Kohli Surpasses Sangakkara to Become Second-Highest Run-Scorer in ODIs

A new chapter was written at the Sydney Cricket Ground today as Virat Kohli overtook Sri Lankan legend Kumar Sangakkara to become the second-highest run-scorer in ODI history.

Kohli entered the match with 14,181 runs, needing 54 more to surpass Sangakkara’s tally of 14,234. By the time he guided India to victory, his career total had climbed to 14,255 runs.

What makes the feat even more remarkable is Kohli’s efficiency — he achieved the milestone in just 293 innings, whereas Sangakkara took 380. At the top of the list remains another Indian legend, Sachin Tendulkar, with 18,426 runs in 452 innings.

Reflecting on his performance after the match, Kohli said:

“Sometimes, being away from the game helps. Even at this stage, there are always things to learn. When situations go against you, that’s when you’re truly tested. The middle overs bring out the best in me. Batting with Rohit is always easy. I’m really happy I could finish the game.”

He also expressed gratitude to the Australian fans, saying:

“Even the opposition knows that if Rohit and I bat together for 20 overs, the game is as good as done. We love coming to this country — we’ve played some of our best matches here. The crowd here is always fantastic.”

With this milestone, Kohli not only reaffirmed his status as one of cricket’s greatest chasers but also continued his pursuit of Tendulkar’s long-standing ODI record.