Virat Kohli sets new ODI catch record, overtakes Ricky Ponting in Dubai semi-final

Dubai: India's cricket stalwart, Virat Kohli, continued to extend his remarkable record in the field, surpassing Australia legend Ricky Ponting’s record for the most catches taken by a fielder in One Day Internationals (ODIs).

Kohli achieved this milestone during the high-stakes Champions Trophy semi-final between India and Australia in Dubai on Wednesday. The 36-year-old showcased his athleticism by successfully completing two catches as Australia were bowled out for a modest 264 runs.

With 161 catches in 301 matches, Kohli now holds the second-highest tally for catches in ODIs, trailing only Sri Lanka's Mahela Jayawardene, who leads with 218 catches. Ponting, who had previously held the record with 160 catches, now occupies third place, while former India captain Mohammad Azharuddin sits fourth with 156 catches.

Kohli equalled Ponting's record when he caught Josh Inglis, who holed out to him. He then claimed the record-breaking catch on the final delivery of the 49th over, when Nathan Ellis attempted a big hit but mis-timed the ball. Kohli took a couple of steps to his right and completed the comfortable catch, securing his place in ODI history.

Australia's innings had been powered by blistering fifties from Steve Smith (73) and Alex Carey (61). However, Mohammed Shami played a pivotal role in curbing Australia's momentum, taking 3/48, while mystery spinner Varun Chakravarthy (2/49) and Ravindra Jadeja (2/40) also helped dismantle the Australian batting line-up. Axar Patel and Hardik Pandya each took a wicket to support India’s dominant performance in the field.