7000 and counting: Rohit Sharma enters Virat Kohli’s exclusive IPL club

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In a high-stakes IPL 2025 Eliminator clash, Mumbai Indians’ stalwart Rohit Sharma added another glittering chapter to his illustrious career. Under the floodlights of the Mullanpur Stadium in Chandigarh, Rohit not only anchored his team to a memorable victory but also walked into a highly exclusive club — one that had only one member until now: Virat Kohli.

Notably, Rohit became just the second batter in IPL history to cross the 7000-run mark, joining Royal Challengers Bengaluru’s Kohli (8618) in this monumental achievement. The Mumbai Indians opener reached the landmark during his impactful half-century against Gujarat Titans, making him a part of an elite group that showcases consistency, longevity, and world-class batting over seasons.

Kohli had long stood alone in this club, having achieved the feat through years of unrelenting excellence. Rohit’s entry, however, signifies not only his individual brilliance but also how he’s continued to remain relevant and effective deep into the tournament’s evolution.

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Rohit’s milestone came during a knock that was as important as it was timely. With Mumbai Indians playing a knockout game (Eliminator), the veteran rose to the occasion, crafting a composed and aggressive half-century that laid the foundation for MI’s match-winning total.

Although Gujarat Titans had their chances — dropping Rohit three times during his innings — the ‘Hitman’ capitalized fully. His stroke play was fluent, his temperament rock-solid, and his intent clear. With wickets falling around him, Rohit held the innings together, ensuring Mumbai stayed in control. His 81-run knock was instrumental in MI marching into Qualifier 2 with renewed confidence. Mumbai will now play against Punjab Kings in the Qualifier 2 and the winner of this game will meet RCB in the IPL 2025 final.

While their styles differ, Rohit and Kohli have walked parallel paths as torchbearers of Indian cricket in the IPL era. Kohli, with his aggressive flair and emotional intensity, has set benchmark after benchmark for RCB. Rohit, with his calm demeanour and ice-cold execution, has led MI to multiple titles. Their rivalry has defined the IPL’s modern era, but it is their mutual respect and unyielding hunger for excellence that sets them apart. Now, with both having crossed 7000 runs in the league, they stand tall not just as run-machines but as icons who’ve helped shape the very identity of the tournament.

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