Virat Kohli Equals Azharuddin’s Record for Most Catches as an Indian Fielder in ODIs

Virat Kohli has added another milestone to his illustrious career by equaling Mohammad Azharuddin’s record for the most catches as a fielder for India in ODIs. Kohli achieved this feat during India’s ICC Champions Trophy 2025 opener against Bangladesh in Dubai on Thursday, taking two catches to reach a tally of 156 in the format. He now shares the record with Azharuddin, who reached the same mark in 334 matches, while Kohli accomplished it in just 298 games—36 matches fewer than the former captain.

With just one more catch, Kohli will surpass Azharuddin to become India’s all-time leading fielder in terms of ODI catches. Following them on the list is Sachin Tendulkar with 140 catches, Rahul Dravid with 124, and Suresh Raina with 102.

Kohli’s first catch of the match came early in Bangladesh’s innings. On the fourth ball of the second over, Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto attempted a cover drive off Harshit Rana’s delivery but failed to keep the ball grounded. Positioned at a shortish cover point, Kohli leaped into the air and completed the catch with both hands.

His second catch came much later in the 43rd over. This time, Mohammed Shami bowled a wider delivery that tempted Jaker Ali to go for a big shot. However, Jaker mistimed his stroke, sending the ball high into the air. Kohli, keeping his eyes locked on the ball, took a clean catch to officially match Azharuddin’s long-standing record.

The match also saw Shami etching his name in the history books by becoming the fastest bowler to reach 200 ODI wickets in terms of balls bowled. Delivering a brilliant spell, he claimed 5/53 in 10 overs, dismissing Soumya Sarkar, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Jaker Ali, Tanzim Hasan Sakib, and Taskin Ahmed.