Virat Kohli – The Run Machine of Asia

Introduction

Virat Kohli, often hailed as one of the modern greats of cricket, has once again etched his name in the history books by becoming the fastest player to score 16,000 international runs in Asia. His journey from a young and aggressive Delhi cricketer to one of the finest batsmen in the world is nothing short of inspirational.

The Historic Achievement

On February 12, 2025, during the third ODI against England at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, Kohli achieved this remarkable milestone. He surpassed the legendary Sachin Tendulkar’s record, reaching 16,000 runs in just 340 innings compared to Tendulkar’s 353 innings. This feat not only underscores Kohli’s consistency but also his ability to perform under pressure, particularly on Asian pitches.

Key Stats

• Matches Played in Asia: 312
• Total Runs: 16,025
• Average: 56.82
• Centuries: 52
• Fifties: 79

A Master of All Formats

Kohli’s ability to adapt across all formats of the game sets him apart. Whether it’s the red ball or white ball, Kohli has showcased exceptional skill and temperament. His knock of 52 runs off 55 balls against England, including seven boundaries and a six, highlighted his return to form and mastery over spin.

Climbing the Ladder of Legends

With this achievement, Kohli became the fourth-highest run-scorer in Asia, trailing only behind cricketing giants like:

• Sachin Tendulkar: 21,266 runs
• Kumar Sangakkara: 18,423 runs
• Mahela Jayawardene: 17,386 runs

Moreover, he also became the first Indian and sixth overall to surpass 4,000 international runs against England, cementing his legacy as a player who thrives against top-tier opposition.

The Road Ahead

Virat Kohli continues to be a cornerstone of Indian cricket. With his fitness, hunger for runs, and unparalleled work ethic, there is no doubt that he will keep adding to his records. As fans, we can only watch and admire the legend in action, knowing we are witnessing history unfold with every innings he plays.