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Key Takeaways
- 1📊 Kohli has achieved No.1 ranking for the 11th time in his career
- 2🏆 His 93 led India's successful chase against New Zealand in Vadodara
- 3💡 Kohli has spent 825 days at No.1, most by any Indian batter
- 4🔮 Purple patch continues with five consecutive strong ODI performances
"New Zealand all-rounder closes in on top spot as well in the ODI rankings while Australia’s Ashes performers gain big in the Test rankings."
Virat Kohli has stormed back to the top of the ICC Men's ODI Batting Rankings following Team India's four-wicket victory over New Zealand in the first ODI. The Indian maestro's resurgence marks his 11th time reaching the summit of international cricket's batting elite.
Purple Patch Continues
Kohli's match-winning 93 off 91 deliveries showcased his scintillating form, propelling him past Rohit Sharma in the rankings. The 37-year-old has been in exceptional touch since the Australian ODI series, stringing together consecutive impressive performances: 74*, 135, 102, 65*, and now 93. This consistency underscores his dominance in the 50-over format as cricket enters a crucial World Cup year.
Beyond the rankings achievement, Kohli continues edging closer to Sachin Tendulkar's all-time international run-scoring record. His second-place position on the all-time men's international runs table demonstrates his enduring excellence across two decades of international cricket.
With the T20 World Cup 2026 approaching, Kohli's return to the No.1 ODI ranking signals ominous intent for opposing teams. His ability to deliver match-winning performances under pressure remains unmatched, making India formidable contenders in upcoming tournaments.
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