Virat Kohli Achieves Another Milestone: Completes 550 International Matches

Star batsman Virat Kohli reached a rare milestone during the ICC Champions Trophy final against New Zealand in Dubai. This marks his third consecutive Champions Trophy final appearance. Additionally, he has become the second Indian cricketer to play 550 international matches, following only Sachin Tendulkar, who played 664 matches.

Sachin Tendulkar, who retired in 2013, represented India in 200 Test matches, 463 ODIs, and one T20I. In comparison, Kohli has so far played 123 Test matches, 302 ODIs, and 125 T20Is for India.

Kohli has been in outstanding form in the Champions Trophy. Before the final, he had scored 217 runs in four matches, including a century. In ODIs, Kohli has amassed 14,180 runs at an average of 58.11, with 51 centuries to his name, further cementing his dominance in the format.

Speaking on an ICC review, former Indian cricketer Ravi Shastri described Kohli as an undisputed king of the 50-over format. He noted that Kohli had worked on improving his game, which occasionally led to challenges, but now he has returned to his natural style—rotating the strike, minimizing aerial shots, and going for big hits only when necessary.

Shastri also praised Kohli’s relentless energy at the crease, highlighting his ability to stay composed and play every ball with intent.