Virat Kohli Hits 50th Away ODI Fifty-Plus Score, Becomes First Batter To Achieve Historic Feat

Virat Kohli added another record to his name during the first ODI between India and New Zealand at Eden Park in Auckland on Wednesday (November 4). The former India captain became the first batter in the world to register 50 scores of 50 or more runs in away ODIs.

Batting at No. 3, Kohli looked in good touch despite the rain interruptions. He brought up his half-century in just 35 balls, reaching the landmark during India’s chase of 186.

The fifty was Kohli’s 29th half-century in away ODIs. He has also scored 21 centuries in matches played at the opposition’s home ground, taking his total number of 50-plus scores to 50.

No other batter has managed to reach this landmark in ODI cricket.

Former Sri Lanka captain Kumar Sangakkara is second on the list with 45 scores of 50 or more in away ODIs. He achieved the feat in 149 matches, scoring 10 centuries and 35 half-centuries.

Most 50-Plus Scores In Away ODIs

Kohli Equals Ricky Ponting’s Record Against New Zealand

Kohli finished the rain-affected first ODI with 74 runs off 51 balls. His innings included another major milestone as he moved level with Ricky Ponting at the top of the list of batters with the most ODI runs against New Zealand.

Both Kohli and Ponting now have 1,971 runs against the Black Caps in the 50-over format.

Kohli reached the mark in just 38 innings, while Ponting took 50 innings to score the same number of runs. The Indian star also has seven centuries and 10 half-centuries against New Zealand.

Sachin Tendulkar is third on the list with 1,750 runs, followed by Kumar Sangakkara (1,568) and Sanath Jayasuriya (1,519).