Most Explosive Opening Pairs Ever in IPL

1. Chris Gayle and Virat Kohli (Royal Challengers Bangalore)

When Chris Gayle and Virat Kohli opened for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), bowlers ran for cover. From 2011 to 2016, they were unstoppable. Their best moment? The 204-run stand against Delhi Daredevils in 2012 – Gayle smashed 128* off 62, and Kohli added 73* off 53. Gayle’s monster sixes paired with Kohli’s quick running and classy shots made them a nightmare. They scored 2,032 runs together in 49 innings, with a crazy average of 41.46. For me, they’re the gold standard of IPL openers.

Also Read: Most Explosive Opening Pairs Ever in IPL

2. David Warner and Jonny Bairstow (Sunrisers Hyderabad)

In 2019, Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) unleashed David Warner and Jonny Bairstow – and it was pure chaos. These two blasted 1,143 runs in just 14 games, including a jaw-dropping 185-run stand against RCB. Warner’s steady aggression (69* off 37) and Bairstow’s wild hitting (114 off 56) in that game set the tone. They averaged 81.64 together, with five century stands. Watching them take apart bowlers with power and precision was a treat every SRH fan remembers.

3. Gautam Gambhir and Robin Uthappa (Kolkata Knight Riders)

Gautam Gambhir and Robin Uthappa might not seem explosive at first, but their 2014 season with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) was electric. They put on 1,583 runs in 40 innings, averaging over 39. Their 121-run stand in the 2014 final against Kings XI Punjab – Gambhir’s 63 and Uthappa’s 67 – won KKR the title. Gambhir’s calm anchoring let Uthappa go berserk, and their chemistry turned KKR into champions. It’s a partnership I still talk about with friends.

Also Read: Most Explosive Opening Pairs Ever in IPL

4. Adam Gilchrist and Herschelle Gibbs (Deccan Chargers)

Back in 2009, Deccan Chargers (DC) had Adam Gilchrist and Herschelle Gibbs opening – and they were dynamite. They scored 938 runs together in 23 innings, with a standout 136-run partnership against Delhi Daredevils. Gilchrist’s fearless hitting (85 off 35) and Gibbs’ silky strokes (69* off 56) in that game showed their class. They led DC to the 2009 title, proving two overseas stars could dominate. As a fan, their energy was contagious – every ball felt like a boundary waiting to happen.

5. Quinton de Kock and KL Rahul (Lucknow SuperGiants)

Lucknow SuperGiants (LSG) hit the jackpot with Quinton de Kock and KL Rahul in 2022. These two racked up 1,092 runs in 22 innings, averaging a stunning 49.63. Their 210-run unbeaten stand against KKR in 2022 – Rahul’s 68* off 51 and de Kock’s 140* off 70 – is one of IPL’s biggest ever. Rahul’s cool head paired with de Kock’s attacking flair made them a perfect mix. Watching them chase down totals with ease was pure joy for LSG fans like me.

Also Read: Most Explosive Opening Pairs Ever in IPL

Why Do These Pairs Stand Out?

These opening duos didn’t just score runs – they set the game alight. Gayle and Kohli brought raw power, Warner and Bairstow showed ruthless consistency, and de Kock and Rahul blended style with substance. What I love most is how they complemented each other – one attacking, the other steadying the ship. They gave their teams flying starts, often deciding matches in the first six overs. In the IPL, where every run counts, these pairs were gold.

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Evolution of T20 Batting in Indian Premier League

2008-2010: The Power-Hitting Pioneers

When IPL kicked off, T20 was new, and batting was all about muscle. Players like Brendon McCullum set the tone with his 158* off 73 balls in the first-ever match. Big hitters – Adam Gilchrist, Matthew Hayden, and Sanath Jayasuriya – ruled the game.

They didn’t care about technique; they just smashed sixes. Back then, a score of 160 was huge, and 200 felt impossible. Bowlers were still figuring things out, so these early batsmen feasted. It was raw, exciting, and a little crazy – perfect for IPL’s wild start.

Also Read: Evolution of T20 Batting in Indian Premier League

2011-2014: The Rise of Anchors

By 2011, teams realized brute force wasn’t enough. Enter the anchors – batsmen who could hold the innings together. Chris Gayle became a legend, mixing power with patience, like his 175* off 66 balls in 2013.

