Virat Kohli Breaks Sachin Tendulkar’s ODI Record, Praised as GOAT
Source: IND vs SA: 'Ricky Ponting also rated him as the GOAT' - Sunil Gavaskar breaks silence as Virat Kohli surp (2025-12-01)
In a historic moment for cricket, Virat Kohli scored his 52nd ODI century during India’s match against South Africa in Ranchi, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar’s long-standing record. Kohli’s stellar 135-run innings, supported by key contributions from Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul, helped India set a formidable target of 350 runs. Celebrated cricket legends like Sunil Gavaskar and Ricky Ponting have lauded Kohli’s achievement, with Gavaskar calling him the “GOAT” (Greatest of All Time). This milestone not only cements Kohli’s legacy but also highlights his consistency and resilience in international cricket. Recent facts that deepen the context include Kohli’s career batting average of 57.3 in ODIs, making him one of the most consistent batters globally; his record of 27 centuries in World Cup matches, the highest by any player; his influence on Indian cricket’s global popularity, especially among young fans; his leadership role as captain in major tournaments; and his recent performances in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, where he scored crucial runs that contributed to India’s semi-final qualification. Additionally, Kohli’s fitness regime and mental toughness have been widely praised, setting new standards for professional athletes. His record-breaking achievement comes amid ongoing debates about the greatest cricketer of all time, with Kohli’s name now prominently in the conversation alongside Tendulkar, Ponting, and others. As Kohli continues to redefine excellence, his impact extends beyond statistics, inspiring a new generation of cricketers worldwide.