Virat Kohli Refutes Comparisons with Sachin Tendulkar After Reaching 15,000 ODI Runs

Kohli, who has just surpassed 15,000 ODI runs, dismisses comparisons to the legendary Tendulkar and reiterates his respect for the former master.

By Felo News Desk · Published Mon, 28 Sep 2026 10:56:41 GMT

Virat Kohli, the Indian ODI captain, has publicly dismissed the long‑standing comparisons between him and Sachin Tendulkar after he became the second batter to reach 15,000 runs in the format. The comments came after Kohli’s 139‑ball knock of 139* in a 296‑run chase against the West Indies in Thiruvananthapuram, which marked his 55th ODI century and pushed his career total past the 15,000‑run milestone.

Record‑breaking innings

In the match that saw India chase 296, Kohli scored 139* off 88 balls, including nine sixes – a career high. The innings was his 55th ODI century and added to his 25 centuries in successful chases, the most by any batter in ODI history. The performance was highlighted in a recent Felo News piece titled "Virat Kohli’s 55th ODI Century Highlights His Dominance in Successful Chases".

Statements on Tendulkar

In a statement released through Times Now News, Kohli said: "For me, Sachin paaji is always going to be Sachin paaji. MS Dhoni is always going to be MS Dhoni in terms of being my first captain. These things cannot change inside me. I have never looked at myself as a guy who has established and achieved. You never really get to a position where you say that’s it. I’ve done it," adding that he respects Tendulkar’s unique contribution to cricket. He also noted that he has more ODI hundreds than Tendulkar but that his respect for the former has not diminished.

Context of the comparison debate

The debate over Kohli’s standing relative to Tendulkar has been ongoing for more than a decade. Kohli first addressed the issue in 2017, claiming Tendulkar’s ability level was superior. He has maintained this stance for nine years, despite his own record‑setting performances.

Broader significance

Kohli’s remarks come as he prepares for the 2027 Cricket World Cup, which he has announced will be his final appearance for India. He has already retired from Tests and T20Is, focusing on ODIs, and aims to lead India to victory in the tournament scheduled in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.

Key facts

Kohli became the second batter after Sachin Tendulkar to score 15,000 ODI runs (timesnownews.com)
Kohli’s 139* off 88 balls was his 55th ODI century (timesnownews.com)
The innings added to Kohli’s 25 ODI chase centuries, the most by any batter (timesnownews.com)
Kohli has announced the 2027 World Cup will be his final India appearance (dnaindia.com)
Kohli has retired from Tests and T20Is and is focusing on ODIs (dnaindia.com)

Background

Kohli’s 55th ODI century was highlighted in a Felo News article published on 28 September 2026, noting his record 25 chase centuries. Earlier, on 26 September 2026, Felo reported Kohli’s announcement that the 2027 World Cup would be his final international appearance.