As per the Evolution of T20 Batting in Indian Premier League. Players like Gautam Gambhir and Virat Kohli showed that staying at the crease mattered. They’d build a base – say, 50 off 40 – then explode. Totals climbed past 180 regularly, and 200 became a real target. Bowlers got smarter, but so did batsmen, adding brains to the brawn.

2015-2018: The 360-Degree Revolution

Around 2015, batting turned into something else – pure invention. AB de Villiers led the charge with his 360-degree style, hitting shots no one had seen before. Scoops, ramps, and reverse sweeps became normal. David Warner’s 2016 season with Sunrisers Hyderabad showed how to mix aggression with control.

Batsmen started targeting every corner of the ground, not just the stands. Power Plays went bonkers – teams like Mumbai Indians and Royal Challengers Bangalore often hit 70+ in the first six overs. Scores of 220 weren’t rare anymore, and bowlers were left scratching their heads.

Also Read: Evolution of T20 Batting in Indian Premier League

2019-2022: The Young Guns Take Over

By 2019, a new breed arrived – fearless youngsters. Rishabh Pant, Prithvi Shaw, and Shubman Gill didn’t wait to settle in; they attacked from ball one. The IPL became a stage for Indian talent to shine alongside stars like Jos Buttler and Kieron Pollard.

Batting wasn’t just about hitting – it was about outsmarting. Players used the crease better, picking gaps with cheeky shots. Chasing 200 became a breeze – think Gujarat Titans’ run-fests in 2022. Bats got bigger, boundaries got shorter, and totals kept climbing. It was fast, furious, and so much fun to watch.

2023-Now: The Modern Masters

Today, in 2025, IPL batting is a science. Look at Shreyas Iyer’s 97* off 42 balls against Gujarat Titans this year – pure class with insane power. Players like Suryakumar Yadav and Ruturaj Gaikwad mix old-school shots with new tricks. They read bowlers like a book, switching gears effortlessly.

Strike rates of 150+ are standard, and 250 isn’t a dream anymore. Power-hitting isn’t enough – you need timing, placement, and guts. Bowlers have fancy variations, but batsmen have answers for everything. It’s a battle of wits, and the bat is winning.

Also Read: Evolution of T20 Batting in Indian Premier League

What’s Changed & Why It Matters?

From McCullum’s wild swings in 2008 to Iyer’s calculated assault in 2025, IPL batting has come a long way. Early days were about power, then came strategy, and now it’s a mix of both – plus a dash of madness. Smaller grounds, better bats, and fearless mindsets have fueled this change. For me, it’s why IPL never gets old.

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Why the IPL Playoffs are Cricket Ultimate Drama?

High Stakes, High Tension

In the playoffs, there’s no room for mistakes. After weeks of league matches, it all boils down to four teams fighting for the trophy. Every ball feels like a movie climax. Take the 2019 final – Mumbai Indians (MI) vs. Chennai Super Kings (CSK). MI defended 149, and with 2 runs needed off the last ball, Lasith Malinga bowled a slower one to trap Shardul Thakur. MI won by 1 run. That tension, that do-or-die vibe – it’s what makes the playoffs unforgettable.

Also Read: IPL Playoffs are Cricket Ultimate Drama

Superstars Under Pressure

The playoffs test even the biggest stars. Legends like MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, and Rohit Sharma have to deliver when it matters most. Sometimes they shine, sometimes they crack. In 2016, Kohli smashed 973 runs in the season for Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB), but in the final, SRH bowled them out for 200 and won by 8 runs. Seeing heroes rise or fall under playoff lights is pure drama – my heart races every time.

Underdog Magic

The playoffs are where underdogs can steal the show. Remember Rajasthan Royals (RR) in 2008? A team of nobodies, led by Shane Warne, stunned CSK in the final with a 3-wicket win off the last ball. Or Gujarat Titans (GT) in 2022 – a new team that beat RR in the final thanks to Hardik Pandya’s all-round brilliance. These Cinderella stories flip the script and keep us guessing. Who doesn’t love a team that defies the odds?

