Virat Kohli is considered the best ODI batter of this decade because of his amazing numbers and match-winning performances. He has scored more than 14,000 runs in ODIs and reached 50 centuries faster than any other cricketer in history. He has been consistent for many years, playing brilliantly across the 2010s and 2020s, even while playing under different team captains, which shows how well he can adjust to change.
Kohli is especially famous for his batting while chasing targets. In matches where India had to chase more than 300 runs, he has an incredible average of over 121, proving that he stays calm and performs his best under pressure. Because of his outstanding and long-lasting performances, the ICC named him Player of the Decade and Cricketer of the Year. His high level of performance even today makes him truly unmatched in One Day International cricket.
Virat Kohli: First International Match
Virat Kohli began his international cricket journey with his ODI debut on August 18, 2008, against Sri Lanka in Dambulla, where India secured a six-wicket victory. He impressed with his composure and batting skill right from the start. Two years later, on June 12, 2010, Kohli made his T20I debut against Zimbabwe in Harare, contributing to another six-wicket win for India.
He continued his rise in cricket by making his Test debut on June 20, 2011, against the West Indies in Kingston, a match that ended in a draw. These first matches marked his entry into all three formats, showcasing his potential and laying the foundation for a stellar international career.
Virat Kohli: Over 28,000 Runs Legacy
Virat Kohli has played 123 Test matches, scoring 9,230 runs at an average of around 46.85. He has recorded 30 centuries and 31 half-centuries, with a highest score of 254 not out, showcasing his ability to play long, match-defining innings in the longest format.
In One Day Internationals, Kohli has amassed approximately 14,797 runs at an average of 58.7, including 54 centuries. He is widely regarded as one of the best ODI batsmen, known for his remarkable consistency, adaptability, and record-breaking performances throughout his career.
In T20 Internationals, Kohli has scored 4,188 runs at an average close to 48.7, including one century. His performances in the shortest format highlight his aggressive batting style, excellent strike rate, and ability to perform under pressure in high-stakes matches.
Virat Kohli: Chase Master
Virat Kohli has been a major reason behind India’s success while chasing targets in One Day Internationals. India has won a very large number of ODI matches when Kohli has batted in run chases. He has scored 24 centuries in successful run chases, which is the highest by any player, clearly showing how often his hundreds have ended in Indian victories.
Overall, he has 44 ODI centuries in matches India won, while only 5 centuries came in losses, proving his impact on winning games. In big chases of 300+ runs, Kohli has scored over 1,000 runs at an incredible average of more than 122, helping India win many high-pressure matches. These numbers explain why India has trusted him again and again during run chases and why he is known as the greatest chase batter in ODI cricket.
Virat Kohli: Best ODI Batter Of This Decade
Virat Kohli stands out as the best ODI batter of this decade because of his outstanding consistency, massive run-scoring records, and match-winning performances for India. His dominance in run chases and ability to perform under pressure set him apart from others.
Kohli’s greatness is also recognized through major awards, including being named ICC Player of the Decade (2011–2020), ICC ODI Cricketer of the Year multiple times, and Wisden’s ODI Player of the Decade for the 2010s. Even when other players briefly top the rankings, Kohli’s long-term impact, achievements, and sustained excellence confirm his status as the greatest ODI batter of this decade.
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