As India prepares to launch their campaign in the 2023 Asia Cup against arch-rivals Pakistan, there’s more than just the trophy at stake. Several personal milestones are within reach for players, providing additional intrigue to the tournament. With up to six potential matches on the horizon, individual achievements could significantly boost players’ statistics. Here are some milestones to watch for ahead of India’s clash with Pakistan:
Rohit Sharma (10,000 ODI Runs): The next few months are critical for Rohit’s legacy as a captain. A mere 163 runs away from reaching 10,000 ODI runs, he seeks to join the elite club of Indian cricketers to achieve this milestone. Rohit’s illustrious career boasts 9,837 runs in 244 matches at an average of 48.69, featuring 30 centuries and 48 fifties.
Virat Kohli (13,000 ODI Runs, 26,000 International Runs): The record-breaking Virat Kohli is on the cusp of two major milestones. Just 102 runs shy of 13,000 ODI runs, he aims to become the second Indian to achieve this feat. Additionally, he is 418 runs away from reaching 26,000 international runs, closing in on Sachin Tendulkar’s record of 34,357. Kohli’s current stats stand at 12,898 ODI runs in 275 matches at an average of 57.32, with 46 centuries, while in the international arena, he has 25,582 runs in 501 matches at an average of 53.63, accompanied by 76 centuries.
Shubman Gill (2,000 ODI Runs, 3,000 International Runs): Emerging talent Shubman Gill is rapidly making his mark in international cricket, particularly in ODIs. He approaches the milestone of 2,000 ODI runs, needing 563 more runs to reach it. Gill’s current ODI record consists of 1,437 runs in 27 matches at an impressive average of 62.47, featuring four centuries.
Shreyas Iyer (2,000 ODI Runs): Shreyas Iyer’s consistency in the number-four position makes him a vital asset for India. With just 369 runs needed, he is poised to reach 2,000 ODI runs. Iyer’s track record includes 1,631 runs in 42 matches at an average of 46.60, with two centuries.
KL Rahul (2,000 ODI Runs, 7,000 International Runs): KL Rahul, India’s designated number-five batter, is closing in on two milestones. He requires just 14 runs to reach 2,000 ODI runs and 107 runs to complete 7,000 international runs. Rahul’s ODI stats stand at 1,986 runs in 54 matches at an average of 45.13, with five centuries, while his international record includes 6,893 runs in 173 matches.
Ravindra Jadeja (6,000 International Runs): India’s premier all-rounder, Ravindra Jadeja, is poised to cross the 6,000-run mark in international cricket, requiring just 179 runs. His international record currently comprises 5,821 runs in 308 matches at an average of 33.45, including three centuries.
Axar Patel (150 International Wickets): The versatile Axar Patel is on the verge of claiming his 150th international wicket, with just three more needed. Presently, he boasts 147 wickets in 109 matches, spanning Tests, ODIs, and T20Is.
Kuldeep Yadav (150 ODI Wickets, 250 International Wickets): Kuldeep Yadav, the talented spinner, is closing in on two significant milestones. He requires nine more wickets to reach 150 ODI wickets and 23 or more wickets in the Asia Cup to attain the 250-wicket mark in international cricket.
The stage is set for these Indian cricketers to etch their names into the annals of cricketing history as they embark on their Asia Cup journey.