Virat Kohli ODI Batting Records Explained
Virat Kohli is the leading run-scorer in ODI cricket history with over 13,000 runs and holds numerous records including the most ODI centuries, making him the benchmark for modern ODI batting.
Kohli's ODI Run Record
Virat Kohli is the highest run-scorer in ODI cricket history. He surpassed Sachin Tendulkar's ODI run record of 18,426 runs in 2023 and continues to accumulate. Kohli's average of approximately 58 in ODIs over his career — across formats and conditions, against all major nations — places him among the most prolific run-scorers the 50-over format has ever seen. He has scored more ODI centuries than any batter in history.
Most ODI Centuries
Kohli reached 50 ODI centuries in 2023, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar's record of 49 ODI hundreds. The milestones underline not just volume of runs but the frequency of major match-winning innings. His century count is particularly remarkable given that ODI cricket is a format where top-order batters face a constant tension between scoring rate and big innings — Kohli has consistently converted starts into hundreds more often than almost any batter in history.
Kohli as a Run-Chaser
One of the most notable aspects of Kohli's ODI record is his ability in run-chases. His average when chasing is significantly higher than his average when setting targets, making him statistically the most effective run-chaser in ODI history by average. His 183 against Pakistan in the 2012 Asia Cup, his 107 against Australia in the 2011 CB Series, and his role in India's 2011 World Cup final victory are among the most iconic ODI chasing performances. He brings a calculated aggression to chases — watching the run rate, rotating strike, and accelerating at the optimal moment rather than simply hitting boundaries.
Frequently asked questions
How many ODI centuries has Virat Kohli scored?
Kohli has scored more than 50 ODI centuries — the most in ODI cricket history, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar's record of 49.
What is Virat Kohli's ODI batting average?
Kohli's ODI batting average is approximately 58, one of the highest career averages in ODI cricket history for a batter who has played over 250 innings.
Why is Kohli considered the best ODI run-chaser?
Kohli's average when chasing a target is significantly higher than his average when setting one, making him statistically the most effective run-chaser in ODI history by average.