Star player Virat Kohli achieved a significant milestone by becoming the seventh Indian cricketer to participate in 300 One Day Internationals (ODIs) for the national team. This remarkable feat occurred during the ICC Men's Champions Trophy 2025 Group A match against New Zealand at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday. Former Indian captain Sunil Gavaskar emphasized that Kohli's unwavering dedication to his craft distinguishes him and contributes to his greatness.

In a discussion on Star Sports, Gavaskar remarked that Kohli's relentless pursuit of improvement is his most admirable trait. With over 14,000 runs in ODIs, Kohli also holds the record for the highest number of centuries in the 50-over format.

“I believe it is his aspiration to surpass his previous achievements that drives him. He is never content with his accomplishments and consistently seeks to achieve more. The pride he exhibits while representing India is both an honour and a privilege,” Gavaskar stated.

“There are countless individuals who aspire to don the Indian jersey. Whether in a Test match, a 50-over game, or a T20 encounter, representing one’s country is the dream and ambition of every young cricketer. Maintaining that ambition is crucial for Kohli’s desire to excel in every match,” he added.

Unfortunately, Kohli's performance against New Zealand was not up to his usual standards, as he was dismissed for just 11 runs off 14 balls. Glenn Phillips executed a remarkable one-handed catch to send Kohli back to the pavilion, leaving him visibly stunned by the exceptional effort at backward point.

'Look at his commitment on the field'

Gavaskar referred to Kohli as the "chancellor of the Indian cricket university," highlighting his remarkable development over the years and emphasizing that aspiring cricketers should take lessons from him.

“It is not solely about the runs he accumulates. Observe his dedication on the field—his dives, the way he returns the ball to the wicketkeeper or bowler, and his efforts to prevent runs for his team. This unwavering commitment to India is essential. Hence, his transformation from a learner to nearly a professor of cricket is truly impressive," Gavaskar remarked.

"He has transitioned from student to teacher, and if I may add, to the chancellor of the Indian cricket university. For younger players like Shubman Gill and Yashasvi Jaiswal, simply sitting beside him and watching how he prepares offers a significant learning opportunity,” he continued.

Kohli has now become the seventh Indian cricketer, following in the footsteps of Sachin Tendulkar, MS Dhoni, Rahul Dravid, Mohammad Azharuddin, Sourav Ganguly, and Yuvraj Singh, to reach the milestone of 300 ODIs. Recently, the 36-year-old achieved a century against Pakistan in the Champions Trophy.

In the match between India and New Zealand, Mitchell Santner won the toss and chose to bowl first. The victor of this contest will face Australia in the semi-final, while the losing team will encounter South Africa. India will compete in their knockout match in Dubai, whereas New Zealand will head to Lahore for their semi-final.

Read Also: IPL 2025: Franchises Face Hurdles as BCCI Implements New Pre-Season Policies

Get the latest Bollywood entertainment news, trending celebrity news, latest celebrity news, new movie reviews, latest entertainment news, latest Bollywood news, and Bollywood celebrity fashion & style updates!

HOW DID YOU LIKE THIS ARTICLE? CHOOSE YOUR EMOTICON!