Also Read: IPL Playoffs are Cricket Ultimate Drama

Crazy Finishes That Leave You Speechless

If you want nail-biters, the playoffs deliver. The 2017 final between MI and Rising Pune Supergiant (RPS) is a classic. MI scored just 129, but their bowlers held RPS to 128 – winning by 1 run. Mitchell Johnson’s last over was a rollercoaster – 11 runs needed, and he bowled like a lion. Then there’s the 2021 eliminator – Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) vs. RCB. KKR chased 139, but it came down to 7 runs off the last over. Sunil Narine’s six sealed it. These finishes are why I can’t look away.

Fans Feel Every Moment

The playoffs aren’t just about players – fans live it too. Stadiums turn into seas of color – yellow for CSK, blue for MI, purple for KKR. The noise is deafening, and even at home, I’m screaming at the TV. In 2018, when CSK returned after a ban and reached the final, the Chennai crowd went wild as Dhoni’s team beat SRH. That energy, that connection – it’s what makes the playoffs special. We’re not just watching; we’re part of the story.

Also Read: IPL Playoffs are Cricket Ultimate Drama

Tactics That Twist the Game

Captains and coaches pull out all the stops in the playoffs. Smart moves can change everything. In the 2020 qualifier, MI’s Trent Boult took 3 wickets in the powerplay against Delhi Capitals (DC), setting up a 57-run win. Or think of Dhoni promoting himself in the 2010 final to finish the game for CSK. These brainy decisions under pressure add layers of drama – I love trying to guess what’s coming next.

Why It’s the Best Show in Cricket?

The IPL playoffs mix everything I adore about cricket: big moments, raw emotion, and total unpredictability. One day, a team’s on top; the next, they’re out. It’s a pressure cooker where anything can happen – a low score defended, a huge total chased, or a no-name player becoming a hero. For me, it’s the best part of the IPL – better than any movie or soap opera.

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5 IPL Teams That Defied the Odds

1. Rajasthan Royals, 2008 – The First Fairytale

When the IPL began in 2008, Rajasthan Royals (RR) were the team nobody bet on. With a tiny budget and no mega-stars, they looked like easy prey. Then Shane Warne stepped in. The Aussie legend turned a bunch of youngsters – like Yusuf Pathan and Swapnil Asnodkar – into warriors. RR chased down big totals and bowled out giants, winning the first-ever IPL title against Chennai Super Kings. The shock? A team worth peanuts beat the richest sides with pure guts and Warne’s magic.

Also Read: 5 IPL Teams That Defied the Odds

2. Deccan Chargers, 2009 – From Flops to Champs

Deccan Chargers (DC) were a disaster in 2008, finishing dead last. Everyone wrote them off for 2009, but captain Adam Gilchrist had other plans. With a young Rohit Sharma smashing runs and bowlers like RP Singh swinging the ball, DC turned it around. They stormed into the playoffs and beat Royal Challengers Bangalore in a low-scoring final. The twist? A team that couldn’t win a game the year before lifted the trophy – proof that cricket loves a comeback.

3. Sunrisers Hyderabad, 2016 – The Bowling Brigade

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) weren’t the favorites in 2016. They didn’t have the flashiest batting lineup, and their captain, David Warner, was their only big name. But SRH built a team around bowlers – Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mustafizur Rahman, and Ashish Nehra – who choked opponents. Warner’s 69* in the final against RCB sealed the deal, but it was the bowlers who won it. The surprise? A team relying on defense, not attack, ruled a league known for sixes.

Also Read: 5 IPL Teams That Defied the Odds

4. Rising Pune Supergiant, 2017 – One Run Short

Rising Pune Supergiant (RPS) were a new team in 2016, replacing banned sides. In 2017, with Steve Smith as captain, they shocked everyone. RPS didn’t have the star power of Mumbai Indians (MI) or CSK, but they played smart cricket. Smith’s leadership and Ben Stokes’ all-round brilliance took them to the final. Chasing MI’s 129, they fell just 1 run short in a heartbreaker. What stunned me? A temporary team nearly snatched the crown from IPL’s biggest giants.

5. Gujarat Titans, 2022 – The New Kids on the Block

Gujarat Titans (GT) entered the IPL in 2022 as total unknowns. No one expected much from Hardik Pandya’s squad, filled with uncapped players like Shubman Gill and Rahul Tewatia. But GT played fearless cricket. Pandya led from the front, scoring runs and taking wickets, while their bowlers – Mohammed Shami and Rashid Khan – ran through teams. They beat Rajasthan Royals in the final to win the title in their debut year. The jaw-dropper? A brand-new team outshone veterans in their first shot.

