Virat Kohli vs Sachin Tendulkar: Who is the Better ODI Run-Chase King?
Virat Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar are two of India’s greatest cricket legends. Kohli recently became only the second player in history to score 8,000+ runs in ODI run chases, joining Tendulkar in this elite club. But how do their stats compare? Let’s analyze their performances and see who stands out.
- Virat Kohli has a higher batting average and strike rate than Sachin Tendulkar in ODI run chases.
- Tendulkar played in tougher conditions, making his records significant.
- Kohli’s finishing ability gives him an edge in modern cricket.
Sachin Tendulkar’s Performance in Run Chases
Sachin Tendulkar played a key role in India’s ODI run chases for over 20 years. He featured in 236 matches, scoring 8,720 runs at an average of 42.33. His highest score in a chase was 175 against Australia.
Sachin Tendulkar’s Run-Chase Stats in ODIs:
| Runs | Matches | Innings | Not Outs | Highest Score | Average | Balls Faced | Strike Rate | 100s | 50s | Ducks |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8,720 | 236 | 232 | 26 | 175 | 42.33 | 9,859 | 88.44 | 17 | 52 | 15 |
Virat Kohli’s Performance in Run Chases
Virat Kohli is known as one of the best chasers in cricket history. He has a higher average (64.50) and a better strike rate (93.24) than Tendulkar. His ability to stay not out (34 times) shows he often finishes matches successfully.
Virat Kohli’s Run-Chase Stats in ODIs:
| Runs | Matches | Innings | Not Outs | Highest Score | Average | Balls Faced | Strike Rate | 100s | 50s | Ducks |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8,063 | 166 | 159 | 34 | 183 | 64.50 | 8,647 | 93.24 | 28 | 41 | 4 |
Who is Better at Chasing in ODIs?
Both players have exceptional records in run chases, but their approaches differ:
- Kohli’s higher average (64.50 vs. 42.33) and better strike rate (93.24 vs. 88.44) make him statistically superior.
- Tendulkar played in an era of tougher bowling attacks, making his numbers equally impressive.
- Kohli has scored more centuries (28 vs. 17) in fewer matches.
While Kohli’s stats in run chases are unmatched, Tendulkar’s longevity and consistency make him legendary. Both have been match-winners for India, shaping the country’s cricketing success across generations.
Interesting Facts
- Virat Kohli has the most centuries in successful ODI run chases.
- Sachin Tendulkar played in five different decades (1989-2013).
- Kohli’s highest run chase score (183) came against Pakistan in 2012.
Kohli’s numbers in ODI chases are superior, but Tendulkar’s contributions remain invaluable. Who is the best? It depends on how you define greatness!
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