Virat Kohli continues to etch his name in the annals of cricket history, achieving another monumental milestone. During Day 4 of the second Test against Bangladesh in Kanpur, Kohli became the fastest cricketer to reach 27,000 international runs, doing so in just 594 innings. This remarkable achievement allows him to surpass the previous record held by cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar, who accomplished the feat in 623 innings.
Kohli’s Record-Breaking Feat
Virat Kohli’s journey to 27,000 runs is not only a testament to his skill and dedication but also a reflection of his consistency across all formats of the game. With this milestone, Kohli becomes the only player in cricket history to reach this landmark in under 600 innings. Following him on this prestigious list are former Australian captain Ricky Ponting and Sri Lankan icon Kumar Sangakkara, who reached the milestone in 650 and 648 innings, respectively.
Another day at office, another milestone breached!@imVkohli now has 27000 runs in international cricket 👏👏
He is the fourth player and second Indian to achieve this feat!#INDvBAN @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/ijXWfi5v7O
— BCCI (@BCCI) September 30, 2024
Fastest to 27,000 International Runs
The statistics are telling:
- 594 innings – Virat Kohli
- 623 innings – Sachin Tendulkar
- 648 innings – Kumar Sangakkara
- 650 innings – Ricky Ponting
Virat Kohli now boasts a staggering total of 27,012 international runs, with a breakdown of approximately 8,918 runs in Test matches, 13,906 runs in One Day Internationals (ODIs), and 4,188 runs in T20 Internationals.
A Glimpse into the Match
On the fourth day of the Test match, Virat Kohli contributed a quick 47 runs off just 35 balls, displaying his trademark aggressive batting style. His innings included four boundaries and a six, demonstrating his positive intent from the outset. Although he fell short of his half-century by three runs, his performance was crucial in putting India in a commanding position.
Earlier in the match, India declared their first innings at 285 for nine, taking a 52-run lead over Bangladesh. The innings was bolstered by fifties from Yashasvi Jaiswal (71 runs) and KL Rahul (68 runs), both of whom played aggressive cricket to keep the scoreboard ticking at an impressive rate.
Virat Kohli’s Legacy and Comparison with Tendulkar
Kohli’s achievement is particularly significant when compared to the legendary Sachin Tendulkar, who is often hailed as one of the greatest batsmen of all time. Tendulkar’s record for 27,000 runs stood for years, and the manner in which Kohli has eclipsed it is a testament to the evolution of modern cricket.
While Tendulkar’s career spanned an illustrious 24 years, culminating in 100 international centuries, Kohli’s rise has been marked by fierce determination and an insatiable appetite for runs. Kohli’s consistency and ability to perform under pressure have made him a formidable presence in international cricket, and this milestone only cements his place among the sport’s elite.
The Next Generation of Cricketing Greats
Beyond Tendulkar and Virat Kohli, other legends like Ricky Ponting and Kumar Sangakkara have also made their mark in this exclusive club. Ponting’s aggressive batting style and competitive spirit propelled Australia to numerous victories, while Sangakkara’s elegance and precision have left an indelible mark on the game. Kohli’s ability to surpass these giants not only underscores his talent but also highlights the evolution of batting in modern cricket.
The Road Ahead for Kohli
Despite being in the latter stages of his career, Kohli shows no signs of slowing down. His relentless pursuit of excellence, combined with his fitness and mental strength, indicates that he has plenty of cricket left in him. Fans and analysts alike speculate that Kohli may soon break even more records, as he continues to be a linchpin for the Indian cricket team.
A New Chapter in Cricket History
Virat Kohli’s achievement of becoming the fastest player to score 27,000 international runs is a landmark moment in cricket. It serves as a reminder of his unparalleled talent, dedication, and the legacy he is building for future generations. As he continues to play, the cricketing world eagerly watches to see what new heights Kohli will reach next.
In a sport filled with records, milestones, and legends, Kohli stands out not just for his numbers but also for the passion and intensity he brings to the game. His journey from a young prodigy to one of the greatest cricketers of all time is inspiring for fans and aspiring cricketers alike. As Kohli writes new chapters in his career, one thing is certain: the cricketing world will be watching closely.
Read More: Musheer Khan Out of Action for Three Months After Serious Road Accident