Also Read: 5 IPL Teams That Defied the Odds

Why Do These Stories Hit Differently?

These underdog wins aren’t just about cricket – they’re about hope. I’ve watched IPL seasons where the big teams – MI, CSK, RCB – dominate the chatter, but it’s these minnows that steal my heart. They remind us that money and fame don’t always win; teamwork, belief, and a bit of luck can topple giants. RR’s 2008 run gave the IPL its soul, DC’s 2009 fightback showed resilience, and GT’s 2022 triumph proved fresh faces can shine.

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As someone who’s followed the tournament religiously, I’ve picked out five historical IPL matches that stand out for their sheer drama and brilliance. These games aren’t just about runs or wickets – they’re about stories that shocked the cricket world. Let’s dive into 5 Historical IPL Matches That Might Shock You.

5 Historical IPL Matches That Might Shock You

1. RR vs KKR, 2008 – The First IPL Thriller

The IPL kicked off with a bang on April 18, 2008, but it was the clash between Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on May 1 that set the tone for what was to come. KKR posted 147/8, thanks to Sourav Ganguly’s steady 51. It looked like a defendable total, but Shane Warne had other plans.

RR were struggling at 87/5 when the Aussie legend walked in. With nerves of steel, Warne smashed 34* off 21 balls, guiding his team to a 3-wicket win with just one ball to spare. What shocked everyone? A low-budget RR side, led by a retired spinner, outsmarted a star-studded KKR. It was the first sign that IPL wasn’t just about big names – it was about heart.

Also Read: 5 Historical IPL Matches That Might Shock You

2. CSK vs RCB, 2011 – Hussey’s Heroics

Fast forward to May 28, 2011 – the IPL final at Chennai’s Chepauk Stadium. Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) put up 205/5, powered by Chris Gayle’s explosive 89 off 46 balls. Chasing 206 against a fiery RCB attack seemed impossible, even for MS Dhoni’s Chennai Super Kings (CSK).

Enter Michael Hussey. The Aussie batter, often underrated, played the innings of his life – 81* off 54 balls. With Murali Vijay’s 95 off 52, CSK chased it down with 8 wickets in hand and two overs left. The shock factor? RCB’s massive total crumbled against CSK’s cool-headed chase, proving Dhoni’s team could turn any game around.

3. MI vs RPS, 2017 – A Final for the Ages

The 2017 IPL final on May 21 was a low-scoring thriller that had everyone glued to their screens. Mumbai Indians (MI) managed just 129/8, with Krunal Pandya’s 47 being the only highlight. Rising Pune Supergiant (RPS), led by Steve Smith, needed a cakewalk chase. But MI’s bowlers had other ideas.

Mitchell Johnson and Jasprit Bumrah bowled like warriors, reducing RPS to 123/9. With 11 runs needed off the last over, Washington Sundar faced Johnson – and MI won by 1 run. The shocker? A team that barely scored runs defended it against all odds, giving Rohit Sharma his third IPL title. Pure madness.

Also Read: 5 Historical IPL Matches That Might Shock You

4. KKR vs KXIP, 2014 – Saha’s Final Fireworks

The 2014 IPL final on June 1 was a run-fest that stunned everyone. Kings XI Punjab (KXIP) posted 199/4, thanks to Wriddhiman Saha’s unbeaten 115 off 55 balls – a rare century in an IPL final. Chasing 200, KKR looked down and out at 87/3. Then came Manish Pandey.

The stylish batter smashed 94 off 50, supported by Yusuf Pathan’s quick 36 off 22. KKR won by 3 wickets with three balls left, snatching the title from KXIP’s grasp. The twist? Saha’s heroics were overshadowed, and KKR proved they thrive under pressure. It’s a game I still talk about with friends.

5. GT vs PBKS, 2025 – A Run Riot in Ahmedabad

Let’s talk about something fresh – March 25, 2025, Gujarat Titans (GT) vs Punjab Kings (PBKS). PBKS smashed 243/5, the highest T20 score at Ahmedabad, led by Shreyas Iyer’s 97* off 42 balls. GT responded with 232/5, their highest-ever chase attempt, thanks to Sai Sudharsan’s 74 and Jos Buttler’s 54.

