Virat Kohli’s remarkable consistency and ability to deliver in high-pressure situations have once again put him in the spotlight. With his latest milestone, he has surged to No.5 in the ICC ODI rankings, reaffirming his status as the best ODI player of the modern era. Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting has even suggested that he is on track to become the all-time leading run-scorer in ODI history, potentially surpassing legends like Kumar Sangakkara and Sachin Tendulkar.
As he continues to rewrite records, cricket fans worldwide are left wondering: Can he achieve the impossible and dethrone Tendulkar as the greatest ODI run-scorer of all time?
Record-Breaking Journey in ODI Cricket
Moves Up the ICC ODI Rankings
Kohli’s recent unbeaten century against Pakistan in Dubai not only secured an important win for India but also propelled him to No.5 in the ICC ODI rankings. This ranking reflects his recent form and incredible impact on the game. With over 14,000 ODI runs, he has already surpassed Ponting and now trails only Sangakkara and Tendulkar in the all-time list.
A Step Closer to History
- Current ODI Runs: 14,000+
- Second Place: Kumar Sangakkara (14,234 runs)
- All-Time Leader: Sachin Tendulkar (18,426 runs)
- Gap to Tendulkar’s Record: 4,341 runs
Ponting himself believes that he has the hunger and fitness required to continue playing at the highest level, giving him a realistic shot at surpassing these legendary numbers.
Why Kohli is the Best ODI Player of This Era
Unmatched Consistency in the 50-Over Format
Over the years, he ability to perform across all conditions and against all opponents has been unparalleled. He has consistently dominated bowling attacks with his technical mastery, mental resilience, and aggressive intent.
Key Stats That Define Greatness
- 50+ Average in ODIs (over 250 matches)
- Most Hundreds in Successful ODI Chases
- One of the Fastest Batsmen to 10,000 & 14,000 Runs
- More than 50 ODI Centuries (Second Only to Tendulkar)
In ability to thrive in run chases has particularly set him apart. Whether facing a daunting total or stabilizing an innings, he has been India’s go-to match-winner.
Ponting’s Praise: Kohli’s Hunger for Greatness
The Mindset of a Champion
Ponting, regarded as one of cricket’s greatest captains, sees Kohli as the ODI player he has ever witnessed. The Australian legend believes that he is drive to be remembered as the greatest run-scorer will push him to play for several more years.
“Now that he’s gone past me and only two ahead of him, I’m sure he wants to give himself the best chance to be remembered as the all-time leading run-scorer in the game.” – Ricky Ponting
Ponting’s admiration for Kohli’s ability to step up in pressure moments was also evident:
“Big games equal big names. No bigger game for India than a match against Pakistan. It needed someone to play a match-winning innings, and once again, it was Kohli who got the job done.”
He thrives under pressure, which is a hallmark of the ODI players in cricket history.
Can Break Tendulkar’s Record?
While 4,341 runs may seem like a massive gap, Kohli’s current form and fitness levels make it achievable. At 35, he still has a few prime years left, and with India’s packed ODI schedule, he will have plenty of opportunities to accumulate runs.
Challenges on the Road to History
- Longevity: Can maintain peak fitness for 3-4 more years?
- Competition & Workload: Will India’s packed schedule allow him enough ODIs?
- Motivation: Will he continue to push himself despite already being a legend?
If anyone has the mental strength and determination to surpass Tendulkar, it is Virat Kohli.
Final Thoughts: A Legacy Still Being Written
Kohli’s rise to No.5 in the ICC ODI rankings and his relentless pursuit of records prove that he is far from done. His passion for the game and desire to be the best ODI player in history continue to drive him forward.
With just a few more years of peak performance, he could achieve what once seemed impossible—becoming the highest run-scorer in ODI history.
The cricketing world watches in anticipation:
Can achieve the ultimate milestone and cement his place as the undisputed ODI king?
