Virat Kohli: The ODI Records Within Reach in 2026

As Virat Kohli continues his stellar career, several historic ODI records are within striking distance. Here's what the maestro could achieve this year.

Virat Kohli, arguably one of the greatest batters in cricket history, continues to rewrite record books with remarkable consistency. As 2026 unfolds, several significant ODI milestones are within the Indian maestro's reach.

Current ODI Statistics

Records Within Reach

1. Most ODI Centuries (All-Time)

Current Record: Sachin Tendulkar - 49 centuries

Virat Kohli has already surpassed Sachin's record with 50 centuries, becoming the first player in history to score 50 ODI hundreds. Every additional century extends his own record.

Projection: Could reach 55 centuries by end of 2026 if he maintains his current form.

2. Fastest to 14,000 ODI Runs

Current Record: Sachin Tendulkar - 350 innings

Kohli is on track to become the fastest to 14,000 ODI runs. With approximately 200 more runs needed and his average of 57+, he could achieve this landmark in significantly fewer innings than Tendulkar.

Projection: Could achieve this in his next 4-5 innings.

3. Most Runs in Successful ODI Chases

Kohli already holds this record and continues to extend it with every successful chase. His ability to pace innings while chasing is unmatched in cricket history.

Current tally: 7,000+ runs in successful chases Conversion rate: Exceptional, with numerous match-winning knocks

4. Most Player of the Match Awards in ODIs

Current Record: Sachin Tendulkar - 62 awards

Kohli is closing in on this record with 40+ Player of the Match awards. His consistent match-winning performances put him in contention to surpass this milestone.

5. Highest Average in ODI Cricket (Min. 10,000 runs)

Among batters with 10,000+ runs, Kohli's average of 57+ is already the highest. Each innings adds to this remarkable achievement.

6. Most Centuries Against a Single Opposition

Kohli has already set records for most centuries against:

• Australia: 9 centuries
• West Indies: 9 centuries
• Sri Lanka: 8 centuries

He could extend these records further in 2026.

Why Kohli is Exceptional

Consistency Across Conditions

Chase Master

Kohli's record while chasing is phenomenal:

• Average while chasing: 65+
• Centuries while chasing: 27
• Win percentage when Kohli scores 100 in chase: 90%+

Pressure Performer

In knockout matches and high-pressure situations, Kohli has consistently delivered:

• World Cup performances: Multiple match-winning innings
• Asia Cup dominance: Stellar record
• Bilateral series deciders: Exceptional average

Upcoming Opportunities in 2026

Expert Opinions

Cricket analysts believe Kohli could achieve the following by end of 2026:

• 55+ centuries: Extending his own world record
• 15,000 runs: Second player after Tendulkar
• 60+ average: Maintaining best-ever average

The Legacy Factor

What makes Kohli's chase for records special:

1. Era of competition: Achieving records against stronger bowling attacks
2. Maintained fitness: Playing at peak level in his mid-30s
3. Format dominance: Excellence across all formats simultaneously
4. Big-match temperament: Performing when stakes are highest

Conclusion

Virat Kohli enters 2026 with several historic milestones within reach. With the Champions Trophy, multiple bilateral series, and other ICC events on the calendar, the stage is set for the modern great to add more chapters to his extraordinary legacy.

Cricket fans worldwide will watch eagerly as Kohli continues his assault on the record books, cementing his status as one of the greatest to ever play the game.