It was a six-hitting fest – GT smashed 16 maximums – but they fell 11 runs short. What shocked me? PBKS’s fearless batting and GT’s near-miracle chase made it a classic. Shreyas Iyer’s decision to let Shashank Singh attack instead of chasing his own hundred was pure captaincy gold.

Also Read: 5 Historical IPL Matches That Might Shock You

Why Do These Matches Matter?

These games aren’t just about stats – they’re about moments that define the IPL. From Warne’s magic in 2008 to Iyer’s brilliance in 2025, each match showed how unpredictable cricket can be. As a fan, I love how the IPL keeps us guessing. Which game shocked you the most? Let me know – I’d love to relive these memories with you.

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As Players with Multiple ICC Champions Trophy Wins. With this achievement, some players have now lifted the Champions Trophy twice in their careers. This rare feat has been accomplished by only a handful of cricketers in the tournament’s history. Let’s take a look at the seven players who have won the ICC Champions Trophy more than once.

Players with Multiple ICC Champions Trophy Wins

7. Ravindra Jadeja (India) – 2013 & 2025

Indian all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja has etched his name in Champions Trophy history. He was part of India’s victorious squad in 2013 and once again played a crucial role in India’s title-winning campaign in 2025.

6. Rohit Sharma (India) – 2013 & 2025

Indian captain Rohit Sharma led his team to victory in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. Before this, he was part of the winning squad in 2013 under the leadership of MS Dhoni. This makes him one of the select few players to have won the tournament twice.

5. Virat Kohli (India) – 2013 & 2025

Virat Kohli, one of the best batsmen in modern cricket, has also secured two Champions Trophy titles. He played a key role in India’s 2013 triumph under MS Dhoni and was again a vital part of the team’s success in 2025 under Rohit Sharma’s captaincy.

4. Brett Lee (Australia) – 2006 & 2009

As per Players with Multiple ICC Champions Trophy Wins, Former Australian fast bowler Brett Lee was known for his blistering pace and ability to take crucial wickets. He played a significant role in Australia’s Champions Trophy victories in both 2006 and 2009.

3. Mike Hussey (Australia) – 2006 & 2009

Australian batting legend Mike Hussey was one of the best finishers in his era. He played a crucial role in Australia’s Champions Trophy-winning campaigns in 2006 and 2009, adding depth to the team’s batting lineup.

2. Shane Watson (Australia) – 2006 & 2009

Shane Watson, one of Australia’s greatest all-rounders, played a major role in their back-to-back Champions Trophy wins in 2006 and 2009. His all-round abilities made him a valuable asset in both tournaments.

1. Ricky Ponting (Australia) – 2006 & 2009

As per Players with Multiple ICC Champions Trophy Wins, Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting holds the record as the only captain to win the Champions Trophy twice. Under his leadership, Australia clinched the title in both 2006 and 2009, further cementing his legacy as one of the greatest captains in cricket history.

Conclusion

As per Players with Multiple ICC Champions Trophy Wins. Winning the ICC Champions Trophy is a huge achievement, and doing it twice is even more special. These seven players have etched their names in history by winning the tournament multiple times. Their contributions played a vital role in their teams’ success, making them legends of the Champions Trophy.

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Top 3 Overseas Fast Bowlers to Watch Out for in IPL 2025

#3. Kagiso Rabada (Gujarat Titans)

South African pacer Kagiso Rabada is a proven match-winner in both international cricket and T20 leagues. Known for his express pace and ability to strike early, Rabada will play a key role for Gujarat Titans this season. With his experience and aggressive bowling style, he can trouble even the best batters. If he finds his rhythm, expect him to be one of the top wicket-takers in IPL 2025.

#2. Mitchell Starc (Delhi Capitals)

Australian speedster Mitchell Starc is making a much-anticipated return to the IPL. After missing the Champions Trophy due to personal reasons, Starc is back and ready to lead the pace attack for Delhi Capitals. His raw pace, deadly yorkers, and ability to swing the ball make him a nightmare for batters. Having delivered impressive performances in the past, Starc will be a crucial asset for Delhi in their quest for IPL glory.

