Virat Kohli has earned the reputation of being the greatest run chaser in white-ball cricket through years of remarkable consistency in pressure situations. Whether the target has been modest or daunting, the former India captain has repeatedly delivered match-winning performances for his team, making chasing look almost routine. His calm approach, exceptional fitness and ability to accelerate at the right time have made him one of the most feared batters in ODI and T20 cricket.
Former India batter Ajinkya Rahane recently shared his thoughts on what separates Kohli from every other batter while chasing. Speaking on the Stick to Cricket podcast, Rahane highlighted the unique mindset and calculations that have helped Kohli dominate successful run chases throughout his career.
Ajinkya Rahane reveals Virat Kohli’s secret behind successful run chases
Rahane believes Kohli’s biggest strength is not just his batting technique but the way he plans every chase mentally. According to him, Kohli has an extraordinary ability to calculate risk and understand exactly when to shift gears without allowing the pressure of the required run rate to affect his decision-making.
The experienced batter admitted that he has tried on several occasions to learn Kohli’s approach but joked that his teammate has never revealed the secret. Rahane further added that Kohli knows precisely when to take calculated risks during a chase, allowing him to stay in control even when the required rate begins to climb.
“I think it’s his mind. The calculation in his mind. I think that’s the secret. I tried to ask him many times, but you know he doesn’t give it away. No, he will not give you any clue. But again, his calculation is fearless at times, taking, knowing when to take a risk,” Rahane said.
Former England captain Alastair Cook also praised Kohli’s remarkable judgement while batting second, saying the Indian star often takes one calculated risk at the perfect moment before returning to percentage cricket.
Virat Kohli’s remarkable chasing record
Kohli’s record while batting second in ODI cricket stands unmatched. He has scored 22 centuries in successful ODI run chases, the highest by any batter in the history of the format. The next best is Sachin Tendulkar with 14 hundreds in winning chases, while former Australia captain Ricky Ponting finished his career with eight.
Over the years, Kohli has mastered the art of pacing an innings, rotating the strike consistently, punishing loose deliveries and ensuring India remain in control throughout a chase. His ability to absorb pressure and finish games has played a major role in many of India’s biggest victories in white-ball cricket.
Although Kohli retired from Test cricket earlier this year, he continues to be a vital member of India’s limited-overs setup. He is expected to return to international action during the upcoming three-match ODI series against Afghanistan, beginning on August 13, where fans will once again hope to witness another classic chase from one of the greatest finishers the game has ever seen.
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