Virat Kohli reached 28,000 international runs on Sunday during India’s first ODI against New Zealand at the Kotambi International Stadium (BCA) in Vadodara. He became the fastest player to achieve the milestone, getting there in 624 innings. The previous record was held by Sachin Tendulkar, who reached the mark in 644 innings.Kohli entered the series opener needing 25 runs to reach the landmark. Before the match, he had scored 27,975 runs in international cricket from 556 matches and 623 innings, with an average of 52.58. His tally included 84 centuries and 145 half-centuries.Playing his 309th ODI for India, Kohli crossed the 28,000-run mark when he hit New Zealand bowler Adithya Ashok for a boundary off the fifth ball of the 13th over. With that, he also went past Kumar Sangakkara to become the second-highest run-scorer in international cricket.During the mid-innings break, the Baroda Cricket Association honoured Kohli and Rohit Sharma with a special presentation. A cupboard placed near the boundary line, decorated with life-size images of the two players, was revealed to the crowd. As their names were announced, the doors were opened and the players stepped out, drawing laughter and applause. Kohli and Rohit smiled and acknowledged the gesture.The occasion was notable as it marked the first men’s ODI to be played at the Kotambi Stadium. Nearly 35,000 spectators were present. With limited international matches held in Vadodara, the organisers aimed to mark the event by recognising two players who have played a key role in India’s ODI record over the last several years.India opened the three-match ODI series with a four-wicket win over New Zealand in Vadodara, though the chase turned tense after a late collapse. Virat Kohli led the pursuit with 93 off 91 balls, while captain Shubman Gill contributed 56 as India reached 306 for six in 49 overs to chase down the target of 301 against Black Caps.Earlier, New Zealand posted 300 for 8 in their 50 overs, with Daryl Mitchell playing a central role. Mitchell scored 84 off 71 balls, hitting five fours and three sixes, after New Zealand lost momentum following a strong start.Openers Devon Conway and Henry Nicholls added 117 runs for the first wicket. Conway scored 56 off 67 balls with six fours and one six, while Nicholls made 62 off 69 balls with eight fours. After their stand, India struck back through Harshit Rana, whose second spell read 2 overs, no maidens, 13 runs and two wickets.New Zealand slipped from 117 without loss in the 22nd over to 198 for five in the 38th. Mitchell then put together key partnerships to steady the innings. Debutant Kristian Clarke contributed 24 not out off 17 balls, hitting three fours late in the innings.
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