One Day Internationals (ODIs) have witnessed some of the most legendary batting performances in cricket history. Watching a batsman dominate and score big runs is always a thrilling experience. Over the years, several cricketers have broken records, achieving some of the highest individual ODI scores. In this article, we will explore the top 10 ODI scores ever recorded and how these incredible innings changed the game.
Top 10 Highest Individual Scores in ODI Cricket
1. Rohit Sharma – 264 vs Sri Lanka (2014)
Rohit Sharma holds the record for the highest individual ODI score with a stunning 264 against Sri Lanka at Eden Gardens. Facing 173 balls, he smashed 33 fours and 9 sixes, leading India to a total of 404/5. His innings remains one of the best ODI batting performances ever.
2. Martin Guptill – 237 vs West Indies (2015)*
During the 2015 Cricket World Cup, Martin Guptill played an unforgettable knock of 237* against West Indies. His innings included 24 fours and 11 sixes, making it the highest score in a World Cup match. Fans still search for his 237 full highlights* to relive the magical innings.
3. Virender Sehwag – 219 vs West Indies (2011)
Known for his fearless batting, Virender Sehwag became the second player to score an ODI double century with 219 runs against West Indies in 2011. His aggressive approach helped India post a massive 418/5, setting an unbeatable total.
4. Chris Gayle – 215 vs Zimbabwe (2015)
Chris Gayle brought his T20 power-hitting into ODIs with an explosive 215 against Zimbabwe in the 2015 World Cup. He hit 16 sixes and 10 fours, proving why he is one of the best ODI batsmen in history. Fans often look for Chris Gayle’s 215 full match highlights to witness his dominance.
5. Fakhar Zaman – 210 vs Zimbabwe (2018)*
Fakhar Zaman became the first Pakistani player to score a double century in ODIs with an unbeaten 210 against Zimbabwe in 2018. His innings helped Pakistan register their highest-ever ODI total of 399/1.
6. Rohit Sharma – 209 vs Australia (2013)
Rohit Sharma’s first double century came against Australia in 2013. His 209-run knock, which included a record 16 sixes, was a masterclass in controlled aggression. His consistency has earned him the record for most double centuries in ODIs.
7. Rohit Sharma – 208 vs Sri Lanka (2017)*
Rohit Sharma’s love for double centuries continued in 2017 when he scored 208* against Sri Lanka. His ability to accelerate in the final overs makes him one of the top cricket records in ODIs.
8. Sachin Tendulkar – 200 vs South Africa (2010)*
Sachin Tendulkar became the first player to score a double century in ODIs, achieving the historic milestone against South Africa in 2010. His innings paved the way for future players to push the limits of ODI batting.
9. Charles Coventry – 194 vs Bangladesh (2009)*
Zimbabwe’s Charles Coventry played an underrated yet brilliant innings of 194* against Bangladesh in 2009. Despite his efforts, Zimbabwe lost the match, but his record still stands as one of the longest innings played in ODI cricket.
10. Saeed Anwar – 194 vs India (1997)
Before double centuries became common, Saeed Anwar’s 194 against India in 1997 was the highest ODI score for over a decade. His elegant stroke play and dominance over Indian bowlers made this innings legendary.
Evolution of ODI Batting
Rise of Big Scores
- Modern ODI batting techniques have allowed batsmen to push past traditional limits, frequently scoring 300+ totals.
- The influence of T20 cricket has changed the approach to ODIs, encouraging more aggressive and fearless batting.
- The demand for most sixes in an ODI innings has increased, making power-hitting an essential skill.
Role of Technology and Equipment
- Improved cricket bats and protective gear enable players to take more risks.
- Advanced video analysis helps in understanding bowler strategies.
- Access to records, like the latest ODI batting records ICC, allows players to set new benchmarks.
Conclusion
The highest individual ODI scores showcase the evolution of batting in cricket. From Sachin Tendulkar’s first double century to Rohit Sharma’s multiple 200+ scores, these innings have redefined ODI cricket. As the game continues to evolve, cricket fans eagerly await the next record-breaking knock.
FAQs
Q1. Who was the first player to score a double century in ODIs?
Ans. Sachin Tendulkar was the first cricketer to score a double century in ODIs, achieving this milestone against South Africa in 2010.
Q2. How many times has Rohit Sharma scored a double century in ODIs?
Ans. Rohit Sharma has scored three double centuries in ODIs, the most by any player.
Q3. What is the highest score in a World Cup match?
Ans. Martin Guptill’s 237 against West Indies* in the 2015 World Cup remains the highest individual score in a World Cup match.
Q4. Which country has the most players with 200+ scores in ODIs?
Ans. India has the most players who have scored double centuries in ODIs, including Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag, and Rohit Sharma.
Q5. How has power-hitting changed ODI cricket?
Ans. Power-hitting, influenced by T20 cricket, has made ODIs more dynamic. Scores of 300+ are now common, and batsmen take a more aggressive approach.