Virat Kohli’s mastery in run-chases was on full display once again as he anchored India’s successful pursuit of 265 against Australia in the ICC Champions Trophy semi-final in Dubai.
While he didn’t stay until the end, his composed 84 ensured India’s passage to the final.
Australia’s Steve Smith, a modern-day great himself, was quick to acknowledge Kohli’s brilliance. "He's arguably the best chaser the game has seen," Smith said post-match.
It was no surprise to see Virat Kohli being named player-of-the-match in the semi-final against Australia.
Kohli's run-chase dominance:
Kohli’s career ODI average of 64.50 in run-chases is nearly eight runs higher than AB de Villiers, who sits second.
When India successfully completes a chase, Kohli’s numbers soar even higher—he averages 89.50, demonstrating his ability to finish games consistently.
His dominance is further highlighted by his ability to control the tempo of an innings. Kohli oftens takes singles and doubles wherever possible, ensuring the target remains in reach even during the middle overs.
He has scored more singles than any player in ODI history, with a staggering 5,870 singles—a number that alone would place him third on England’s all-time ODI run-scoring list.
The Art of the Chase:
Kohli’s ability to soak up pressure and accelerate when needed has made him nearly impossible to contain.
"This game is all about pressure, especially in big games like semis and finals," Kohli explained after his knock against Australia. "If you go deep enough into the innings, the opposition usually gives in, and then the game becomes easier."
His control over his impulses is key to his success. He maintains a sharp awareness of the required run rate and the number of wickets in hand, ensuring that he remains calm even when the chase gets tight.
Even bowlers who have troubled him in Tests struggle to unsettle him in ODIs. Australia’s Adam Zampa had dismissed Kohli five times in previous encounters, but Kohli still managed to neutralize the leg-spinner by rotating strike effectively, striking only when the opportunity presented itself.
Breaking records along the way:
Kohli’s consistency in ICC events is also unmatched. His half-century against Australia was his 24th in ICC ODI tournaments, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar’s record of 23.
What's more impressive is Kohli completed his 24 half-centuries in 53 innings, 5 fewer than Tendulkar's 58.
His 28 centuries while chasing remain the most in ODI history, significantly ahead of Tendulkar’s 17. More importantly, over 70% of Kohli’s runs in chases have resulted in victories, the highest for any batter in the format.
For Kohli, it has never been about personal milestones but about taking India over the line.
"When you don't think about milestones, they happen along the way," he said. "For me, it’s all about taking pride in victory and doing what’s best for the team."
With numbers like these, there is little room for debate—Virat Kohli is the greatest run-chaser in ODI history.
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