Virat Kohli Becomes World Number One ODI Batter — A Return to the Summit
One of the biggest stories in international cricket this week is Virat Kohli reclaiming the world number one spot in the ICC ODI batting rankings. For fans of Indian cricket — and lovers of the 50-over format globally — this milestone marks the resurgence of one of the game’s most consistent and revered batters.
After several years outside the top position, Kohli has leapt back to the summit, overtaking teammate Rohit Sharma and reaffirming his enduring excellence in One Day Internationals (ODIs).
In this article, we’ll explore how Virat Kohli restored his place at the top of the ODI batting world rankings, what it means for his legacy, and why this achievement matters in the broader cricket landscape.
What Does It Mean to Be World No.1 ODI Batter?
Understanding the ICC ODI Batting Rankings
The International Cricket Council (ICC) rankings are a global rating system that measures player performances in international cricket across formats. In ODIs, batters are rated based on runs scored, match impact, consistency, and strength of opposition. These rankings are updated frequently to reflect recent performances.
Being No.1 in the world means a player has performed better than every other batter in the sport — a rare and significant achievement. When it comes to cricket legends, this status puts Kohli in the company of the all-time greats.
Virat Kohli’s Journey Back to the Top
Early Dominance in ODI Cricket
Virat Kohli first rose to No.1 in the ICC ODI rankings back in October 2013. Over the next several years, he became a mainstay at the top, showcasing remarkable consistency and batting prowess across conditions and opponents.
Between 2017 and 2020, Kohli dominated the ODI rankings — staying at the top longer than most other batters and cementing his status as one of the modern greats.
The Dip and Rivalry for the Top
In April 2021, Pakistan’s Babar Azam displaced Kohli from No.1 after a lengthy run at the summit. Later, in 2025, Rohit Sharma briefly claimed the top spot, pushing Kohli further down the rankings.
During this period, Kohli remained a vital performer for India, even if he wasn’t topping the charts. His hunger and form hinted at a comeback, and with some incredible innings in late 2025 and early 2026, he made that comeback happen.
The Comeback — January 2026
In the First ODI against New Zealand in Vadodara, Kohli delivered a sensational 93-run knock that was instrumental in India’s win. That innings proved decisive, as his performance propelled him ahead in the ICC rankings.
With this performance and a string of other high scores, Kohli amassed enough rating points to move to 785 points, nudging past Daryl Mitchell of New Zealand and Rohit Sharma, who now sits at 775 rating points.
This resurgence returned Virat Kohli to the No.1 ODI batting ranking for the first time since 2021 — a momentous personal and professional triumph.
The Numbers Behind the Achievement
Ranking Breakdown (Latest ICC Update)
According to the most recent official ICC rankings released in January 2026:
| Rank | Player | Country | Rating Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Virat Kohli | India | 785 |
| 2 | Daryl Mitchell | New Zealand | 784 |
| 3 | Rohit Sharma | India | 775 |
| 4 | Ibrahim Zadran | Afghanistan | 764 |
| 5 | Shubman Gill | India | 725 |
| … | Others | — | — |
These figures illustrate just how competitive the ODI batting landscape has become, with Kohli leading by a narrow margin — and yet, underscoring his impact.
Why This Milestone Matters
For Kohli’s Legacy
This latest rise to No.1 adds another extraordinary chapter to Virat Kohli’s career. It’s not just about the ranking itself — it’s about reaffirming elite status in a sport he has shaped for nearly two decades.
Kohli’s ability to stay at the top across career phases — from rising star to veteran stalwart — is rare in world cricket. It shows not just skill, but adaptability and hunger.
For Indian Cricket
Indian cricket has long prided itself on producing world-class batters. Kohli’s return as the top ODI batter continues India’s strong legacy in the 50-over format. In the latest rankings, multiple Indian batters also remain in the top 10, highlighting the depth of talent.
For the Fans
Virat Kohli is more than a cricketer — he’s an icon. For fans around the world, his journey resonates because it shows resilience, passion, and consistency. It also adds excitement to every ODI series, knowing that one of cricket’s most prolific run-makers is still at his absolute best.
What’s Next for Virat Kohli?
Continuing the ODI Success
With the No.1 ranking regained, all eyes will now be on how Kohli continues his form — especially in major series and ICC tournaments. The batting world rankings can shift quickly, but Kohli’s current momentum places him as a key batter to watch in 2026 and beyond.
Breaking More Records
Kohli, already among the highest international run-scorers, continues chasing records in ODIs and other formats. His ongoing excellence in ODI cricket could see him climb further in all-time run-scoring lists and set fresh benchmarks for future generations.
Final Word
Virat Kohli’s rise to become the world number one ODI batter again is a story of triumph, dedication, and unwavering skill. From an early era of dominance to a recent resurgence, Kohli has shown that consistency, craft, and competitive spirit are the hallmarks of great athletes.
For cricket fans everywhere, this moment is not just a ranking update — it’s a celebration of one of the format’s greatest batters returning to the top. And with Kohli’s bat still blazing, the future holds plenty more excitement.
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