Virat Kohli has made history by becoming the first batter in One Day International (ODI) cricket to score 13,000 runs while batting at the No. 3 position. This remarkable achievement took place on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, during the first ODI against New Zealand at Eden Park in Auckland. Kohli’s accomplishment further cements his legacy as one of the greatest ODI batters in cricket history.

The milestone was reached in a batting position that has seen contributions from some of the sport’s most renowned players. Prior to Kohli, only Sachin Tendulkar had surpassed the 13,000-run mark at a single batting position in ODIs, having scored 13,685 runs while batting at No. 2. Kohli’s achievement highlights his consistency and skill in the format.

As of this match, Kohli leads the list of highest run-scorers at No. 3 with exactly 13,000 runs, boasting an impressive average of 61.61. Following him is former Australia captain Ricky Ponting, who has accumulated 12,662 runs at an average of 42.48. Sri Lankan legend Kumar Sangakkara is third on the list with 9,747 runs at 44.71.

Top Run-Scorers at No. 3 in ODI Cricket

The rankings for the most runs scored at the No. 3 position in ODI cricket are as follows: Virat Kohli leads with 13,000 runs, followed by Ricky Ponting with 12,662 runs. Kumar Sangakkara is in third place with 9,747 runs, while South Africa’s Jacques Kallis holds fourth with 7,774 runs. New Zealand’s Kane Williamson is fifth with 6,504 runs. Completing the top seven are Pakistan’s Babar Azam with 6,054 runs and England’s Joe Root with 5,525 runs.

Kohli’s performance in the match was not limited to his batting alone. He made a significant impact in the field as well, taking a remarkable one-handed catch to dismiss Nathan Smith off the bowling of Anshul Kamboj. This all-round contribution underscores his value to the Indian team.

In this ODI series opener, India made a strong start after captain Shubman Gill opted to bowl first. The Indian bowlers successfully restricted New Zealand to a total of 185 runs in 40.2 overs. Arshdeep Singh was particularly effective, taking four wickets, while Gurnoor Brar contributed with three wickets and Anshul Kamboj added two to his tally. This solid bowling performance set a strong foundation for India’s innings.

India’s Strong Start in the ODI Series

Virat Kohli returned to India’s ODI playing XI for this five-match series, joining fellow batsmen Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul. The team’s decision to bowl first proved advantageous, as they managed to dismiss New Zealand for a modest total. The bowlers’ efforts were complemented by Kohli’s fielding prowess, showcasing his all-round capabilities.

As the series progresses, Kohli’s historic achievement adds an extra layer of excitement for fans and players alike. His record at the No. 3 position not only reflects his individual talent but also contributes to the larger narrative of India’s cricketing success. The team will look to build on this strong start as they continue their campaign against New Zealand.

With Kohli’s milestone and India’s promising performance, the series is poised to be an engaging contest. Fans will be keenly watching how the rest of the matches unfold, especially with Kohli’s form and the team’s dynamics in play.

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