones, further strengthening his position among the greatest players to have represented India in the 50-over format.
3 records made by Virat Kohli in Auckland ODI
1) First cricketer to score 13,000 ODI runs at number three
Kohli created history by becoming the first batter to cross 13,000 runs while occupying the number three position in ODI cricket. The former Indian skipper has been a regular at this batting position throughout much of his international career. Over the years, he has established himself as a dependable presence in the middle order, often taking responsibility for stabilising the innings after an early wicket.
His latest milestone reflects the consistency he has maintained in one of the most demanding positions in the batting order. Kohli has accumulated more than 13,000 ODI runs at number three at an extraordinary average of 61.61. These numbers highlight his ability to perform against different bowling attacks and adapt to varying match situations.
Unlike openers, who generally have the opportunity to settle into an innings from the beginning, number three batters frequently have to adjust their approach depending on when they arrive at the crease. Kohli has mastered that responsibility, making the position his own over the years.
2) Kohli becomes the leading run-scorer in ODI run chases
One of the biggest achievements from Kohli’s Auckland outing was his rise to the top of the list of batters with the most runs in ODI run chases. Before the match, Kohli had accumulated 8,667 runs while batting second in ODIs, leaving him 54 runs short of surpassing Sachin Tendulkar‘s long-standing tally of 8,720 runs. However, the Indian batter made the most of the opportunity and delivered when his team needed him.
His 74-run knock took his overall tally to 8,741 runs, allowing him to move past Tendulkar and claim the top position. What makes this achievement even more impressive is the efficiency with which Kohli reached the landmark. He required only 169 innings to accumulate his 8,741 runs, whereas Tendulkar played 242 innings to register his tally.
Also READ: Virat Kohli surpasses Sachin Tendulkar in historic feat during NZ vs IND 1st ODI
3) Kohli equals Ricky Ponting’s record against New Zealand
Another significant milestone from the opening ODI involved former Australian captain Ricky Ponting. Kohli’s impressive innings against New Zealand took his career ODI run tally against the Black Caps to 1,971. With this, he equalled Ponting’s record for the most runs scored against New Zealand in ODI cricket.
Ponting enjoyed considerable success against the Black Caps during his international career, featuring in several high-profile encounters between the two sides. However, Kohli has now matched his tally and will have an opportunity to move ahead during the remainder of the series.
The Indian batter has consistently produced impactful performances against New Zealand, both at home and in overseas conditions. His ability to handle their pace attack and counter their spin options has made him a crucial player in India’s encounters against the Black Caps.
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