Wed Jan 14 08:10:00 UTC 2026: ### Kohli Reclaims Top Spot in ICC ODI Rankings After Four-Year Wait

The Story:
Indian star batsman Virat Kohli has once again ascended to the number one position in the ICC ODI batting rankings after a wait of four years. This achievement comes after a stellar performance, including a 93-run innings against New Zealand. Kohli surpassed his teammate Rohit Sharma to claim the top spot. His consistent form in ODIs, demonstrated by strong performances in his last five matches, propelled him to this ranking.

Kohli previously lost his top ranking in early 2021 when Babar Azam overtook him. The recent rankings update shows a close competition with New Zealand’s Daryl Mitchell, but Kohli secured the top position with 785 points.

Key Points:

  • Virat Kohli is now the number one ODI batsman with a rating of 785.
  • He regained the top spot after 1404 days.
  • Daryl Mitchell of New Zealand is a close second with 784 points.
  • Rohit Sharma dropped to third place with 775 points.
  • In the ICC ODI Bowlers rankings, Rashid Khan of Afghanistan holds the top spot with a rating of 710.
  • During the match against New Zealand, Kohli completed 28,000 runs in international cricket.
  • Kohli is the third batsman to reach 28,000 international runs, after Sachin Tendulkar and Kumar Sangakkara, achieving this in 624 innings, making him the fastest to reach this milestone.

Key Takeaways:

  • Virat Kohli’s return to the top of the ODI rankings signifies his enduring form and dominance in the format.
  • The narrow margin between Kohli and Mitchell indicates an increasingly competitive environment in ODI batting.
  • Kohli’s achievement of 28,000 international runs further solidifies his legacy as one of the greatest batsmen of all time.
  • The rankings highlight the global diversity in cricket, with players from Afghanistan and England leading in bowling categories.

    Read More