#1. Trent Boult (Mumbai Indians)

New Zealand’s left-arm pacer Trent Boult has been a consistent performer in the IPL over the years. This season, he returns to Mumbai Indians, the team where he previously found great success. Boult’s strength lies in his ability to swing the new ball and pick up early wickets, putting the opposition under pressure right from the start. With his precision and pace, he will be a key player in Mumbai Indians’ bowling attack.

Conclusion

These three overseas fast bowlers – Kagiso Rabada, Mitchell Starc, and Trent Boult – are set to make a big impact in IPL 2025. Their experience, speed, and wicket-taking abilities make them exciting players to watch this season. As the tournament unfolds, fans can expect some thrilling spells and match-winning performances from these pace sensations.

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5 Players Biggest Rivals in IND vs NZ Final: ICC Champions Trophy 2025

1. Rohit Sharma vs Matt Henry

Indian captain Rohit Sharma has struggled for form in the tournament, scoring just 104 runs in four matches with a highest score of 41. However, if he settles in during the first 7-10 overs, he can be a nightmare for the Kiwi bowlers.

New Zealand will look to counter Rohit with their star pacer, Matt Henry. The fast bowler has been in superb form, taking 10 wickets in the tournament, including a five-wicket haul against India on this very ground. However, he suffered a shoulder injury in the semi-final against South Africa. If he is fit, Henry will be a crucial weapon against India’s top order.

2. Virat Kohli vs Mitchell Santner

Virat Kohli has been in outstanding form, scoring 217 runs in the tournament, including a century and an 84-run knock against Australia in the semi-final. With an average of 72.33 and a strike rate of 83.14, Kohli will be eager to make an impact in the final.

New Zealand’s left-arm spinner Mitchell Santner will be key in stopping Kohli. Known for his smart bowling and ability to build pressure, Santner will try to force Kohli into making a mistake. It will be a fascinating contest between the world-class batter and the crafty spinner.

3. Varun Chakravarthy vs Kane Williamson

Kane Williamson has been New Zealand’s most dependable batter, scoring 220 runs in the tournament, including a century and a fifty. Without the burden of captaincy, Williamson has played with freedom, averaging 48 with a strike rate of 86.

India will rely on mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy to stop Williamson. In their earlier clash, Williamson played him well, scoring 81 runs. However, Chakravarthy has a knack for breaking crucial partnerships, and India will hope he can dismiss Williamson early, just as he did against Travis Head in the semi-final.

4. Rachin Ravindra vs Mohammed Shami

Rachin Ravindra had a poor outing against India in the group stage, scoring only six runs. However, he bounced back strongly with a match-winning century (112) against South Africa in the semi-final.

India’s best bet to stop Ravindra is their experienced pacer Mohammed Shami. Shami has taken eight wickets in the tournament, including a brilliant five-wicket haul against Bangladesh. He didn’t get much of a chance to bowl against New Zealand earlier, but his ability to trouble top-order batters makes him a key player in this contest.

5. Tom Latham vs KL Rahul

Both Tom Latham and KL Rahul have played crucial roles for their respective teams in this tournament. Latham has been a pillar in New Zealand’s middle order, scoring 205 runs at a strike rate of 94, with a best score of 118*.

On the other hand, KL Rahul has been India’s finisher, scoring 106 runs at a strike rate of 97. He played a vital role in India’s semi-final win, showing his ability to accelerate when needed. His battle against New Zealand’s bowlers could be crucial in determining India’s chances of lifting the trophy.

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Recently, he achieved another historic milestone by becoming the fastest cricketer to reach 14,000 runs in ODIs. This achievement places him among legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Kumar Sangakkara. Over the years, Kohli has set numerous records, proving himself as one of the greatest ODI batsmen of all time.

Kohli’s Incredible ODI Records

At 36 years old, Kohli holds the record for the most centuries in ODIs, with an astonishing 51 hundreds. Out of these, 31 have come while chasing, proving his dominance in pressure situations. His 50th century, scored against New Zealand during the ICC ODI World Cup 2023, further solidified his status as one of the best in the game.

