Virat Kohli's Historic Milestone: First Indian to 12,000 T20 Runs
In a thrilling match between the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and the Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) during the IPL 2024 opener, Virat Kohli, the cricket sensation, etched his name in the history books. Let's dive into Kohli's monumental achievement and the records he has shattered in the world of T20 cricket.
Virat Kohli: A Trailblazer in T20 Cricket
After a brief hiatus from competitive cricket due to the birth of his child, Virat Kohli made a triumphant return to the field. In a spectacular display of skill and determination, Kohli became the first Indian player to achieve a monumental milestone in T20 cricket. Facing off against CSK, Kohli led the RCB charge and left an indelible mark on the cricketing world.
With his exceptional performance, Virat Kohli became the first Indian cricketer to score a staggering 12,000 runs in T20 cricket. This remarkable feat catapulted Kohli into an elite league of players, solidifying his status as one of the greatest cricketers of his generation. Notably, Kohli achieved this milestone in his 377th T20 match, showcasing his unwavering consistency and skill on the field.
Joining the Elite Club
Before Kohli's historic achievement, only a select few players worldwide had reached the monumental milestone of 12,000 T20 runs. Names like Chris Gayle, Shoaib Malik, Kieron Pollard, Alex Hales, and David Warner adorned this exclusive list. Kohli's entry into this prestigious club further underscores his dominance and influence in the realm of T20 cricket.
Here are five of his outstanding T20 knocks:
55 vs Pakistan at Kolkata in 2016 World T20*:
In a crucial match against arch-rivals Pakistan, India was struggling at 23/3 while chasing a modest target of 119.
Kohli’s unbeaten half-century guided India to victory, showcasing his masterful strokeplay and composure under pressure.
90 vs Australia at Adelaide in 2016*:
After a disappointing ODI series, Kohli continued his red-hot form in the T20 format.
His unbeaten 90 ensured India’s victory in the first T20I, setting the tone for a 3-0 series win against Australia.
49 vs Pakistan at Dhaka in 2016 Asia Cup:
Facing Pakistan in a crucial Asia Cup encounter, India was reeling at 10/3.
Kohli weathered Mohammad Amir’s fiery spell and played some mind-boggling shots to secure a memorable victory for India.
72 vs South Africa at Dhaka in 2014 World T20*:
In the semifinal of the 2014 World T20, India faced a challenging target of 172 against a strong South African attack.
Kohli’s brilliant innings against Dale Steyn helped India reach the final, where they eventually became champions.
Unbeaten 78 vs Pakistan in a T20 World Cup group match:
This knock extended India’s unbeaten streak against Pakistan in World Cups.
Kohli’s consistency and match-winning performances have solidified his status as one of the greatest T20 batsmen.
A Glorious Return to the IPL
Kohli's return to competitive cricket during the IPL 2024 opener was met with immense anticipation and excitement. In addition to his record-breaking feat, Kohli also notched another significant milestone by becoming the second player to score 1000 runs against CSK in the IPL, further cementing his legacy in the tournament's history.
Virat Kohli's remarkable tally of 12,000 runs showcases his unwavering commitment to cricket and solidifies his status as one of the sport's greatest superstars. It stands as a testament to his unmatched talent, dedication, and relentless pursuit of excellence on the field
