Published on: Oct 9, 2025 4:44 pm IST|Updated on: Oct 9, 2025 4:48 pm IST
Every sport produces greats, and cricket is no different. Over the years, we have seen many greats gracing this beautiful sport. From Sir Donald Bradman to Sir Vivian Richards, from Sir Richard Hadlee to Sunil Gavaskar, from Malcolm Marsh to Denis Lillee, and from Wasim Akram to Sachin Tendulkar, each era has witnessed a great.
Just when it seemed like Sachin Tendulkar was the last among the greatest to play this sport, in came Virat Kohli. In the pantheon of cricketing legends, few names shine as brightly as Virat Kohli. Known for his consistency, hunger for runs, and unmatched ability to chase down targets, Kohli has redefined batting in One-Day Internationals (ODIs). His dominance across conditions, formats, and oppositions makes him not just a modern great but arguably the greatest ODI batter of all time.
They say numbers speak louder than words, and Virat Kohli’s legacy in ODI cricket is a testament to sheer hard work, grit, determination, and the unmatched spirit to be the best. Since his debut in 2008, Kohli has shattered records at will and set new benchmarks every time he walks into the sun. Let’s take a close look at ‘King’ Kohli’s ODI numbers.
Take a look at Kohli’s unreal yet majestic numbers in ODIs.
Kohli’s brilliance isn’t limited to familiar conditions. He has scored heavily both at home and away, proving his adaptability and class.
Kohli’s ability to chase down targets is legendary. He averages over 65 in successful run chases, often anchoring innings with utmost precision. His temperament under pressure and ability to pace the innings make him the ultimate finisher.
From the Dhoni era to the current generation, Kohli has remained India’s batting stalwart. His average has never dipped below 50 in any calendar year since 2010, a testament to his consistency.
Kohli revolutionized fitness standards in Indian cricket. His agility between the wickets, sharp fielding, and endurance have allowed him to maintain peak performance even when he is approaching his late 30s.
Kohli’s conversion rate from fifties to hundreds is among the best in ODI history. He doesn’t just get starts, he finishes games.
Whether it’s swinging conditions in England, bouncy tracks in Australia, or slow turners in Asia, Kohli adjusts his technique and temperament to suit the situation.
Match situation: India needed 321 in 40 overs to stay alive in the tri-series.
Match situation: India chasing 330 against arch-rivals Pakistan.
Match situation: India chasing 360 in the 2nd ODI.
Match situation: India were reeling at 63/4 chasing 351.
Match situation: High-pressure World Cup opener against Pakistan.
Kohli often speaks about “playing the safest possible shot to score runs.” His game is built on timing, placement, and running between the wickets, unlike modern-day T20 batters who rely heavily on brute force to score runs at a brisk pace. This approach has made him a model of consistency and a nightmare for bowlers.
Virat Kohli isn’t just an ODI giant; he’s the blueprint for modern batting and has attained a legendary stature in world cricket. He has gained accolades from not only his fans but also from his critics as well. His records, temperament, and impact on Indian cricket speak volumes for his stature. Approaching the twilight end of his career, we all wish luck to Kohli to perform well and make merry of his last playing days as much as he can.