Kohli & Rohit Chase History: 42 Runs & 16,000 ODI Milestones in New Zealand Series

Kohli & Rohit Chase History: 42 Runs & 16,000 ODI Milestones in New Zealand Series

As India’s 2026 cricket season kicks off, all eyes are on two modern legends—Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma—who stand on the verge of rewriting record books in the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand. Starting January 11 in Vadodara, the three-match series isn’t just about a fresh year; it’s about legacy, numbers, and a historic push by the iconic “Ro-Ko” duo.

Both veterans last played in India’s ODI win against South Africa and tuned up with runs in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Now, with New Zealand in their sights, a parade of milestones awaits.

Kohli’s Hunt: Passing Sangakkara, Chasing Tendulkar

Virat Kohli enters the series just 42 runs away from becoming the second-highest run-scorer in international cricket, surpassing Sri Lankan great Kumar Sangakkara. With 27,975 international runs, Kohli sits behind only Sangakkara and the legendary Sachin Tendulkar.

But that’s just one of several records within reach:

- 25 runs would make him the fastest to 28,000 international runs, beating Tendulkar’s 644-inning mark (Kohli is at 623 innings).

- 94 runs will make him India’s highest ODI run-scorer against New Zealand.

- 227 runs could see him become the highest run-scorer at No. 3 in ODI history.

“Kohli’s consistency in ODI cricket is surreal,” notes cricket analyst Rohan Mehta. “Every series now is a tribute to his endurance and class. Passing Sangakkara will be another jewel in his crown.”

Rohit Sharma: Opening Greatness and Sixes Record

At the other end, captain Rohit Sharma is chasing his own set of monumental feats:

- He is 67 runs away from completing 16,000 runs as an opener in international cricket.

- One more century will give him the most centuries by an opener (46), breaking the tie with Sachin Tendulkar.

- He needs 224 runs to overtake Inzamam-ul-Haq as the seventh-highest ODI run-scorer of all time.

And let’s not forget the sixes—Rohit is two sixes away from having the most sixes as an opener in ODIs, and seven away from being the leading six-hitter against New Zealand in internationals.

Why This Series Matters Now

In a cricket calendar packed with franchise leagues, this ODI series brings a refreshing focus back to national colors and historic benchmarks. For fans, 2026 begins with the rare chance to witness two active legends simultaneously chasing career-defining numbers.

“These aren’t just personal milestones,” says former India coach WV Raman. “They are markers of excellence that inspire the next generation. Every run Kohli and Rohit score now etches their names deeper into cricket’s folklore.”

What to Watch in Vadodara

When India takes the field at Kotambi Stadium, history will be in motion. Can Kohli get those 42 runs in the first match itself? Will Rohit begin his march toward 16,000? With both in good touch, the New Zealand bowlers will have their hands full.