Virat Kohli Goes on a Record-Breaking Spree Against Pakistan in Asia Cup Super 4 Stage 

In the annals of One Day International (ODI) cricket, one name that stands tall, revered, and etched in history is none other than Virat Kohli. The man often hailed as the “King Kohli” and the “GOAT” (Greatest of All Time) has etched an extraordinary journey in the 50-over format. Let’s delve into the awe-inspiring achievements that define Virat Kohli’s illustrious career in ODIs.

Kohli’s Colombo Love Affair

Virat Kohli’s love affair with Colombo’s R Premadasa Stadium is nothing short of remarkable. With an astonishing average of 128.20 at this venue in ODIs, Kohli boasts four successive centuries, having also accomplished this feat in 2012 and twice in 2017 against Sri Lanka. Notably, this 128.20 average stands as the highest for any batter after nine or more innings at a single venue in ODI history. 

Kohli’s affection for this venue extends across formats, with a healthy T20I average of 53.4 in six matches. Interestingly, he has yet to play a Test match here, leaving fans wondering what more he can achieve on this hallowed ground. 

Fastest to 13,000 ODI Runs

Scoring 13,000 ODI runs is a monumental feat in itself, but doing it more than fifty innings quicker than one of cricket’s greatest legends is simply astonishing. Kohli’s status among ODI legends is unquestionable, and this remarkable feat reaffirms the exceptional nature of his career.  

Virat Kohli’s 47th ODI century came after a mere 267 innings, underscoring his unparalleled consistency and run-scoring prowess. This achievement places him third on the list of players with the most 50+ scores in ODIs, cementing his legacy among cricket’s elite. Furthermore, Kohli is only behind the legendary Sachin Tendulkar in terms of ‘Most ODI Centuries’. Sachin Tendulkar, who retired from ODI Cricket in 2012, has 49 ODI Centuries to his name. 

Highest Partnership for India vs. Pakistan in ODIs

Kohli played a pivotal role in a record-breaking partnership of 233 runs (unbeaten) alongside KL Rahul, marking the highest partnership for India against Pakistan in ODIs. This stellar performance surpassed the previous record of 231 runs set by Navjot Singh Sidhu and Sachin Tendulkar in Sharjah in 1996.

Notably, this unbeaten partnership ranks as India’s second-highest for the third wicket in ODIs, following the iconic Rahul Dravid-Sachin Tendulkar stand of 237* against Kenya in the 1999 Cricket World Cup. Achieved at a breathtaking run rate of 7.24 runs per over, it stands as the third-quickest double-century partnership against Pakistan in ODIs. 

Fueled by centuries from Kohli and Rahul, India posted a formidable total of 356, equalling their joint-highest total against Pakistan in ODIs, matching their score from Vizag in 2005. This total also ranks as the ninth-highest ever against Pakistan in men’s ODIs and is the highest at a neutral venue in ODIs against Pakistan. 

Kohli’s Asia Cup Brilliance 

In the prestigious Asia Cup, Kohli’s batting prowess is nothing short of spectacular. In 14 Asia Cup ODI matches, he boasts a stunning average of 67.18, featuring four centuries, all while maintaining a strike rate of over 100. Kohli’s tally of hundreds is the joint second-best, sharing this honour with Kumar Sangakkara, trailing only Kumar Jayasuriya, who has six hundreds. Kohli also holds the record for the highest individual score in the Asia Cup, an incredible 183 against Pakistan in the 2012 edition. 

Virat Kohli’s journey in ODI cricket continues to dazzle and inspire, leaving an indelible mark on the sport’s history. As the “King Kohli” marches forward, cricket enthusiasts worldwide eagerly await each inning, each milestone, and each chapter of his storied career.

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