Virat Kohli becomes the fastest Batter to score 27,000 International Runs

Virat Kohli, the Indian cricket maestro, has once again etched his name in the annals of cricket history by becoming the fastest batter to reach 27,000 international runs. This remarkable achievement came during the second Test against Bangladesh in Kanpur on September 30, 2024. Kohli surpassed the legendary Sachin Tendulkar’s record, achieving this milestone in just 594 innings, compared to Tendulkar’s 623 innings.

Virat Kohli’s Consistency and Excellence

Kohli’s journey to this milestone has been marked by unparalleled consistency and excellence across all formats of the game. Since his international debut in 2008, Kohli has been a cornerstone of the Indian batting lineup. His ability to adapt to different formats—Tests, One-Day Internationals (ODIs), and Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is)—has set him apart from his contemporaries.

In Tests, Kohli’s aggressive yet technically sound batting has earned him numerous accolades. His ability to play long innings and anchor the team’s performance has been crucial in many of India’s Test victories. In ODIs, his knack for chasing down targets and his ability to score runs under pressure have made him one of the most reliable batters in the format. In T20Is, his quick scoring and innovative shot-making have made him a formidable opponent for any bowling attack.

Breaking Records and Setting New Benchmarks

Kohli’s achievement of 27,000 international runs is not just a testament to his skill but also to his relentless pursuit of excellence. Before this, he had already become the fastest to 25,000 and 26,000 international runs, milestones he reached in February 2023 and October 2023, respectively.

The elite club of cricketers who have surpassed 27,000 international runs includes some of the greatest names in cricket history: Sachin Tendulkar, Ricky Ponting, and Kumar Sangakkara. Kohli’s inclusion in this list, and his achievement of reaching the milestone faster than any of them, underscores his place among the legends of the game.

The Kanpur Test: A Historic Moment

The second Test against Bangladesh in Kanpur will be remembered not just for Kohli’s milestone but also for the thrilling cricket on display. Despite rain disruptions, the Indian team showed aggressive intent, with notable performances from Yashasvi Jaiswal and Rohit Sharma. Kohli’s innings of 47 off 35 balls was a masterclass in stroke play, featuring his trademark drives and flicks. However, his attempt to play across the line led to his dismissal by Shakib Al Hasan.

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