Indian cricket icon Virat Kohli has rewritten history once again by scoring the 52nd ODI century. During the opening ODI in India vs South Africa at the JSCA International Stadium Complex in Ranchi, the 36-year-old superstar smashed his 52nd century. Hence, he has officially broken Sachin Tendulkar’s legendary record for the most centuries ever scored in a single international format.
This monument moment has sent shockwaves of excitement across cricket-loving nations, including in the UAE, where millions follow the career of Kohli personally. Moreover, the dominance of the superstar continues to highlight his status as one of the greatest batters in modern sport. Hence, the cricketing world celebrates this extraordinary achievement.
Virat Kohli Surpasses Sachin Tendulkar’s Historic Milestone
Before this match, Kohli and Tendulkar were tied with 51 centuries in a single format, as Kohli had the same number of centuries in ODI and Tendulkar had it in Tests. Now, Kohli stands alone at the top with his latest masterclass against the Proteas.
Most Centuries in a Single Format – Updated List
- Virat Kohli – 52 in ODIs
- Sachin Tendulkar – 51 in Tests
- Sachin Tendulkar – 49 in ODIs
- Jacques Kallis – 45 in Tests
- Ricky Ponting – 41 in Tests
This 52nd ton is also his 83rd international century, as he inches him closer to another unachievable milestone.
A Vintage Kohli Knock in Ranchi
Kohli’s inning was a perfect mix of composure, timing, and dominance. He came earlier after the dismissal of Yashasvi Jaiswal. Moreover, he stabilised the innings with Rohit Sharma to form an important partnership when other Indian batters struggled.
Key Highlights of Kohli’s Record-Breaking Innings
- Reached a century in 102 balls
- Hit 7 fours and 5 sixes
- Brought up his fifty with a six off 48 balls
- Hammered 20 runs in five balls in the 39th over
- Finally dismissed for 135, caught by Ryan Rickleton
Fans at the stadium saw a masterclass, full of classic cover drives, impeccable timing, and powerful strokes. Hence, this stroke proves that Kohli is still at the peak of his game even at 36.
Most Centuries Against South Africa
Kohli has shattered one more record in this century. However, he has become a player with the most centuries against South Africa.
Most ODI Centuries vs South Africa
- Virat Kohli – 6
- Sachin Tendulkar – 5
- David Warner – 5
His unmatched consistency against the Proteas is supporting his reputation as one of the most reliable ODI batters in cricket history.
Chasing 28,000 International Runs
The achievement of Kohli does not stop here. Now, he is also eyeing another elite milestone, which is the 28,000-run mark in international cricket. Only Sachin Tendulkar and Kumar Sangakkara have gone past this number. However, Kohli only needs 337 runs before the start of this series. So, his current form suggests that he might achieve the milestone soon.
Why This Record Matters to UAE Cricket Fans
Cricket has a broader following across the UAE, as Kohli has a massive fan base among Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, and Sri Lankan expatriates. Moreover, his consistent high-class performance makes this achievement meaningful for fans in the UAE. However, he made many records in the Dubai stadium.
The UAE has hosted Kohli in ICC tournaments, IPL matches, and bilateral series. Therefore, it makes the local cricket community deeply connected to his journey.
Final words
Virat Kohli 52nd ODI century is a defining moment in modern cricket. By overtaking Sachin Tendulkar’s all-time record, he has strengthened his legacy as one of the greatest batters ever to play the game. Now, the cricket world is waiting to see what Virat Kohli will achieve next.
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