‘His legacy will be remembered forever: New Zealand star praises Virat Kohli ahead of his 300th ODI’

New Delhi: Virat Kohli, India's renowned batsman, stunned his critics with a magnificent unbeaten century (100 off 111) against Pakistan in Dubai on February 23. Leading up to the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, Kohli had been facing difficulties in scoring runs, but his exceptional performance in the match showcased why he is considered one of the greatest players in the game.

With this innings, Kohli not only secured his 51st ODI hundred but also became the fastest batter to reach the landmark of 14,000 runs in the format. In doing so, he surpassed cricketing legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Kumar Sangakkara, further solidifying his status among the greats of the game.

A Landmark 300th ODI Appearance
As India prepares to face New Zealand in their final group-stage match on March 2, the game will hold special significance for Kohli. It will mark his 300th ODI appearance, making him just the seventh Indian cricketer to achieve this milestone.

Glenn Phillips Praises Kohli’s Lasting Legacy
Ahead of the much-anticipated clash, New Zealand all-rounder Glenn Phillips showered praise on Kohli, acknowledging his incredible contribution to cricket. Phillips, who shared the dressing room with Kohli at Royal Challengers Bengaluru, emphasized the Indian batter’s impact on the sport and his influence on future generations.

Hard Work and Dedication Define Kohli’s Career
“Virat is an incredibly hard worker, and what he has done for Indian cricket and for youngsters coming through the game is fantastic,” Phillips said. He highlighted how Kohli’s dedication continues to inspire budding cricketers worldwide.

300 ODIs – A Rare Feat in the T20 Era
Phillips also acknowledged that reaching 300 ODIs in modern cricket is a significant feat, considering the shift in focus towards T20 leagues. “One-day cricket isn’t played as frequently as before, so for Kohli to achieve this in today’s age is really special,” he added.

Hope for Kane Williamson’s Return to Peak Form
Shifting the focus to his own team, Phillips expressed confidence that New Zealand captain Kane Williamson would soon find his best form again. “He scored 130*, then 60, and 40-odd recently, so I don’t think he has a problem,” Phillips stated, backing Williamson to make a strong impact in the tournament.

Kohli Eyes More Milestones
With Kohli back in form and on the verge of yet another historic milestone, all eyes will be on him as India takes on New Zealand. Fans will be hoping for another match-winning performance from the Indian stalwart as he continues to script new records in his illustrious career.