Why Virat Kohli Stays Ahead of Rohit Sharma in ODIs, Explained by India Cricket Star

Post by : Saif Nasser

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are two of India’s greatest cricketers in one-day internationals (ODIs). Both have scored huge numbers and played unforgettable innings. Yet, in terms of records and consistency, Virat Kohli continues to lead over Rohit Sharma. Cricket expert Mohammad Kaif recently explained why Kohli stays ahead in the ODI format.

Looking at the statistics, Kohli’s performance stands out. He averages around 59 runs per innings in ODIs, while Rohit Sharma averages about 49. When it comes to centuries, Kohli has scored an incredible 53 hundreds, while Rohit has 33. These numbers show that Kohli not only scores big but does so consistently over a long career.

Kaif emphasized the reason behind this advantage. “Virat Kohli converts starts. A score of 30 or 40 means he will stay till the end, win the match, and if he gets into form, become consistent. That is why, in ODI cricket, Virat Kohli has always been ahead of Rohit Sharma,” he said on his YouTube channel.

The difference between the two players is partly in their mindset and role in the team. Kohli focuses on converting small starts into large innings. He aims to score hundreds regularly and is never satisfied with anything less. Rohit Sharma, as an opener, focuses on giving the team a strong start and setting the stage for a big total. Both approaches are valuable, but Kohli’s ability to play long, match-winning innings gives him the statistical advantage.

Kaif also pointed out Kohli’s determination. “You can see it when Virat Kohli got out in the first ODI; he was shaking his head, thinking he played a wrong shot. He consistently scores runs and plays big innings,” Kaif said. This hunger and attention to every detail make Kohli one of the most reliable and consistent players in ODI cricket history.

Despite their different roles, both Kohli and Rohit have a common goal: winning the 2027 ODI World Cup for India. While Kohli’s consistency keeps him ahead in records, Rohit’s explosive starts as an opener are equally important for the team’s success. Together, they form one of the most formidable partnerships in modern cricket.