Kohli closes gap with Tendulkar in India’s win

By Admin

12 Jan, 2026

A historic knock in Vadodara
India’s seasoned campaigner Virat Kohli once again proved why he is regarded as one of the modern greats, delivering a match-winning performance in a thrilling ODI at Vadodara. In a high-pressure chase, Kohli’s composed and fluent batting guided India to a memorable victory and further etched his name into cricket’s record books.

Second on the all-time run-scoring list
During his superb knock of 93, Kohli surpassed Kumar Sangakkara to move into second place on the all-time men’s international run-scoring charts. With this milestone, the former India skipper now sits just behind the legendary Sachin Tendulkar, closing the gap to one of the most iconic records in world cricket.

Most runs in men’s international cricket
Sachin Tendulkar (India) – 34,357
Virat Kohli (India) – 28,068
Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka) – 28,016
Ricky Ponting (Australia) – 27,483
Mahela Jayawardena (Sri Lanka) – 25,957

A knock built on form and confidence
Kohli’s innings was a masterclass in controlled aggression. Laced with eight boundaries and a towering six, the 93 marked his fifth fifty-plus score in as many ODI innings, underlining his red-hot form. Despite nearing another landmark, Kohli remained focused on the team’s cause rather than personal achievements.

Reflecting on his journey, Kohli said the milestone felt like a dream come true, adding that he has always believed in his abilities and worked relentlessly to reach this level. He also revealed that milestones were not on his mind during the chase, as his sole focus was finishing the game for India.

Partnership that set the tone
Chasing a challenging target of 301, India suffered an early setback with the loss of Rohit Sharma. Kohli then took charge, forging a crucial 118-run partnership for the second wicket with captain Shubman Gill. The stand steadied the innings and laid the foundation for the chase.

Even after Gill’s dismissal, Kohli continued to anchor the innings, ensuring India stayed on course. Gill later praised Kohli’s effortless stroke play, highlighting how he made batting look easy on a surface that was challenging at the start.

Series advantage for India
India eventually clinched a four-wicket win, taking a 1–0 lead in the three-match ODI series. With momentum firmly on their side, the two teams are set to face off again on January 14 in Rajkot, where all eyes will once more be on Kohli as he continues his remarkable pursuit of history.