Has Virat Kohli Surpassed Sangakkara to Become the Second-Highest Run-Scorer of All Time?
Synopsis
In a stunning display of skill and perseverance, Virat Kohli has surpassed Kumar Sangakkara, becoming the second-highest run-scorer in international cricket history. With only Sachin Tendulkar ahead of him, Kohli's remarkable achievements continue to elevate his status in the cricketing world, showcasing his extraordinary talent and dedication to the sport.
Key Takeaways
Virat Kohli has become the second-highest run-scorer in international cricket.
Kohli surpassed Kumar Sangakkara during an ODI against New Zealand.
He achieved 28,016 runs in international cricket.
Kohli is the fastest player to reach 28,000 runs in just 624 innings.
Sachin Tendulkar remains the highest run-scorer with 34,357 runs .
Vadodara, Jan 11 (NationPress) Indian cricket icon Virat Kohli has eclipsed Sri Lankan great Kumar Sangakkara to become the second-highest run-scorer in the annals of international cricket, trailing only the legendary Sachin Tendulkar, who maintains his position at the summit of the list.
Kohli achieved the remarkable feat of 28,016 runs during India's opening ODI against New Zealand held at the BCA International Stadium in Kotambi, Vadodara, on Sunday.
Tendulkar holds the record for the highest runs in international cricket, amassing 34,357 runs across 664 matches and 782 innings, with an average of 48.25, along with an impressive tally of 100 centuries and 164 fifties.
By scoring his 42nd run on the fifth ball of the 20th over, Kohli surpassed Sangakkara, elevating himself to the second position among the all-time highest run-scorers in cricket.
Sangakkara concluded his international career with 28,016 runs from 594 matches and 666 innings, maintaining an average of 46.77, including 63 centuries and 153 half-centuries.
Earlier in his innings, Kohli reached the milestone of 28,000 international runs, becoming the fastest cricketer to achieve this in just 624 innings, surpassing the previous world record holder, Tendulkar, who accomplished this in 644 innings.
Before the commencement of the ODI series, Kohli needed just 25 runs to hit 28,000 international runs. The right-handed batsman had already scored 27,975 runs over 556 matches and 623 innings, boasting a remarkable average of 52.58, with 84 centuries and 145 half-centuries.
In his 309th ODI for India, Kohli struck a boundary off New Zealand’s Adithya Ashok on the fifth ball of the 13th over, officially crossing the 28,000-run mark in international cricket.
Kohli stepped onto the field at No. 3 after Rohit Sharma was dismissed in the ninth over by Kyle Jamieson. Both senior players have been in phenomenal form in 50-over cricket, continuing to demonstrate their prowess against the BlackCaps in the first ODI.
Point of View
Virat Kohli's achievement is not just a personal milestone but a significant moment for Indian cricket. It underscores the depth of talent in our national team and sets a new benchmark for future cricketers. Kohli's relentless pursuit of excellence inspires aspiring athletes across the nation, reinforcing India's position as a powerhouse in the cricketing world.
NationPress
12 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What record did Virat Kohli break?
Virat Kohli surpassed Kumar Sangakkara to become the second-highest run-scorer in international cricket history.
How many runs has Kohli scored in international cricket?
As of now, Kohli has scored 28,016 runs in international cricket.
Who holds the record for most runs in international cricket?
Sachin Tendulkar holds the record for the most runs, with a total of 34,357 runs.
How fast did Kohli reach 28,000 runs?
Virat Kohli reached 28,000 international runs in just 624 innings, making him the fastest to achieve this milestone.
What are Kohli's overall statistics?
Kohli has played 556 matches and 623 innings, with an average of 52.58, including 84 centuries and 145 half-centuries.
