Run Machine Rolls On: Virat Kohli Breaks Sachin Tendulkar’s Record, Surpasses Kumar Sangakkara

Virat Kohli once again proved why he is regarded as one of the greatest batters in the history of cricket. The former India captain etched his name deeper into the record books by becoming the fastest player to score 28,000 international runs, surpassing legends Sachin Tendulkar and Kumar Sangakkara during India’s first ODI against New Zealand in Vadodara.

The milestone came on a memorable evening at the Kotambi International Stadium (BCA), which hosted its first-ever men’s ODI. With a packed crowd of nearly 35,000 spectators, Kohli delivered yet another masterclass, reinforcing his status as the modern-day “Run Machine.”

Virat Kohli Reaches 28,000 International Runs – A Historic Feat

Virat Kohli reached the landmark of 28,000 international runs in just 624 innings, making him the fastest cricketer in history to achieve the milestone.

Previous Record Holders:

• Sachin Tendulkar – 28,000 runs in 644 innings

• Kumar Sangakkara – Slower than both Tendulkar and Kohli

Kohli entered the series opener needing just 25 runs to reach the landmark. He crossed the mark in style, hitting New Zealand bowler Adithya Ashok for a boundary off the fifth ball of the 13th over.

With that shot, Kohli:

• Became the second-highest run-scorer in international cricket

• Went past Kumar Sangakkara

• Continued his dominance across formats

Virat Kohli’s International Career at a Glance

Before the Vadodara ODI, Kohli’s numbers already spoke volumes:

• Matches: 556

• Innings: 623

• Runs: 27,975

• Average: 52.58

• Centuries: 84

• Half-centuries: 145

These statistics underline his unmatched consistency over more than a decade across Tests, ODIs, and T20Is.

Kohli Shines in His 309th ODI Appearance

Playing his 309th ODI for India, Kohli once again anchored a challenging chase. He top-scored with a brilliant 93 off 91 balls, showcasing composure, timing, and controlled aggression.

Although India faced a late collapse that made the chase tense, Kohli’s innings ensured the team stayed on course.

Key Batting Contributions:

• Virat Kohli: 93 (91 balls)

• Shubman Gill (Captain): 56

India eventually reached 306 for 6 in 49 overs, sealing a four-wicket victory and taking a 1–0 lead in the three-match ODI series.

Special Honour for Kohli and Rohit Sharma

During the mid-innings break, the Baroda Cricket Association (BCA) organised a unique tribute for Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma.

A cupboard-like structure placed near the boundary line, decorated with life-size images of the two stars, was unveiled. As their names were announced:

• The doors opened

• Kohli and Rohit stepped out to loud cheers

• The moment drew laughter, applause, and admiration

Both players smiled and acknowledged the gesture, making it a memorable moment for fans at the historic venue.

A Special Night for Vadodara Cricket

The match was especially significant as it marked the first men’s ODI at the Kotambi International Stadium. With international matches being rare in Vadodara, the organisers made sure the occasion was celebrated in style by honouring two stalwarts of Indian cricket.

The presence of nearly 35,000 fans highlighted the city’s passion for the game and added to the festive atmosphere.

New Zealand’s Innings: Daryl Mitchell Leads the Charge

Earlier in the match, New Zealand posted a competitive 300 for 8 in their 50 overs.

Key Performances for New Zealand:

• Daryl Mitchell: 84 off 71 balls (5 fours, 3 sixes)

• Devon Conway: 56 off 67 balls

• Henry Nicholls: 62 off 69 balls

Conway and Nicholls stitched together a strong 117-run opening partnership, giving the Black Caps an excellent start.

However, India clawed back into the game thanks to disciplined bowling.

Harshit Rana Turns the Match Around

Young pacer Harshit Rana played a crucial role in breaking New Zealand’s momentum.

Harshit Rana’s Spell:

• Overs: 2

• Runs: 13

• Wickets: 2

New Zealand slipped from 117 without loss in the 22nd over to 198 for 5 by the 38th, shifting the balance in India’s favour.

Despite late resistance from debutant Kristian Clarke, who scored 24 not out off 17 balls, India managed to restrict New Zealand to a chaseable total.

Why Virat Kohli’s Record Matters

Virat Kohli’s achievement is not just about numbers—it reflects:

• Longevity at the highest level

• Adaptability across formats

• Mental toughness under pressure

• Consistency unmatched in modern cricket

Breaking Sachin Tendulkar’s long-standing record further cements Kohli’s legacy as one of the all-time greats.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. How many innings did Virat Kohli take to reach 28,000 international runs?

A: Virat Kohli reached the milestone in 624 innings, the fastest ever.

Q2. Whose record did Kohli break?

A: He broke Sachin Tendulkar’s record of 644 innings.

Q3. Who is ahead of Kohli in international runs?

A: Only Sachin Tendulkar remains ahead of Kohli.

Q4. How many runs did Kohli score in the Vadodara ODI?

A: He scored 93 runs off 91 balls.

Final Thoughts

Virat Kohli continues to redefine greatness with every innings. Breaking Sachin Tendulkar’s record and surpassing Kumar Sangakkara is yet another reminder that the Run Machine is far from done. As India marches forward in the ODI series against New Zealand, all eyes will remain on Kohli—because history seems to follow him wherever he plays.