Virat Kohli has etched his name further into cricket's record books, surpassing Kumar Sangakkara to become the second-highest run-scorer in international cricket. Only Sachin Tendulkar, the legendary Indian batsman, stands ahead of him. This milestone was achieved during the first ODI against New Zealand at the BCA International Stadium in Kotambi, Vadodara on Sunday, January 11, 2026.

Kohli began the match a mere 42 runs shy of Sangakkara's career total of 28,016 runs and reached the milestone in the 19th over of India's innings. In the process of surpassing Sangakkara, Kohli also became the fastest player to reach 28,000 international runs, achieving the feat in just 624 innings, eclipsing Tendulkar's previous record of 644 innings. Sangakkara had reached the same mark in 666 innings.

Sachin Tendulkar amassed 34,357 runs in 664 international matches. He also holds the record for the most centuries in international cricket, with 100, followed by Kohli with 84. Tendulkar also holds the record for the most runs in both Test matches (15,921) and ODIs (18,426).

Kohli's journey to the second spot has been marked by remarkable consistency and an ability to score runs across all formats of the game. Before the ODI series opener, Kohli had accumulated 27,975 runs in 556 matches and 623 innings, maintaining an average of 52.58, including 84 centuries and 145 half-centuries.

While Tendulkar's aggregate of 34,357 runs remains a significant distance away, Kohli's current form suggests he is the active player most likely to reach the milestone.

Kohli, who made his international debut in 2008, has become synonymous with relentless run-scoring. His hunger for runs, combined with his fitness and adaptability, sets him apart. Some of his notable achievements include winning the U-19 World Cup in 2008, being a crucial part of the 2011 ODI World Cup-winning team, and lifting the 2013 Champions Trophy. Individually, Kohli holds the record for the most centuries in ODIs. In November 2023, he surpassed Tendulkar's record for most ODI centuries.

Kohli has also demonstrated his commitment to Test cricket, even after achieving considerable success in the limited-overs formats. He has 30 centuries in Test cricket.

As Kohli continues his career, his fans and cricket enthusiasts worldwide will be watching to see how many more records he can break.