Kohli Surpasses Sachin Tendulkar’s ODI Century Record—A New Chapter in Cricket History
When the headline “Kohli surpasses Sachin Tendulkar’s ODI century record” flashed across screens worldwide, cricket fans knew they were witnessing history in real time. Virat Kohli, already a modern legend, added yet another golden feather to his overflowing cap by smashing a majestic hundred against South Africa in Raipur. But what makes this moment truly special? Why is the cricketing world buzzing like never before?
Because milestones like these don’t just rewrite record books—they redefine eras.
Kohli Surpasses Sachin Tendulkar’s ODI Century Record: What Exactly Happened?
Virat Kohli produced an absolute masterclass in the second ODI against South Africa at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium. Coming into the match after a match-winning century in Ranchi, Kohli looked unstoppable from ball one.
He crafted a 90-ball ODI century, peppered with seven fours and two towering sixes, showcasing the same grafter-meets-gladiator style that has defined his career.
But here’s where it becomes historic:
- This was Kohli’s 84th international century, pushing him four hundreds ahead of Sachin Tendulkar in ODI hundreds.
- He now owns the record for most consecutive ODI hundreds (11 times)—a feat no player in cricket history has matched.
- Raipur became the 34th ODI venue where Kohli has scored a century, equalling Tendulkar’s record for most venues to score ODI tons.
So when we say “Kohli surpasses Sachin Tendulkar’s ODI century record,” it’s not just about one stat—it’s about an avalanche of broken barriers.
Kohli’s Dominance Continues: A Tale of Consistency and Class
Ever wondered what makes Kohli so different? Why does he keep breaking records thought to be unbreakable?
The answer lies in his incredible consistency—especially in ODI cricket. Between 2016 and 2018, Kohli made scoring consecutive centuries look like weekend errands. And in Raipur, he turned back the clock during his purple patch in glorious fashion.
Key Highlights of Kohli’s Record-Breaking Century
- 84th international century
- Second successive ODI ton vs South Africa
- 11th career instance of back-to-back ODI hundreds
- Average of nearly 70 vs South Africa in ODIs
- Equalled Sachin’s 34 ODI venues with a century
With an ODI average touching 70 against South Africa—higher than any batter with 1500+ runs against them—Kohli has shown time and again why he is the “boss of white-ball cricket.”
Ruturaj Gaikwad’s Maiden Century Completes the Perfect Pairing
While the spotlight is understandably on the headline “Kohli surpasses Sachin Tendulkar’s ODI century record,” let’s not forget the other hero of the evening—Ruturaj Gaikwad.
Gaikwad smashed his first-ever ODI hundred in just his eighth outing. His smooth 105-run innings set the stage beautifully for Kohli’s record-breaking feat. Once Gaikwad departed, Kohli accelerated effortlessly, reaching his historic ton shortly after.
The duo’s partnership showcased India’s growing depth in white-ball cricket—youth blending with legendary experience.
Kohli Surpasses Sachin Tendulkar’s ODI Century Record: The Updated Leaderboard
Here’s a quick glance at how the all-time ODI centurion leaderboard now stands:
| Rank | Player | ODI Centuries |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Virat Kohli | Record-breaking lead ahead of Tendulkar |
| 2 | Sachin Tendulkar | Behind Kohli |
| 3 | Rohit Sharma | 26 |
| 4 | Hashim Amla | 21 |
| 5 | AB de Villiers | 21 |
Kohli’s total of 84 international tons puts him just behind Tendulkar’s 100 centuries, but he is miles ahead of any active player—including Joe Root (58).
Why Kohli’s Vijay Hazare Decision Matters Right Now?
Interestingly, Kohli’s historic hundred came just a day after he confirmed his availability for the Vijay Hazare Trophy—India’s premier domestic 50-over tournament.
This came despite reports that both he and Rohit Sharma were earlier advised by the BCCI to participate, with speculation of resistance from both sides. Kohli’s comeback to domestic cricket, however, quells all doubts about his commitment and competitive mindset.
Former India batter Mohammed Kaif offered his strong opinion ahead of the match:
“If Kohli can bat like this after 35 days without international cricket, how can you force him to play domestic? He shows he is the boss in this format.”
Kaif’s words ring even truer now—especially with fresh headlines saying “Kohli surpasses Sachin Tendulkar’s ODI century record.”
Final Word: Kohli Surpasses Sachin Tendulkar’s ODI Century Record—What Now?
With each passing series, Virat Kohli continues to rewrite what modern greatness looks like. Surpassing Sachin Tendulkar—cricket’s most iconic figure—is no small feat. And yet, Kohli has done it with flair, grit, and unmatched hunger.
What’s next?
More centuries? More records? More eras rewritten?
If history has taught us anything, it’s this:
When Kohli is in form, no record is safe.
