Virat Kohli makes ODI history! In all SENA countries, he becomes the first batsman to average 50 or more

Virat Kohli (Image credit: BCCI) NEW DELHI: Virat Kohli on Wednesday added another milestone to his extraordinary ODI career, becoming the first batsman in the format’s history to maintain an average of 50 or more in all four SENA countries — South Africa, England, New Zealand and Australia.The India batsman achieved this during the first ODI against New Zealand in Auckland where he produced a commanding 74 off just 51 balls. His innings, studded with 13 fours and a six, came with a success rate of over 145 and helped India negotiate the chase with ease without rain.Kohli’s average in New Zealand was 49.66 before the match. His last knock took it to 51.53, completing a unique set of 50-plus averages in all four countries. He now averages 76.38 in South Africa, 51.48 in England, 51.53 in New Zealand and 50.03 in Australia.The milestone underscores Kohli’s remarkable consistency in conditions traditionally considered tough for visiting batsmen. He scored 993 runs in South Africa, 1,493 in England, 670 in New Zealand and 1,401 in Australia.

Kohli surpasses Tendulkar as the leading run-scorer in ODIs

The Auckland innings also saw Kohli move past another iconic record held by Sachin Tendulkar. He became the highest scorer in ODI run-chases by scoring 8,741 runs, surpassing Tendulkar’s 8,720.Kohli amassed these runs in 180 matches and 169 innings at an average of 66.21 and a strike rate of 95.03, with 30 centuries and 46 half-centuries.His numbers in successful chases are even more striking. The former Indian captain has scored 6,477 runs in 114 matches and 108 innings at an average of 89.95 and a strike rate above 98. This tally includes 25 centuries and 30 fifties, with a highest score of 183.The record further cements Kohli’s reputation as one of the most prolific batsmen in chases in ODIs, especially when India are chasing the target.

He equaled Ricky Ponting’s record against New Zealand

Kohli also equaled Australian great Ricky Ponting for the most ODI runs against New Zealand. Both batsmen now have 1,971 runs against the Black Caps.Kohli reached the mark in 37 innings at an average of 57.97 and a strike rate of 97.86, with seven centuries and 11 half-centuries. Ponting needed 50 innings in 51 matches to reach the same number of runs, at an average of 45.83, with six centuries and 12 fifties.The India batsman also became the first player to reach 13,000 ODI runs while batting at No. 3. In 254 matches and 251 innings at the position, he scored 13,062 innings at an average of 61.61. His record includes 48 centuries and 70 half-centuries with a best score of 183.

Kohli’s rich run continues even after the end of the Test

Kohli’s latest milestone comes amid an impressive run in the 50-over format. Since retiring from Test cricket, he has scored 1,002 runs in 16 ODIs at an average of 77.07, including four centuries and six half-centuries.He has been among the leading performers in ODIs this year as well. In 10 matches, Kohli has amassed 626 runs at an average of 69.55 and a strike rate of 120.61. The record includes two centuries and four fifties, with the highest score of 139 not out.

Arshdeep, Kamboj lead India’s bowling effort in Auckland

Kohli’s innings was among the highlights of India’s five-wicket win in the rain-affected series opener in Auckland.After being put under pressure by the Indian bowlers, New Zealand were bowled out for 185. Arshdeep Singh led the charge with an impressive four-wicket haul while Gurnoor Brar took three wickets for 44 runs in 9.2 overs. Anshul Kamboj chipped in with two wickets and conceded just 22 runs in his 10 overs.India were set a revised target of 143 in 32 overs by the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method after the rain interruption. Kohli’s blistering 74 ensured the chase stayed on course as India comfortably reached the target and took an early lead in the series.