Virat Kohli Eyes Historic ODI Milestone in Champions Trophy Final
Indian batting maestro Virat Kohli is on the verge of achieving yet another monumental feat in One Day Internationals (ODIs). As India gears up to face New Zealand in the much-anticipated 2025 ICC Champions Trophy final, all eyes will be on Kohli, who is just 55 runs away from surpassing Sri Lankan legend Kumar Sangakkara to become the second-highest run-scorer in ODI history.
Let’s dive into the details of this incredible milestone, Kohli’s journey in ODIs, and what this means for Indian cricket.
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Kohli’s Remarkable ODI Journey
Accumulating Runs with Consistency
Virat Kohli has been a pillar of consistency in the ODI format for over a decade. The right-handed stalwart has amassed a staggering 14,180 runs in ODIs at an astonishing average of 58.11. His ability to adapt to different conditions and dominate bowlers across the globe has set him apart as one of the greatest ODI players of all time.
A Master of Big Scores
Kohli’s ODI career has been marked by his relentless hunger for big scores. He has notched up 51 centuries and 74 half-centuries, proving his ability to convert starts into match-winning knocks. His aggressive yet composed approach has made him a nightmare for bowlers worldwide.
Chasing the Legends
In the race for most ODI runs, Kohli is on the brink of overtaking Kumar Sangakkara, who sits second on the list with 14,234 runs from 404 ODIs at an average of 41.98. With just 55 more runs needed, Kohli could surpass the Sri Lankan great in the upcoming Champions Trophy final.
However, the top spot remains firmly in the hands of Indian cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar, who leads the chart with an unmatchable 18,426 runs at an average of 44.83. While Kohli may not reach Tendulkar’s numbers in the near future, overtaking Sangakkara would solidify his status as one of ODI cricket’s finest batters.
The 2025 Champions Trophy Final: A Stage for Glory
India vs. New Zealand – A Rivalry Renewed
India and New Zealand are set to lock horns in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy final on March 9 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. This marks India’s third successive Champions Trophy final appearance after winning in 2013 and finishing as runners-up in 2017.
India has already defeated New Zealand once in this tournament, securing a 44-run victory in the group stage. However, the Kiwis are known for their ability to perform under pressure, making this final an exciting contest.
Kohli’s Role in India’s Batting Line-up
As India prepares for the final, Virat Kohli’s performance will be crucial. With his experience in pressure situations, Kohli will be expected to anchor India’s innings and guide them towards a strong total. Given his recent form, scoring the 55 runs needed to surpass Sangakkara seems well within reach.
Conditions in Dubai: A Balanced Battle
The Dubai International Cricket Stadium pitch is expected to offer a balanced contest between bat and ball, as per reports from The Times of India. The semi-fresh surface is likely to assist both pace and spin bowlers, making shot selection crucial for batters.
With both teams boasting well-rounded squads, the match could hinge on individual brilliance, making Kohli’s innings even more significant.
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India vs. New Zealand: ODI Head-to-Head
Overall ODI Record
India and New Zealand have clashed in ODIs on 119 occasions. The statistics lean slightly in India’s favor:
• India Wins: 61
• New Zealand Wins: 50
• Tied Matches: 1
• No Result Matches: 7
Champions Trophy Head-to-Head
In the Champions Trophy history, India and New Zealand have played twice, with both teams winning one match each. This makes the upcoming final a decider in their tournament history.
India’s Dominance in Asia
India has historically dominated New Zealand in Asian conditions, winning 39 out of 54 ODIs played on the continent. Meanwhile, the Kiwis have managed just 12 victories, with three matches ending with no result.
Given these numbers, India enters the final with a psychological advantage, but New Zealand’s ability to rise to big occasions makes them a dangerous opponent.
India vs New Zealand Champions Trophy 2025 Final: What If the Match Ends in a Tie?
Kohli vs. New Zealand: A Special Rivalry
Kohli’s ODI Record vs. New Zealand
Virat Kohli has consistently performed well against the Black Caps in ODIs. His ability to handle New Zealand’s disciplined bowling attack has made him one of their biggest threats.
Against New Zealand, Kohli has:
• Scored over 1,500 ODI runs
• Maintained an average above 50
• Registered multiple centuries and half-centuries
With his proven track record against the Kiwis, the upcoming final presents a perfect opportunity for Kohli to break records and steer India to another ICC title.
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The Bigger Picture: Kohli’s ODI Legacy
A Modern-Day Legend
Virat Kohli’s journey in ODIs has been nothing short of legendary. His ability to chase down totals, dominate world-class bowlers, and perform under pressure has earned him comparisons with the greatest batters in cricket history.
By overtaking Kumar Sangakkara, Kohli would:
• Become the second-highest run-scorer in ODI history
• Further cement his status as India’s greatest ODI batter after Sachin Tendulkar
• Continue his march towards even bigger records in international cricket
What’s Next for Kohli?
Even if Kohli surpasses Sangakkara, his hunger for runs is unlikely to stop. At 35 years old, he still has a few years left at the top, and with the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup on the horizon, Kohli could set his sights on closing the gap with Tendulkar in the all-time ODI runs chart.
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Conclusion: A Final to Watch Out For
The 2025 ICC Champions Trophy final is not just about India vs. New Zealand—it is also about individual brilliance, milestones, and legacies. Virat Kohli has a golden opportunity to etch his name even deeper into ODI history by surpassing Kumar Sangakkara.
As fans eagerly await the high-voltage clash, one question remains—can Kohli rise to the occasion and script another unforgettable chapter in his career? The answer will unfold in Dubai on March 9.
