Virat Kohli Became First to Score 12000 runs in T20 cricket

Indian cricket captain Virat Kohli has etched his name in the annals of cricket history by becoming the first Indian cricketer to amass 12,000 runs in the T20 format. This remarkable feat was achieved during the opening match of the 2024 Indian Premier League (IPL) between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium.

Breaking Down the Numbers

Kohli's colossal tally of 12,000 runs encompasses his stellar performances for RCB in the IPL and the now-defunct Champions League, his contributions for Delhi in domestic Twenty-over ricket, and his exploits for the Indian national team in T20 Internationals. Rohit Sharma, Kohli's compatriot, trails behind as the second-highest Indian run-scorer in T20 cricket with an impressive 11,156 runs.

Global Batting Supremacy

While Kohli's achievement is a landmark for Indian cricket, the leading position in the list of highest T20 run-scorers is held by the legendary former West Indies opener, Chris Gayle, who has amassed a staggering 14,562 runs. Following Gayle are former Pakistan captain Shoaib Malik with 13,360 runs and West Indian batting powerhouse Kieron Pollard with 12,900 runs.

The Milestone Moment

Kohli etched his name in history by crossing the 12,000-run milestone in the seventh over of the CSK vs RCB IPL match. With his trademark elegance, he swiped a full ball from Ravindra Jadeja behind square on the leg side for a single, sparking celebrations among his teammates and fans alike. Kohli's T20 career has been adorned with eight centuries and an impressive 91 half-centuries, showcasing his consistency and ability to adapt to the shortest format.

IPL Records Galore

Virat Kohli's impact on the IPL has been nothing short of extraordinary. He holds the record for the highest runs in the tournament's history, amassing a colossal 7,284 runs in 239 matches and 230 innings at an impressive average of 37.24 and a blistering strike rate of 130.02. His best score in the IPL stands at an unbeaten 113, and he has scored seven centuries and 50 half-centuries, solidifying his status as one of the greatest IPL batsmen of all time.

T20I Exploits

Kohli's prowess in the T20 format extends beyond domestic and franchise cricket. Representing India in T20 Internationals, he has scored an impressive 4,037 runs, showcasing his ability to perform at the highest level. Additionally, he has contributed valuable runs for his state team Delhi and various other teams throughout his illustrious career, including a solitary century in T20 Internationals.

Another Milestone against CSK

The same match against CSK witnessed another milestone for Kohli as he completed 1,000 runs against the formidable Chennai franchise. In 32 matches against CSK, Kohli has amassed 1,006 runs at an impressive average of 37.25, including nine half-centuries in 31 innings. This achievement further cements his status as a prolific run-scorer against all oppositions.

Comparisons and Records

While Kohli's achievement of becoming the first Indian to score 12,000 T20 runs is undoubtedly remarkable, it's worth noting that the most runs by a batter against an opposition in the IPL belongs to David Warner, who has scored an astonishing 1,075 runs against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at an average of 44.79 and a blistering strike rate of over 145.

Consistency and Longevity

Virat Kohli's remarkable achievement is a testament to his unwavering consistency, exceptional skill, and longevity in the shortest format of the game. His ability to accumulate runs at a rapid pace while maintaining a healthy average has made him a force to be reckoned with in T20 cricket, both at the domestic and international levels.

Virat Kohli's achievement of becoming the first Indian to score 12,000 T20 runs is a momentous occasion that deserves celebration and recognition. With many more milestones in sight, the Indian captain continues to cement his legacy as one of the greatest batsmen in the history of the game. As he continues to inspire and enthrall fans with his exceptional performances, the cricketing world eagerly awaits the next chapter in Kohli's illustrious career.