Virat Kohli Hailed as ODI's Best by Glenn Maxwell
Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell has declared Virat Kohli the greatest one-day batter he has ever faced. Maxwell's high praise, given on a recent podcast, highlights Kohli's enduring class even as his influence extends to inspiring teammates and sparking ongoing debates about his place in cricket history.
Glenn Maxwell Calls Kohli the Best in ODI Cricket
Speaking on the 'Keeping it Cricket' podcast, Glenn Maxwell was definitive. "The best I ever saw in one-day cricket, is Kohli," Maxwell said. He pointed to Kohli's exceptional timing and placement, calling his level "ridiculous" and "different." Maxwell's assessment is backed by staggering numbers. Kohli has scored 14,941 runs in 314 ODIs at an average of 58.59, with 54 centuries. His record in successful run-chases is even more remarkable.
Smriti Mandhana Follows Kohli's Footsteps in Asia Cup
Kohli's impact was visually evident in the Women's T20 Asia Cup 2026. On September 3, India's opener Smriti Mandhana smashed a 40-ball half-century against Hong Kong at the Dubai International Stadium. The notable detail was her footwear. Mandhana was seen batting in Kohli's One8 Cover Drive 18 X cricket shoes, a model retailing for around Rs 13,999. Mandhana also shares Kohli's jersey number, 18, making the tribute clear. Her innings of 8 fours and a six helped India to a strong start of 100-1 in 10 overs.
The GOAT Debate: Kohli vs. Tendulkar Continues
Another source indicates the perennial comparison between Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar has been reignited. Following comments from AB de Villiers, a former India cricketer has reportedly weighed in on the 'Greatest of All Time' debate. While the specific content is inaccessible, the recurring discussion itself confirms Kohli's status as a central figure in measuring cricketing greatness across eras.
Kohli's Defining Mindset Revealed in Early Tragedy
A story from his youth continues to define Kohli's professional character. At just 18 years old, his father passed away. Despite this profound personal loss, Kohli reported for his Ranji Trophy match the very next morning. That decision, made in 2006, is often cited as the ultimate demonstration of his singular focus and resilience, traits that have powered his entire career.
- Glenn Maxwell, a world-class contemporary, ranks Virat Kohli as the best ODI batter he has ever seen.
- Smriti Mandhana wore Kohli's One8 brand shoes while scoring a half-century in the Women's Asia Cup on September 3, 2026.
- Kohli's ODI statistics are monumental: 14,941 runs at an average of 58.59 with 54 hundreds.
- His legendary mindset was forged early, playing a first-class match a day after his father's death at age 18.
| Format | Matches | Runs | Average | Centuries |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ODI | 314 | 14,941 | 58.59 | 54 |
| ODI (Successful Chases) | 111 | 6,235 | 89.07 | 24 |