Virat Kohli has reclaimed the top spot in ICC ODI batting rankings, prompting a quick fix from the cricket governing body after a miscalculation in his
career stats. Fan outcry on social media highlighted the blunder, leading to an updated record that elevates the Indian star's legacy.
Kohli's explosive 93 off 91 balls sealed India's four-wicket victory over New Zealand in Vadodara, marking his first No. 1 ODI position since July 2021.
Initially, ICC graphics claimed he held the summit for just 825 days, ranking him 10th all-time, but corrections confirmed 1,547 days, third overall and tops among Indians. Only Vivian Richards (2,306 days) and Brian Lara (2,079 days) rank higher.
Social media erupted when fans cross-checked ICC archives, exposing the error and forcing the organization to delete the post and revise its statement. This marks Kohli's 11th stint at No. 1, starting from October 2013, amid a hot streak with five 50+ scores in six recent internationals.
The 37-year-old's purple patch includes centuries against South Africa and in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, plus knocks of 74, 135, 102, and 65 from the Australia series onward. His consistency underscores a resurgence, delighting supporters in Pune and beyond.
The India star has been in excellent form against the Kiwis and will be hoping to continue his merry way in the final ODI on Sunday. This will be Kohli's final match for India in a few months, as the India star has retired from T20I format. Kohli's next assignment for India will be against England in July, and before that, he is expected to feature in the IPL 2026 for Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
