Virat Kohli's T20 Run Milestone: A Close Race with Shoaib Malik and Chris Gayle In the upcoming IPL 2026 match between Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), Virat Kohli is on the brink of a historic milestone. Currently, Kohli holds the 7th position in the list of T20 International (T20I) players with the most runs. However, he trails Shoaib Malik by just 28 runs. If Kohli scores 29 runs in this match, he will surpass Malik to become the highest run-scorer among Asian players in T20I history. The Gap and the Target Shoaib Malik: 14,562 runs (as of the latest data). Virat Kohli: 14,534 runs (needs 29 more to overtake Malik). This narrow gap highlights the intensity of the competition and Kohli's determination to secure his place in the record books. The Broader Context: Chris Gayle's Record The ultimate goal for Kohli is to challenge Chris Gayle's record of 14,562 runs in T20Is. Gayle, a West Indies legend, holds the world record for the most runs in T20Is, with 22 centuries to his name. Kohli, who has retired from international T20 cricket, relies on the IPL as his primary platform to chase this milestone. Key Takeaways Kohli's IPL 2026 Opportunity: The RCB vs SRH match is a critical chance for Kohli to close the gap with Malik and inch closer to Gayle's record. Asian Dominance in T20I: If successful, Kohli would solidify Asia's dominance in T20 cricket, joining a list of elite players like Gayle and Malik. IPL as a Crucible: For Kohli, the IPL remains the sole avenue to compete with global legends like Gayle, as he has stepped away from international T20 cricket. This match could mark a pivotal moment in Kohli's career, blending personal ambition with the legacy of T20 cricket's greatest performers. 🏏#virat_kohli #royal_challengers_bengaluru #chris_gayle #sunrisers_hyderabad #shoaib_malik
Chris Gayle To Phil Salt: 10 Best Replacement Players In IPL History The 2026 edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL) is set to begin on March 28, with the reigning champions Rajasthan Royals facing the 2024 losing finalists Sunrisers Hyderabad at M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. However, several teams have faced challenges due to injuries, prompting the need for replacement players. Over the past 18 seasons, numerous injury-replacement signings have made significant impacts, and this year’s edition is expected to see more standout performers. Here’s a look at the top 10 replacement players in IPL history. Chris Gayle was signed by Rajasthan Royals as a replacement for Dirk Nannes in 2011. The West Indies star delivered a stellar performance, scoring 608 runs in 12 matches to win the Orange Cap. His explosive batting helped RCB establish themselves as a formidable force in the tournament. In 2024, Kolkata Knight Riders brought in Phil Salt as a replacement for Jason Roy. The English wicketkeeper-batter played a crucial role in KKR’s title victory, accumulating 435 runs in 12 matches. His consistency and ability to anchor the innings proved vital for the team’s success. South African fast bowler Anrich Nortje joined Delhi Capitals as a replacement for Chris Woakes ahead of IPL 2020. He took 22 wickets in 16 matches, guiding DC to their first-ever final appearance. His pace and accuracy made him a key asset for the franchise. Sandeep Sharma was signed by Rajasthan Royals as an injury replacement for Prasidh Krishna in IPL 2023. The Indian fast bowler impressed with 10 wickets in 12 matches, contributing significantly to the team’s performance. His ability to take wickets at critical moments earned him recognition. Jake Fraser-McGurk joined Delhi Capitals as a replacement for Lungi Ngidi in 2024.#chris_gayle #anrich_nortje #phil_salt #sandeep_sharma #jake_fraser_mcgruk
Sanju Samson: A Stellar Performance in the T20 World Cup Sanju Samson emerged as India's standout performer in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2021, cementing his legacy as one of the tournament's greatest batsmen. Here's a breakdown of his achievements and impact: Key Stats & Milestones Top Scorer: Samson amassed 358 runs in 7 matches, becoming the highest run-scorer in the tournament. Average & Strike Rate: His average of over 50 and a strike rate of 168 highlight his aggressive, boundary-driven style. Record-Breaking Feat: He became the first player to score 350+ runs in a T20 World Cup, surpassing legends like Chris Gayle and Kumar Sangakkara. Crucial Match Contributions Semi-Final vs England (2021): Scored 89 off 46 balls, leading India to a thrilling 167/6. Named Player of the Match and ESPNcricinfo's Impact Index MVP for his explosive innings. His 10 fours and 3 sixes were pivotal in securing a semi-final spot. Final vs New Zealand: Contributed 46 runs off 28 balls, anchoring India's 156/5 and setting up a dramatic final. Team Impact & Partnerships Ishan Kishan's Praise: Kishan, India's second-highest scorer (262 runs), credited Samson for his "aggressive batting" and how it eased his own pressure. Aggressive Batting Strategy: Samson's fearless approach revitalized India's attack, with his partnership with Kishan (119 runs) forming the backbone of their success. Recognition & Legacy Awards: Won Player of the Match for the semi-final and ESPNcricinfo's MVP for his tournament-wide impact. Historical Significance: His 358 runs and 50+ average place him among the all-time greats in T20 cricket, with comparisons to icons like Gayle and Chris Gayle.#ishan_kishan #sanju_samson #icc_men_s_t20_world_cup_2021 #chris_gayle #kumar_sangakkara
