Virat Kohli has achieved another milestone in ICC Champions Trophy 2025. In India’s opening match against Bangladesh, Kohli equaled the record for the most outfield catches by an Indian in ODI cricket. This achievement places him among the top three fielders in ODI history.
Kohli’s Milestone in Numbers
- 156 catches in ODIs, equaling Mohammad Azharuddin’s record for India.
- Ranked third in the all-time list of ODI outfield catches.
- Mahela Jayawardene leads with 218 catches, followed by Ricky Ponting with 160.
How Kohli Achieved This Record
Bangladesh won the toss and chose to bat first. In the second over, Kohli took his 155th catch, dismissing Najmul Hossain Shanto at cover. Later, in the 43rd over, he took another crucial catch at long-on, equaling Azharuddin’s record.
ODI Outfield Catch Leaders
| Player | Team | Matches | Catches |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mahela Jayawardene | Asia/SL | 448 | 218 |
| Ricky Ponting | AUS/ICC | 375 | 160 |
| Mohammad Azharuddin | IND | 334 | 156 |
| Virat Kohli | IND | 298* | 156 |
| Ross Taylor | NZ | 236 | 142 |
| Sachin Tendulkar | IND | 463 | 140 |
| Stephen Fleming | ICC/NZ | 280 | 133 |
| Jacques Kallis | Afr/ICC/SA | 328 | 131 |
| Muthiah Muralidaran | Asia/ICC/SL | 350 | 130 |
| Younis Khan | PAK | 265 | 130 |
Impact on Team India
Kohli’s ability to take crucial catches strengthens India’s fielding unit. His presence in the outfield ensures tighter defense, which will be key in ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
India’s Performance in the Match
- Mohammed Shami removed Soumya Sarkar in the first over.
- Harshit Rana dismissed Shanto, leading to Kohli’s record-equalling catch.
- India restricted Bangladesh to 228 runs in 49.4 overs, despite a dropped catch by Rohit Sharma.
Kohli’s Next Goal: Surpassing Ponting
Kohli is now in a strong position to overtake Ricky Ponting (160 catches). With his current form, he could even challenge Jayawardene’s record in the near future.