Indian cricket icon Virat Kohli has etched his name in the record books once again, becoming the first batter in the history of One Day International (ODI) cricket to maintain an average of 50 or more across all four SENA nations—South Africa, England, New Zealand, and Australia. This unprecedented statistical achievement was confirmed during India’s recent five-wicket victory in the first ODI against New Zealand, held in Auckland.
Entering the match in Auckland, Kohli’s average in New Zealand was 49.66. His aggressive, match-defining knock of 74 runs off just 51 deliveries, which included 13 fours and a single six at a strike rate exceeding 145, pushed his average in the country to 51.53. This performance officially completed his set of 50-plus averages in the challenging overseas territories. His career records in these regions stand at 76.38 in South Africa, 51.48 in England, 51.53 in New Zealand, and 50.03 in Australia.
Beyond this unique milestone, the innings in Auckland served as a platform for Kohli to eclipse another significant record previously held by the legendary Sachin Tendulkar. With his latest knock, Kohli surpassed Tendulkar to become the highest run-scorer in ODI run-chases. He has now accumulated 8,741 runs in this format while batting second, eclipsing the 8,720 runs amassed by Tendulkar. Kohli reached this tally across 180 matches and 169 innings, maintaining an impressive career average of 66.21 and a strike rate of 95.03.
Kohli’s dominance in successful run-chases is particularly noteworthy. In matches where India has successfully chased down a target, the former captain has scored 6,477 runs across 114 appearances, averaging a remarkable 89.95. This record includes 25 centuries and 30 half-centuries, cementing his reputation as one of the game's most reliable finishers under pressure.
The match also saw Kohli level the long-standing record held by Australian great Ricky Ponting for the most ODI runs scored against New Zealand. Both players currently hold 1,971 runs against the Black Caps, though Kohli reached the milestone in 37 innings compared to Ponting’s 50. Furthermore, Kohli became the first player in history to reach 13,000 ODI runs while batting at the No. 3 position, a testament to his longevity and consistency in the format.
These accomplishments follow a strong period for Kohli since his retirement from Test cricket. In that time, he has accumulated 1,002 runs in 16 ODIs at an average of 77.07, featuring four centuries. During the current calendar year, he has maintained his form with 626 runs in 10 matches at an average of 69.55 and a strike rate of 120.61.
In the Auckland series opener, India’s bowlers set the stage for the win by restricting New Zealand to 185 runs. Arshdeep Singh led the charge with four wickets, supported by Gurnoor Brar and Anshul Kamboj. Following rain interruptions, the target was revised to 143 via the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method. Kohli’s brisk 74 ensured India crossed the finish line comfortably, securing an early lead in the series.
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