In over 300 ODIs, Kohli has scored nearly 14,200 runs, including 51 centuries and 74 half-centuries. He has a great record against teams like Sri Lanka, Australia, West Indies, and especially New Zealand. The Black Caps have been one of his favorite opponents, as he has consistently performed well against them.

Virat Kohli vs New Zealand in ODIs: A Special Rivalry

Kohli has a fantastic record against New Zealand, scoring 1,656 runs in 32 matches at an impressive average of 57.10. His highest score against them is 154*, which he achieved in a brilliant run chase in 2016 at Mohali. He has hit 6 centuries and 9 half-centuries against New Zealand, making them one of his most preferred opponents.

Virat Kohli’s ODI Stats vs New Zealand

• Matches: 32
• Runs: 1,656
• Average: 57.10
• Highest Score: 154* (not out) off 134 balls
• Centuries: 6
• Half-centuries: 9
• Sixes: 24
• Fours: 148

Kohli’s Performance in ICC ODI Events vs New Zealand

Kohli’s Last 5 ODI Innings vs New Zealand

• 11 off 9 balls – Raipur (21 January 2023)
• 36 off 27 balls – Indore (24 January 2023)
• 95 off 104 balls – Dharamsala (22 October 2023)
• 117 off 113 balls – Wankhede, Mumbai (15 November 2023)
• 11 off 14 balls – Dubai (DICS) (2 March 2025)

Kohli’s numbers against New Zealand highlight his consistency and dominance. Whether in ICC tournaments or bilateral series, he has continued to be a nightmare for the Black Caps’ bowlers. As he continues to break records, cricket fans eagerly await more memorable performances from the Indian superstar.

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Five Most Beautiful Female Cricketers in 2025

5. Sarah Taylor – England

Sarah Taylor, a former English wicketkeeper-batter, retired from international cricket in 2019. However, her impact on the game remains strong. Known for her incredible skills and elegance, Taylor was one of the best wicketkeepers in women’s cricket. She won multiple ICC T20I and ODI Cricketer of the Year awards and was even nominated for the Player of the Decade award for the 2010s.

At 35, Taylor is now an assistant coach for the Manchester Originals men’s and women’s teams. Although retired, she has not ruled out a return to the field in the future.

4. Harleen Deol – India

Harleen Deol is a talented middle-order batter and one of the most admired cricketers in India. Since making her debut for the national team in February 2019, she has gained a huge fan following for both her skills and beauty.

Her incredible fielding abilities have made her a standout player, and she has been a key member of India’s squad. Currently, Harleen is recovering from an injury she sustained while playing for the Gujarat Giants in the 2024 Women’s Premier League season.

3. Amelia Kerr – New Zealand

Amelia Kerr is one of the best all-rounders in women’s cricket today. The 23-year-old New Zealander has been playing international cricket since she was 16 and has already built an impressive career.

Known for her vibrant personality and natural beauty, Kerr has played over 70 ODIs and an equal number of T20Is, making valuable contributions with both bat and ball. She has also won the hearts of Indian fans while playing in the Women’s Premier League (WPL) for the Mumbai Indians. Across two WPL seasons, she has scored 364 runs at an average of 36.4 and taken 22 wickets in 19 matches, helping MI win the inaugural WPL title in 2023.

2. Kainat Imtiaz – Pakistan

Kainat Imtiaz is considered one of the most beautiful female cricketers in the world. The 32-year-old pace bowler has been part of the Pakistan national team for nearly 14 years, playing at different times throughout her career.

She has a massive fan base, especially in Pakistan and across the Indian subcontinent. Kainat last played professional cricket in January 2023, when she represented Pakistan in an ODI series against Australia.

1. Ellyse Perry – Australia

Ellyse Perry is not just one of the most talented cricketers in history but also one of the most admired sports personalities worldwide. A true all-rounder, Perry has achieved almost everything in women’s cricket, making her a legend of the game.

She was named ICC Women’s ODI and T20I Player of the Decade for the 2010s and has won multiple Big Bash and WPL titles, along with individual awards. At 33, Perry has also won eight World Cups with Australia.

Adding to her incredible achievements, Perry was also a professional footballer, representing Australia in the 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup while balancing her cricket career.

A remarkable athlete, a multiple-time World Cup winner, and one of the most beautiful and skilled players in cricket history – Ellyse Perry truly has it all.

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