India’s Cricket Maestro Shatters Records in Style
In the high-octane clash between arch-rivals India and Pakistan at the Asia Cup 2023, Virat Kohli, the relentless run-machine, etched his name in the annals of cricket history once again. With a breathtaking performance, Kohli became the fastest cricketer to reach the remarkable milestone of 13,000 runs in One Day Internationals (ODIs). Let’s dive into this historic feat, where Kohli accelerated his innings after a slow start to race past the 13,000-run mark and score his 47th ODI century.
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Setting the Stage in Colombo
As the cricketing battle resumed in Colombo on the reserve day, it was KL Rahul and Virat Kohli who set the stage on fire for India. Kohli, known for his impeccable consistency, had a slower start to his innings, notching up his 66th half-century in a calm and composed manner. However, what followed was a spectacular display of skill and determination.
Virat Kohli’s Masterclass
Virat Kohli, often referred to as the King of Chases, reached the historic 13,000-run milestone just a few runs short of his 47th international century. His innings was nothing short of a masterclass in modern-day cricket. With a blend of exquisite timing, power, and precision, Kohli carved his way to greatness. His final innings tally read an unbeaten 122 runs, embellished with nine crisp boundaries and three towering sixes.
Records Tumble as Kohli Continues His Onslaught
With this remarkable achievement, Virat Kohli cemented his position as the fastest batter in the history of the game to reach 8,000, 9,000, 10,000, 11,000, 12,000, and now 13,000 ODI runs. Such consistent excellence is the hallmark of his career.
Notable Statistics:
- Most 50+ Scores in ODIs:
- Sachin Tendulkar – 145
- Kumar Sangakkara – 118
- Virat Kohli* – 112
- Ricky Ponting – 112
- Jacques Kallis – 103
Virat Kohli’s name now stands alongside cricketing legends like Tendulkar and Ponting in this elite list. His ability to convert starts into substantial scores is a testament to his batting prowess.
A True Colombo Conqueror
Colombo has been a happy hunting ground for Virat Kohli, and this game was no different. He notched up his fourth consecutive century in Colombo, a feat that reflects his unparalleled consistency and love for the venue.
Milestone Mania
In addition to his personal achievements, Kohli’s record-breaking spree continued as he surged past the 13,000-run mark in ODIs. He now stands just a few runs behind the legendary Sanath Jayasuriya to become the fourth-highest run-scorer in ODI history.
Kohli and KL Rahul’s Spectacular Partnership
Virat Kohli’s heroics were complemented by KL Rahul, who marked his return with a brilliant century of his own. Together, they formed a formidable partnership that tormented the Pakistani bowlers. Their partnership of 233 runs is the highest ever for India against Pakistan in ODIs, a testament to their dominance.
Flourishing Batting Display
The Indian top order flexed their muscles in this crucial encounter. Shubman Gill and Rohit Sharma laid the foundation with confident fifties, setting the stage for Rahul and Kohli to take over. Despite some exceptional bowling from the Pakistani side, the Indian top order showcased their class.
Kohli’s Brilliance Beyond Boundaries
Kohli’s journey to his 47th ODI century was marked by exquisite boundaries. He took just 84 balls, including six fours and two towering sixes, to reach this monumental milestone. After a somewhat shaky start in the previous game against Pakistan, Kohli saved his best for this encounter, leaving fans and cricket enthusiasts in awe.
Records and Rankings
Here’s a glimpse of Kohli’s rapid climb up the charts:
- Fewest Innings to 13,000 ODI Runs:
- Virat Kohli* – 267
- Sachin Tendulkar – 321
- Ricky Ponting – 341
- Kumar Sangakkara – 363
- Sanath Jayasuriya – 416
- Most 100s in ODI Asia Cup:
- Sanath Jayasuriya – 6
- Virat Kohli* – 4
- Kumar Sangakkara – 4
- Shoaib Malik – 3
A Spectacle in Colombo
Virat Kohli’s last four scores at Colombo’s RPS (R Premadasa Stadium) paint a picture of dominance and consistency: 128(119), 131(96), 110(116), and now, 122*(94). This string of exceptional performances in the same venue highlights his special connection with Colombo.
A Grand Finale
As Kohli finished his innings unbeaten on 122 from just 94 balls, he showcased his ability to accelerate when needed, hammering nine boundaries and two massive sixes. His innings concluded with a resounding six, leaving fans on the edge of their seats.
Virat Kohli’s journey to 13,000 ODI runs in the IND vs. PAK clash was nothing short of a cricketing spectacle. His ability to consistently perform at the highest level and break records with ease has solidified his status as one of the greatest cricketers of all time. This historic milestone adds another glittering gem to his illustrious career, and cricket enthusiasts around the world eagerly await his next feat on the field. As the cricketing world celebrates this remarkable achievement, Virat Kohli continues to be an inspiration for budding cricketers and a source of pride for Indian cricket.
