Thiruvananthapuram: Virat Kohli produced another landmark performance on Sunday, smashing an unbeaten 139 off 88 balls as India defeated the West Indies by eight wickets in the opening ODI of the three-match series. The victory came after Kohli crossed the 15,000-run mark in ODI cricket and registered his 55th century in the format.
Kohli’s innings featured 10 fours and nine sixes, with the latter marking his highest tally of sixes in a single ODI innings. He reached his century in style and remained unbeaten as India chased down the 296-run target in 41.4 overs, finishing on 300 for two.
The milestone also placed Kohli alongside Sachin Tendulkar as only the second batter to cross 15,000 ODI runs. Kohli reached the landmark in his 315th ODI, adding another significant chapter to his record-filled career.
Kohli found an ideal partner in captain Shubman Gill, who scored 110. The pair put together a 150-run second-wicket partnership after India lost Rohit Sharma for 32, taking the chase firmly under control.
Earlier, West Indies posted 295 for seven after Justin Greaves anchored the innings with a maiden ODI century, scoring 101. John Campbell contributed 62, while Amir Jangoo remained unbeaten on 58. Kuldeep Yadav was India’s leading bowler with four wickets for 40 runs.
The Thiruvananthapuram outing also added to Kohli’s remarkable record at the venue. His unbeaten 139 followed his previous unbeaten 166 against Sri Lanka at the same ground in January 2023, continuing his strong record in the city.
Speaking after the match, Kohli played down the significance of individual milestones and said his focus remained on understanding the situation and doing his job for the team.
“I feel very grateful and very blessed to be in this position, having played for so long,” Kohli said, adding that hard work and staying focused had been central to his journey.
India now lead the three-match ODI series 1-0, with the second match scheduled in Guwahati on September 30.
