Rohit Sharma Dethrones Kohli to Own IPL’s Greatest One-Team Record

Rohit Sharma has etched his name deeper into IPL history by overtaking Virat Kohli’s record for the most runs scored against a single opposition. His blistering 78 off 38 balls against Kolkata Knight Riders in Mumbai Indians’ IPL 2026 opener pushed his cumulative tally against KKR to 1,161 runs across 36 matches, nudging past Kohli’s 1,159 runs against Punjab Kings. Built across stints with both Deccan Chargers and Mumbai Indians, Rohit’s record stands at an impressive average of 40.03 against the same side.

A Chase for the History Books

Mumbai Indians pulled off their highest-ever successful run chase on the same evening, overhauling KKR’s imposing total of 221 with six wickets and five balls to spare. Rohit’s 23-ball half-century combined with Ryan Rickelton’s 81 off 41 balls to forge a devastating 148-run opening partnership. The win also snapped a painful streak — MI had not won an opening fixture since 2012 — and extended their overall head-to-head advantage over KKR to 25–11.

Rohit vs Kohli: The Rivalry That Never Ends

The record reignites the ever-present statistical debate between two of cricket’s biggest names. Kohli commands the lead in overall IPL runs, centuries, and batting average, and remains the only player to cross 1,000 runs against four different franchises. Rohit, meanwhile, boasts six IPL titles and a higher strike rate against select opponents, having now crossed the 1,000-run mark against two teams. Their contrasting strengths — Kohli’s relentless accumulation and Rohit’s match-winning explosiveness — ensure this rivalry remains central to the IPL narrative for years to come.