Can These 3 Indian Stars Shatter Virat Kohli’s 973-Run IPL Record in 2025?

Virat Kohli may not have won an IPL title yet, but the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) stalwart holds one of the most remarkable records in the league’s history—the most runs scored in a single IPL season. In 2016, Kohli amassed a staggering 973 runs, leading RCB to the finals, though they fell short of the title. Eight seasons have passed since then, and despite the evolution of batting in the IPL, no one has come close to breaking this monumental record.

However, with the game becoming more batter-friendly, a few Indian players are emerging as strong contenders to surpass Kohli’s feat in IPL 2025. Here are three potential candidates who could rewrite history:

1) Shubman Gill
Shubman Gill announced himself as a force to reckon with in IPL 2023. Playing for Gujarat Titans, Gill was instrumental in his team’s journey to the finals, scoring 890 runs in 17 matches, including three centuries and four fifties. His strike rate of 157.80 showcased his ability to dominate bowlers while maintaining consistency. Gill came tantalizingly close to Kohli’s record, falling just 83 runs short. Known for his marathon knocks and impeccable timing, Gill, as an opener, has the perfect platform to break Kohli’s record. With his growing maturity and hunger for big scores, he is a top contender to achieve the milestone.

2) Yashasvi Jaiswal
Yashasvi Jaiswal has rapidly risen through the ranks to become one of the most exciting young talents in Indian cricket. The Rajasthan Royals opener had a breakout season in IPL 2023, smashing 625 runs in just 14 matches at a strike rate of 163.61. His aggressive yet composed batting style, coupled with his ability to score centuries, makes him a strong candidate to challenge Kohli’s record. Jaiswal’s improvement over the last two seasons has been remarkable, and as an opener, he has the advantage of facing the maximum number of balls. If he continues his upward trajectory, he could very well surpass Kohli’s 973-run mark.

3) Abhishek Sharma
Abhishek Sharma is the dark horse in this race. The Sunrisers Hyderabad opener had a breakthrough season in IPL 2024, forming a devastating partnership with Travis Head at the top of the order. In 16 matches, Sharma scored 484 runs at an astonishing strike rate of 204.22, including three fifties. His fearless approach and ability to hit boundaries at will make him a unique contender. While he hasn’t yet reached the consistency of Gill or Jaiswal, his explosive style and clear game plan—see the ball, hit the ball—could propel him to a record-breaking season. If he maintains his form and gets a bit of luck, Sharma could surprise everyone by eclipsing Kohli’s record.