The King Reclaims the Throne: Virat Kohli Shatters Decades-Old World Record in List A Cricket
In a display of pure dominance at the BCCI Centre of Excellence, Virat Kohli has officially become the most “efficient” run-scorer in the history of 50-over cricket. During Delhi’s Elite Group D clash against Gujarat, Kohli played a blistering innings of 77 runs off 61 balls, reaching his half-century in just 29 deliveries.
Virat Kohli once again reminded the cricketing world why he is regarded as one of the greatest batsmen of the modern era. The former India captain produced a sensational knock, smashing a half-century off just 29 balls, showcasing his trademark aggression, timing, and intent. The innings was not just impactful in the context of the match but also historic, as Kohli shattered a long-standing Indian batting record in List A cricket.
Breaking the “Untouchable” Record
While Kohli’s 29-ball fifty was a treat for the fans, the real story lies in the career statistics. With this innings, Kohli’s career List A average rose to 57.87, allowing him to surpass the legendary Australian finisher Michael Bevan, whose long-standing record of 57.86 had remained untouched for decades.
In the Indian context, Kohli has also officially moved past Cheteshwar Pujara, who previously held the record for the highest average by an Indian in List A cricket (57.01).
Key Statistics of the Milestone
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Total List A Runs: 16,207
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New Career Average: 57.87
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Innings Taken: 331 (Fastest to 16,000 runs, beating Sachin Tendulkar by 61 innings)
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Match Impact: His 77-run knock, supported by Rishabh Pant’s 70, powered Delhi to a total of 254/9, eventually securing a narrow 7-run victory over Gujarat.
Record-Breaking Achievement in List A Cricket
With this innings, Virat Kohli etched his name deeper into Indian cricket history by becoming the batsman with the highest batting average for India in List A cricket.
Virat Kohli – List A Record
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Matches: 343
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Runs: 16,130
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Average: 57.60
This remarkable consistency across formats and years sets Kohli apart from his peers.
Surpassing Cheteshwar Pujara
Virat Kohli surpassed Cheteshwar Pujara, who previously held the record for the highest List A batting average among Indian batsmen.
Cheteshwar Pujara – List A Record
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Matches: 130
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Runs: 5,759
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Average: 57.01
While Pujara has been synonymous with resilience and red-ball dominance, Kohli’s achievement highlights his extraordinary adaptability and sustained excellence in limited-overs cricket.
A Masterclass in Bengaluru
Kohli looked in “God Mode” from the very first ball. After a quiet start to the season, he followed up his century against Andhra Pradesh with this rapid-fire 77. His 29-ball fifty was peppered with 11 fours and 1 six, proving that even at 37, his reflexes and strike-rotation remain world-class. He was eventually dismissed by left-arm spinner Vishal Jayswal, but not before he had placed Delhi in a commanding position.
The Road to World Cup 2027
This “purple patch”—averaging nearly 150 across his last six 50-over outings—sends a loud message to the selectors and critics. Having already retired from T20Is and Tests, Kohli’s singular focus on the ODI format suggests he is eyeing a final flourish at the 2027 ICC World Cup.
Top 5 Highest Averages in List A Cricket (Min. 5,000 runs)
| Rank | Player | Country | List A Average |
| 1 | Virat Kohli | India | 57.87 |
| 2 | Michael Bevan | Australia | 57.86 |
| 3 | Sam Hain | England | 57.76 |
| 4 | Cheteshwar Pujara | India | 57.01 |
| 5 | Ruturaj Gaikwad | India | 56.68 |
What Makes Kohli’s Record Special?
Several factors elevate this milestone:
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Longevity at the highest level
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Consistency across different phases of his career
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Ability to perform in high-pressure situations
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Seamless transition between formats
Maintaining an average above 57 over more than 340 List A matches is a testament to Kohli’s discipline, fitness, and mental strength.
A Timely Reminder of Kohli’s Greatness
At a time when performances are scrutinized heavily, Kohli’s innings serves as a powerful reminder of his class and hunger for runs. His ability to rise to the occasion and deliver impactful performances continues to inspire teammates and fans alike.
The half-century off 29 balls was not just a personal milestone—it was a statement that Virat Kohli remains a force to be reckoned with in Indian cricket.
Conclusion
Virat Kohli’s blistering 77-run knock and record-breaking List A average underline his status as one of India’s greatest-ever batsmen. By surpassing Cheteshwar Pujara, Kohli has added yet another feather to his already illustrious cap, reaffirming his legacy built on consistency, adaptability, and unmatched hunger for excellence.
