Allan Donald Backs Virat Kohli to Approach Sachin Tendulkar's Century Record

Allan Donald has praised Virat Kohli, stating he is the only player who could approach Sachin Tendulkar's record of 100 international centuries. As Kohli nears 28,000 international runs, he is on the brink of becoming the second-highest run-scorer in cricket history. Donald expressed his admiration for Kohli's relentless drive and shared his thoughts on South Africa's prospects in the upcoming T20 World Cup. This article delves into Kohli's remarkable statistics and Donald's insights on the evolving landscape of cricket.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 11, 2026, 01:54 IST

Kohli's Journey Towards Cricketing Greatness

Paarl [South Africa], January 10: Renowned South African cricketer Allan Donald has expressed his admiration for Indian batting icon Virat Kohli, asserting that Kohli is the only player capable of nearing Sachin Tendulkar's remarkable achievement of 100 international centuries.

As the first ODI against New Zealand approaches this Sunday, Kohli stands just 25 runs shy of becoming the third player to reach 28,000 international runs, joining the ranks of Sachin Tendulkar and former Sri Lankan captain Kumar Sangakkara.

Moreover, Kohli requires an additional 42 runs to surpass Sangakkara's total of 28,016 runs, positioning him to become the second-highest run-scorer in cricket history across all formats.

To date, Kohli has accumulated 27,975 runs over 556 matches and 623 innings, boasting an impressive average of 52.58, complemented by 84 centuries and 145 half-centuries.

In comparison, Sangakkara achieved 28,016 runs in 594 matches and 666 innings, with an average of 46.77, including 63 centuries and 153 fifties.

The all-time leading run-scorer in international cricket remains Tendulkar, who amassed 34,357 runs in 664 matches and 782 innings, averaging 48.25, with 100 centuries and 164 half-centuries to his name.

Kohli is currently 16 centuries away from matching Tendulkar's legendary record of 100 international centuries.

Donald remarked on Kohli's exceptional talent and expressed his longing for Kohli's presence in Test cricket, stating, “If there’s one batter who is going to get close to Sachin Tendulkar, it would be Virat Kohli. I’ve never witnessed a player with such hunger. I have immense respect for him; he is a true machine. I miss him in the Test arena. It feels like he retired too soon, similar to AB de Villiers. However, we will undoubtedly see him excel in white-ball cricket and the 2027 World Cup,” Donald shared with reporters during the ongoing SA20 league.

When discussing South Africa's squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, Donald commented, “It’s going to be an incredible tournament in India. South Africa has assembled a formidable team. There will always be debates about selections, but I believe they are well-prepared.”

He further added, “India offers the finest T20 pitches globally. It’s incredibly challenging for bowlers. I’ve witnessed astonishing performances in the IPL, like scoring 124 in a power play, which is simply extraordinary. I’m relieved to be retired and observe it from a distance. The evolution of batting skills is remarkable. Success will hinge on strategic bowling and careful planning. I hope to see South Africa reach the semi-finals and ideally the finals as well,” he concluded.