Virat Kohli Chasing 28,000 Runs & Record-Breaking Feats in 1st ODI Against South Africa

As India gears up to take on South Africa in the ODI Series at home, Virat Kohli goes into the series as not just an experienced campaigner but a batsman at the cusp of several major historical milestones. Riding momentum from a strong finish in the recent Australia series, he has the chance to add new chapters to an already storied career.

Virat Kohli's Back-To-Back Ducks and Comeback in Third ODI Against Australia

Yes, after a tough start, Kohli ended on a high. He produced a composed match-winning 74* in the third ODI at Sydney to remind us that his technique and temperament remain elite even when the pressure is on. This knock gave his rhythm and confidence a crucial boost as he goes into a big home series.

Will Virat Kohli Surpass Sangakkara in the Most International Runs List?

Virat Kohli is just a few hundred runs away from the big milestone of 28,000 runs across all international formats. Reaching there will place him amongst the very top run-scorers in cricket history.

Here's where he and other legends currently sit - all formats combined:

• Sachin Tendulkar - 34,357 runs (all formats)

• Kumar Sangakkara – 28,016 runs (all formats)

• Virat Kohli – 27,673 runs (active)

• Ricky Ponting - 27,483 runs (all formats)

• Mahela Jayawardene - 25,957 runs (all formats)

If Kohli adds a couple of strong innings in this series, he could surpass 28,000, bringing him second only to Sangakkara in the active rankings and narrowing the gap with Tendulkar's record.

Could Virat Kohli Become the 2nd-Highest Run-Scorer Ever?

With 344 runs to go, Kohli will go past the current second place in the all-time run-scorers list held by Sangakkara with 28,016 runs. Crossing that number will make him the highest-scoring active batter, a remarkable accolade in an era where there are fewer matches and more rotation.

The numbers suggest that, given his recent form and the home conditions in this coming series, it is a realistic possibility.

India vs South Africa ODI Series: Can Viat Kohli Smash More Records in the South Africa Series?

Another Century: A ton would reinforce his pursuit as one of the most prolific century-makers in a single format.

More 50+ Scores at Home: A solid knock or two at home would further strengthen his dominance on Indian pitches.

Consistency Across Formats: As Kohli nears these aggregate-run milestones, it underlines his sustained excellence across Tests, ODIs, and T20Is.

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