King Kohli Rules Again: Virat Tops ICC ODI Rankings

Virat Kohli has climbed back to number one in the ICC ODI batters ranking, replacing Rohit Sharma after a strong run of form. The 37-year-old produced five consecutive fifty-plus scores, easing doubts about retirement that surfaced around the Australia series.

This latest rise marks the 11th time Kohli has reached the top of the ODI batting ratings. The surge follows a period when some reports suggested the Australia matches might be Kohli’s final international games, but recent performances have changed that narrative.

ICC ODI batters ranking and Virat Kohli's latest New Zealand knock

Kohli’s return to the summit came after a key innings of 93 in the first ODI against New Zealand. That effort pushed Kohli from second to first in the ICC ODI batters ranking. The innings underlined Kohli’s control in chases and reinforced confidence within the Indian camp.

The India star has looked secure in the format and appears on course for a place at the 2027 ODI World Cup. For Kohli, the bigger task now is to maintain this level and keep critics quiet, so questions about long-term ODI plans do not reappear.

ICC ODI batters ranking and top-10 list

The latest ICC ODI batters ranking features a strong Indian presence alongside leading names from other countries. Kohli leads the chart, with Daryl Mitchell and Rohit Sharma following behind. The top ten list is shown below in a simple format for clarity.

ICC ODI batters ranking, Rohit Sharma and Daryl Mitchell

Rohit’s slip from first to third in the ICC ODI batters ranking followed a modest 26 in the same New Zealand game. Daryl Mitchell jumped to second place after scoring 84, although New Zealand still lost as India chased down a 301 target in Vadodara.

Mitchell’s 84 highlighted New Zealand’s resistance, but the team fell short despite the platform. India handled the chase with control, which also helped reinforce Kohli’s reputation as a chasemaster and strengthened the country’s grip on several ICC ODI batters ranking spots.

ICC ODI batters ranking context and second ODI toss update

The second ODI brought a fresh tactical call, as New Zealand won the toss and chose to bowl. Shubman Gill said the hosts were keen to bat first anyway and mentioned there was no dew the previous night while India were practising, which influenced the team’s comfort with batting.

The combination of Kohli’s form, India’s successful chase in Vadodara, and New Zealand’s decision at the toss adds extra interest around the ICC ODI batters ranking. With key Indian batters in the top bracket, every innings in this series could shift positions again.