Joe Root vs Virat Kohli: Who is Better? ODI, T20, And Test Comparison
When cricket fans think of the greatest batsmen of the modern era, two names come to mind: Virat Kohli and Joe Root. Both batsmen have been consistent match-winners across all formats for their respective countries, India and England. They are part of the famous “Fab Four” alongside Steve Smith and Kane Williamson. In other words, they have dominated world cricket with their technique, temperament, and hunger for runs.
But when we compare Kohli and Root across formats, who stands out? And especially in ODIs and World Cups, where pressure and performance clash? Let’s take a look at the statistics and achievements that define them.
Virat Kohli vs Joe Root in ODI World Cups
Virat Kohli and Joe Root have both been crucial to their teams in the ODI World Cup. Kohli’s consistency and intensity on the big stage are unmatched; Root has been England’s most reliable anchor under pressure.
| World Cup Stats | Virat Kohli | Joe Root |
|---|---|---|
| Matches Played | 31 | 22 |
| Innings | 31 | 21 |
| Runs Scored | 1384 | 933 |
| Highest Score | 107 | 121 |
| Batting Average | 55.36 | 49.10 |
| Strike Rate | 85.65 | 89.02 |
| 100s | 3 | 3 |
| 50s | 9 | 5 |
| 4s | 120 | 81 |
| 6s | 11 | 6 |
| Catches (Fielding) | 19 | 24 |
While Kohli has scored more runs and has a better average, Root also has a better strike rate. This suggests that Root is more adaptable to modern, aggressive ODI cricket. Both have been game-changers in many tight matches. Why? Because both elevate their game in big matches, sometimes making the difference between victory and defeat.
Virat Kohli vs Joe Root in Overall ODI Career
Virat Kohli has carved a niche for himself as a master of chasing targets in the 50-over format. He is also known for his calculated aggression and consistency. Meanwhile, Joe Root is playing the anchor role for England, scoring runs with efficiency and precision.
| ODI Career Stats | Virat Kohli | Joe Root |
|---|---|---|
| Matches Played | 286 | 186 |
| Innings | 274 | 175 |
| Runs Scored | 13,437 | 7,330 |
| Balls Faced | 14,341 | 8,362 |
| Highest Score | 183 | 166* |
| Batting Average | 58.16 | 48.54 |
| Not Outs | 43 | 24 |
| Strike Rate | 93.69 | 87.65 |
| 100s | 48 | 19 |
| 50s | 69 | 43 |
| 4s | 1,255 | 595 |
| 6s | 148 | 53 |
Kohli’s statistics speak for themselves – he is one of the most successful ODI batsmen of all time, second only to Sachin Tendulkar in terms of centuries. His combination of technique, fitness, and mental strength sets him apart. Root, though not as aggressive, remains a pillar for England. His ability to manage innings and adapt to circumstances makes him a true modern great.
Virat Kohli vs Joe Root in Test Cricket
When it comes to Test cricket, Joe Root has the upper hand. His ability to adapt to both fast and spin conditions has made him England’s all-time leading Test run-scorer. Kohli has been impressive both domestically and on the subcontinent. However, Root’s long career and his number of runs in the longer format tilt the balance in his favor.
| Test Stats | Virat Kohli | Joe Root |
|---|---|---|
| Matches Played | 111 | 158 |
| Innings | 187 | 288 |
| Runs Scored | 8,676 | 13,543 |
| Highest Score | 254* | 262 |
| Batting Average | 49.29 | 51.29 |
| Balls Faced | 15,708 | 23,556 |
| Strike Rate | 55.23 | 57.49 |
| Not Outs | 11 | 24 |
| Centuries (100s) | 29 | 39 |
| Half-Centuries (50s) | 29 | 66 |
| Fours | 966 | 1,451 |
| Sixes | 24 | 45 |
Joe Root’s record is remarkable: he surpassed Alastair Cook as England’s leading run-scorer in Tests. Besides being the second-highest Test scorer after Sachin Tendulkar, he also possesses an unmatched ability to play long innings and rescue England from difficult situations.
Virat Kohli vs Joe Root in T20 Internationals
T20 cricket is where Virat Kohli shines as an all-time great. He scores quickly in chases, scores quickly when needed, and performs well under pressure. Ultimately, he became the highest run-scorer in T20I history. Root is technically sound, but he hasn’t played enough T20Is to achieve the same dominance as Kohli.
| T20I Stats | Virat Kohli | Joe Root |
|---|---|---|
| Matches Played | 115 | 32 |
| Innings | 107 | 30 |
| Runs Scored | 4008 | 893 |
| Highest Score | 122* | 90* |
| Batting Average | 52.73 | 35.72 |
| Balls Faced | 2905 | 707 |
| Strike Rate | 137.96 | 126.30 |
| Not Outs | 31 | 5 |
| Centuries | 1 | 0 |
| Half-Centuries | 37 | 5 |
| Fours | 356 | 92 |
| Sixes | 117 | 16 |
Kohli’s T20 International numbers are truly impressive. An average above 50 in the shortest format is rare, and it reflects his consistent performance. Root, although in excellent form, is no longer a regular in England’s T20 team due to England’s aggressive batting lineup.
Virat Kohli vs Joe Root: Playing Styles and Impact
Aggression and intensity fuel Virat Kohli’s passion. His game is based on fitness, precision, and emotional control. He is a master of chasing targets and is perhaps one of the most complete limited-overs cricketers of all time.
Joe Root, who can adapt to any situation, pitch, or bowling attack, is the epitome of grace and patience. And this makes him one of England’s most technically gifted batsmen in recent times.
While Kohli dominates limited-overs cricket, Root is etched in Test history. Both have defined eras for their respective countries and inspired many young cricketers around the world.
Read More: Virat Kohli vs KL Rahul: Who Is Better? Batting & Stats Comparison
Who is Better: Virat Kohli or Joe Root?
This is one of cricket’s most debated questions. Statistically and impact-wise:
- Virat Kohli leads in ODIs and T20Is, being among the top run-scorers of all time.
- The longer format of the game is where Joe Root shines; he is a player who has had a very long, solid career and is immensely reliable.
Both bring different strengths to the table, and their greatness lies in contrasting conditions and formats.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Who has scored more international runs, Virat Kohli or Joe Root?
Virat Kohli, as of 2025, has scored more than 26,000 international runs while Joe Root crossed 20,000. However, Root leads in the number of Test runs, while Kohli leads by a big margin in the limited-overs format.
Q2. Who has more centuries: Kohli or Root?
Virat Kohli has more than 80 international centuries and Joe Root more than 45. Kohli is second in the list of total international centuries, only after Sachin Tendulkar.
Q3. Who has a better average in ODIs: Kohli or Root?
Kohli’s ODI average of about 58 is considerably higher than that of Root’s 48. This consistency across hundreds of matches is what makes Kohli one of the greatest ODI batters in cricket history.
Hello readers! My name is Mouli Gupta, I am a content writer with over 2+ years of experience. I love writing simple and engaging sports content and sharing clear, helpful cricket stories with readers. So did you like my articles? If you have any questions, please comment now. Thanks for reading.
