Virat Kohli created history in the first ODI against New Zealand by becoming the first batter to score 13,000 runs while batting at number three in ODI cricket.
The former India captain reached the milestone during India’s chase of 186 runs. Kohli has been one of India’s most important batters for many years, and his latest record adds another major achievement to his career.
1. How Did Virat Kohli Become India’s Number Three Batter?
Kohli became a regular number three batter for India during the 2011 ODI World Cup. Before that, he had already become an important member of the team and was known for his ability to score runs under pressure.
He also took on the role of a finisher, helping India win matches with his batting. His strong performances led to his appointment as India’s vice-captain in 2012. In January 2017, Kohli became the captain of India’s ODI team.
2. Who Are the Top Five Run Scorers at Number Three in ODIs?
Kohli now leads the list of batters with the most ODI runs at number three. Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting is second with 12,662 runs. Sri Lankan legend Kumar Sangakkara is third with 9,747 runs.
Jacques Kallis of South Africa is fourth with 7,774 runs, while New Zealand captain Kane Williamson is fifth with 6,504 runs. Kohli has moved ahead of some of the biggest names in cricket with his latest record.
3. Can Virat Kohli Reach 14,000 ODI Runs?
Kohli is expected to continue playing ODI cricket until the 2027 ODI World Cup. He has the chance to add more runs to his record before the tournament.
He is also moving closer to another major milestone, having already crossed 14,000 runs in ODI cricket. Kohli was nearing a half-century during India’s chase against New Zealand in the first ODI.
4. How Did India’s Fast Bowlers Dominate New Zealand?
India’s fast bowlers played a major role in restricting New Zealand to just 185 runs. Arshdeep Singh led the attack with four wickets for 70 runs in his 10 overs.
Gurnoor Brar also impressed with three wickets, while Anshul Kamboj picked up two. Their efforts helped India bowl out New Zealand and set up a target of 186 runs.
Auqib Nabi and Axar Patel were unable to take a wicket in the innings. However, India’s overall bowling performance put the team in a strong position in the first ODI.
5. Will Mohammed Siraj Play in the Second ODI?
Mohammed Siraj is expected to return to India’s playing XI for the second ODI against New Zealand. He could replace Auqib Nabi in the team.
Siraj was part of the India A squad for the second unofficial Test against New Zealand A and was unavailable for the opening ODI. His return would give India another experienced fast bowler for the next match.
6. When Will the Second ODI Between India and New Zealand Be Played?
The second ODI between India and New Zealand is scheduled to be played on Saturday, November 7. India will look to continue their strong performance after bowling out New Zealand for 185 runs in the opening match.
Kohli’s record-breaking achievement will also be one of the major talking points as the series continues.