New Delhi, September 27: Virat Kohli became only the second batter to complete 15,000 ODI runs, reaching the landmark in his 303rd innings during India’s match against West Indies in Thiruvananthapuram. Kohli needed 59 runs to reach the milestone and got there in just 46 balls. After completing the landmark with back-to-back boundaries, Kohli raised both hands towards his idol Sachin Tendulkar before acknowledging a standing ovation from the crowd.
Kohli walked into the chase on 14,941 ODI runs, with India having already made a strong start. Rohit Sharma and Shubman Gill took India through the opening phase without allowing West Indies to gain much control, although both had moments of fortune. Gill was dropped by Keemo Paul, while Rohit survived a chance before being dismissed by Alzarri Joseph for 32. India were 74/1 after 12 overs when Kohli came in.
The milestone remained within reach, but Kohli’s batting did not appear dictated by the occasion. He brought up his half-century in 40 balls and continued attacking with nine runs still needed for 15,000. Two successive boundaries took Kohli to 59 and completed the landmark. Kohli reached 15,000 ODI runs in 303 innings, 74 innings quicker than Tendulkar.
