Virat Kohli, often hailed as one of the greatest cricketers of all time, has not only rewritten the record books but has set benchmarks that seem almost insurmountable. His career, filled with moments of brilliance, has left an indelible mark on the sport. Here, we explore five records of Virat Kohli that are likely to remain untouched, showcasing his dominance and consistency across formats.
1. First Asian Captain to Win Tests in Australia, England, and South Africa
In 2018, Kohli achieved what many thought was impossible for an Asian captain. Winning Test series in Australia, England, and South Africa is a testament to his leadership, tactical acumen, and the ability to inspire his team under the most challenging conditions. This record is not just about winning; it’s about leading from the front in cricket’s most unforgiving arenas.
2. Fastest to 15,000 Runs in International Cricket
Kohli reached this monumental milestone against Sri Lanka in 2017. Scoring 15,000 runs across formats in just 343 innings is a reflection of his relentless scoring ability and consistency. This record highlights his dominance over bowlers from all nations, in all conditions, making it one of the most daunting records to chase.
3. Fastest to 10,000 Runs in ODIs
Against the West Indies, Kohli not only scored 10,000 runs but did so in just 205 innings, with two consecutive centuries to boot. This record underscores his ability to score big runs consistently in the one-day format, where the pressure of limited overs cricket often tests a batsman’s mettle.
4. Most Runs in IPL History
With 8,004 runs in 252 matches, Kohli’s IPL record is a testament to his adaptability and success in the T20 format. His ability to perform under the pressure of franchise cricket, where every run counts towards a player’s market value and team’s success, sets him apart. This record might be the most challenging to break given the IPL’s competitive nature.
5. Averaging Nearly 50 Across All Formats
Although Kohli’s averages have dipped slightly in Tests and T20Is recently, his career averages across formats have been phenomenal. Averaging close to 50 in ODIs, Tests, and T20Is is a rare feat, showcasing his versatility and effectiveness regardless of the format. While his averages might fluctuate, the overall achievement of maintaining such high averages over a prolonged period is a record in itself.
Virat Kohli’s retirement from T20 cricket on June 29, 2024, during the T20 World Cup, where he scored a crucial 76 against South Africa, marked not just the end of an era but also highlighted his ability to deliver when it mattered most. His records, as discussed, are not just numbers; they are narratives of dedication, hard work, and unparalleled skill. These records are likely to stand as monuments to Kohli’s cricketing legacy, inspiring future generations while challenging them to reach heights that Kohli has so dominantly occupied. As Kohli moves away from T20 cricket, his legacy in the sport remains, encapsulated in records that might well be unbreakable.
