AUCKLAND: Indian batting star Virat Kohli has achieved another major milestone in One Day International cricket, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar to become the highest run-scorer while chasing in ODI history. Kohli reached the landmark during India's first ODI against New Zealand, scoring 74 runs in a crucial innings.
The previous record belonged to Sachin Tendulkar, who had scored 8,720 runs while chasing in ODIs. Kohli went past that tally to claim the top position. The achievement underlines his remarkable consistency and ability to perform under pressure when India are pursuing a target.
Kohli scored 74 off 51 deliveries in the match, hitting 13 fours and one six. He reached his half-century in 35 balls, adding another milestone to his impressive ODI career. His innings helped India recover after an early setback.
India lost Rohit Sharma for a duck in the opening over. Kohli then joined captain Shubman Gill at the crease, and the pair steadied the innings with an important 113-run partnership for the second wicket. Gill contributed 37 runs off 56 deliveries, while Kohli kept the scoreboard moving.
Rain interruptions affected the match, forcing the target to be revised under the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method. New Zealand were bowled out for 185 in 40.2 overs. India's revised target was 143 in 32 overs, which the visitors achieved in 22.4 overs, losing five wickets.
India's bowlers had earlier played a significant role in restricting New Zealand. Arshdeep Singh claimed four wickets, while Gurnoor Brar picked up three and Anshul Kamboj took two. For New Zealand, Tim Seifert scored 38 runs and Blair Tickner made 34 off 23 balls.
