Michael Bracewell lauds Kohli's career ahead of his 300th ODI
What's the story
Indian cricket star Virat Kohli is all set to hit a major career milestone as he gears up for his 300th One Day International (ODI) match. The landmark match will be played against New Zealand in the Champions Trophy league match at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday. Kohli's former teammate and New Zealand all-rounder Michael Bracewell hailed the achievement as "massive."
Admiration
Bracewell commends Kohli's dedication and performance
Bracewell, who played alongside Kohli in the 2023 Indian Premier League (IPL) season for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, praised his commitment and performance. He called Kohli's feat of playing 300 games in a single format "very impressive" and "amazing." Bracewell also emphasized that this milestone is a testament to how Kohli has handled his career.
Recognition
Bracewell acknowledges India's strong lineup
Bracewell acknowledged the strength of the Indian team, stating that they have "great players across the board," with Kohli being one of them. He noted Kohli's impressive record of scoring hundreds in one-day cricket over several years. Despite New Zealand's dominant record against India in ICC tournaments (10-5 including WTC final), Bracewell emphasized that his team would not succumb to pressure based on past records.
Dismissal
Bracewell dismisses claims of India's unfair advantage
Bracewell also dismissed recent claims made on a Sky Sports podcast by Nasser Hussain and Michael Atherton, suggesting India has an unfair advantage. The allegations stemmed from the Indian team benefiting from playing on the same ground and staying in the same city and hotel. Bracewell said, "It is what it is," adding there's no point dwelling on such matters.
Kohli
Kohli owns 14,085 runs from 299 ODI games
With his unbeaten knock (100 off 111 balls) against Pakistan, Kohli has now raced to 14,085 ODI runs at an impressive average of 58.20. He also boasts a strike rate of 93.41, alongside 51 tons and 73 fifties across 299 ODIs (287 innings). Kohli's highest score in ODIs is 183. Kohli has scored 651 runs across 15 Champions Trophy matches at 93 (SR: 90.16). He boasts one ton and five fifties.