IND vs SL: In the realm of cricket, records are often compared to milestones. And when it’s about Indian cricket, two names invariably dominate the discussion – Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli.
Virat and Sachin: An Ongoing Tussle for Supremacy:
Both Virat Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar are known for their batting prowess and the ability to consistently notch up runs. They currently share a record of accumulating one thousand runs in a calendar year the most number of times. However, the ongoing match against Sri Lanka could witness Kohli overtaking the legendary ‘Little Master’ in this aspect.
The Match to Remember:
IND vs SL: As the Indian cricket team gears up to face Sri Lanka today, November 2, all eyes are on Virat Kohli. He stands on the precipice of surpassing Sachin Tendulkar in achieving the 1000-run mark in a calendar year the most times. Both stalwarts, up until now, have achieved this feat 7 times. Today could be the day Kohli inches ahead.
Kohli’s Current Run Tally:
Virat Kohli, the modern-day run machine, has already amassed 966 runs in ODIs this year. With just 34 more runs, he’ll achieve the 1000-run milestone, making him the first cricketer to do so eight times in a calendar year in ODIs.
A Glimpse into Virat’s 1000-Run Years:
2011: Scored 1381 runs in 34 matches, averaging 47.62 with 4 centuries.
2012: Accumulated 1026 runs in 17 matches, averaging an impressive 68.40 with 5 tons.
2013: Racked up 1268 runs in 34 matches, maintaining an average of 52.83.
2014: Scored 1054 runs in 21 matches, averaging 58.55.
2017: Achieved 1460 runs in 26 matches, holding a staggering average of 76.84.
2018: Managed 1202 runs in 14 matches, boasting an average of 133.55.
2019: Compiled 1377 runs in 26 matches, with an average of 59.86.
Kohli’s Return to Form:
IND vs SL: Post-2019, Virat went through a challenging phase. His form took a hit, and for nearly two and a half years, he remained century-less in all formats. These challenging times also saw him relinquishing the captaincy in all three formats. However, like a true champion, Virat found his mojo back during the Asia Cup 2022 and has since been on a run spree. This year seems to mark his return to the elite ‘1000 ODI runs in a calendar year’ club after a three-year hiatus.
As the match unfolds, cricket enthusiasts around the world are keenly watching. Will Virat add another feather to his already illustrious cap? Only time will tell.
Image Credit – hindustantimes