Kohli Eyes Historic Milestone in 2026 Opener, Set to Surpass Sangakkara

• Virat Kohli needs just 42 runs in the first ODI against New Zealand on January 11, 2026, to achieve a significant international cricket record.
• He is set to surpass Kumar Sangakkara's 28,016 runs, becoming the second-highest run-scorer in international cricket.
• Kohli will also become only the second Indian and third overall batsman to cross the 28,000-run mark in international cricket.
• Sachin Tendulkar holds the world record with 34,357 runs; Kohli currently has 27,975 runs.
• Kohli is in superb form, having dominated the recent Vijay Hazare Trophy with a century and a 77-run innings.

Why It Matters: Virat Kohli is on the verge of a major international batting record, set to become the second-highest scorer.