Kohli's 11th Reign: How His Current No.1 Stint Compares to Previous ICC Dominance Eras
Virat Kohli has scripted history again by reclaiming the ICC No.1 ODI batting ranking after four years - his record 11th time atop cricket's summit. This 2023 comeback at age 34 defies conventional career curves, making it statistically distinct from his previous dominant eras. Here's how all 11 reigns compare:
1. The First Conquest (October 2013)
Kohli first claimed the top spot aged 24 after stellar performances against Australia. He became India's longest-reigning No.1 batter during this breakthrough phase that announced his arrival as cricket's next superstar.
2. The Record-Shattering Streak (2014-2015)
During his second reign, Kohli piled up centuries like clockwork. His 825 cumulative days at No.1 during this period established him as India's most dominant ODI batter since Sachin Tendulkar.
3. The Captaincy Boost (2016)
Newly appointed as India's limited-overs captain, Kohli's leadership responsibilities fueled his batting. This reign saw him develop the knack for match-winning knocks under pressure.
4. The Peak Performer Era (2017)
At 28, Kohli reached his physical prime - evident in his relentless running between wickets and conversion rate (50s to 100s). This period cemented his reputation as cricket's most complete ODI batter.
5. The Unchallenged King (2018)
Kohli's longest continuous stay at No.1 featured a historic South Africa series where he outscored the entire Proteas team. His average hovered near 75 during this phase.
6. The World Cup Build-Up (Early 2019)
In the lead-up to the 2019 World Cup, Kohli's consistency helped India enter as favorites. His last No.1 reign before the current comeback ended in April 2019.
7. The Brief Reclamation (Late 2019)
A short-lived return to the top showed Kohli's ability to regain form quickly. This stint highlighted his mental strength after temporary dips.
8. The Pandemic Interruption (2020)
Cricket's COVID-19 break affected Kohli's rhythm. His shortest reign featured fewer matches but maintained his elite standards.
9. The Final Pre-Drought Phase (April 2021)
Before his unexpected form slump, Kohli held the No.1 ranking for 1,258 days across various reigns - the fourth-longest in history.
10. The Comeback Trail (2022-2023)
After dropping out of the top 5 in 2022, Kohli rebuilt his game. Crucial knocks against Sri Lanka and Australia signaled his resurgence before the South Africa series.
11. The Historic 2023 Return
Kohli's current reign makes history for three reasons:
- Age-Defying Achievement: At 34, he's the oldest batter to reclaim No.1 after 4+ years
- World Cup Context: Comes months before hosting ICC Cricket World Cup 2023
- Statistical Rarity: First player with 11 separate stints at No.1 in any format
What Makes This Reign Different?
Unlike his early dominant phases where Kohli averaged 90+ in successful chases, his 2023 comeback relies on refined shot selection and emotional maturity. The back-to-back match-winning performances against South Africa (including a sublime 93) showcase a batter who's evolved his game for cricket's modern demands.
The Kohli Effect: By The Numbers
- 11 - Times topped ICC ODI rankings (most by any player)
- 1,258 - Consecutive days as No.1 during peak (2017-2019)
- 4 - Years between his 10th and 11th reign (longest gap)
- 34 - Age during current No.1 stint (oldest since Sachin Tendulkar)
Road Ahead: Can Kohli Extend This Reign?
With the Asia Cup and World Cup approaching, Kohli has the perfect stage to cement this late-career resurgence. His ability to maintain No.1 against rising stars like Babar Azam and Shubman Gill could define his legacy.
As Kohli prepares for what might be his final World Cup, this 11th reign at the summit represents more than personal glory - it's a testament to reinvention in professional sport's toughest arena.
