ODI cricket has witnessed some truly extraordinary individual performances over the years, where batsmen have taken the game to a whole new level with their stunning innings. These innings have often come in high-stakes matches, showcasing a blend of power, skill, and resilience. From Rohit Sharma’s record-breaking feats to Martin Guptill’s World Cup heroics, let's take a look at the seven highest individual scores in ODI cricket history.
Rohit Sharma: The Record-Breaking Innings
Rohit Sharma, known as the "Hitman" of cricket, holds the record for the highest individual score in ODI cricket. His monumental 264-run knock came against Sri Lanka at Eden Gardens, Kolkata. Facing 173 balls, Rohit smashed 33 fours and 9 sixes, guiding India to a massive total of 404/5. This innings showcased Rohit's remarkable ability to hit boundaries at will, his exceptional timing, and his unwavering focus. It remains a testament to his prowess as a batsman and a reminder of his ability to dominate any bowling attack.
Martin Guptill: World Cup Heroics
New Zealand’s Martin Guptill holds the second-highest individual score in ODIs with his unbeaten 237 runs against the West Indies in the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup quarterfinal. Guptill’s massive knock, laced with 24 boundaries and 11 sixes, was a match-winning performance and remains the highest individual score in a World Cup match. His ability to time the ball to perfection made this innings a standout, especially as it came on a pressure-filled occasion. This innings cemented Guptill's status as a World Cup legend and a player capable of producing exceptional performances on the biggest stage.
Virender Sehwag: The Aggressive Approach
Virender Sehwag became only the second player in ODI history to score a double century. On December 8, 2011, Sehwag smashed 219 runs off 149 balls against West Indies in Indore. Sehwag’s aggressive approach throughout the innings earned him a place in cricketing history. His fearless attitude and ability to take on bowlers from the start made him a truly unique batsman. He was known for his attacking intent and his ability to score at a rapid pace, making him a crowd favorite. Sehwag’s innings against West Indies was a prime example of his aggressive style, a reminder of his ability to dismantle any bowling attack with his explosive batting.
Chris Gayle: The ‘Universe Boss’
'Universe Boss' Chris Gayle delivered one of the most memorable ODI innings during the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup. His 215-run knock against Zimbabwe in Canberra included 10 fours and 16 towering sixes. Gayle reached his double century off 138 balls, becoming the first player to score a double hundred in a World Cup, propelling the West Indies to 372/2. This innings was a display of power hitting and entertainment at its finest. Gayle’s six-hitting prowess was on full display as he launched the ball into the stands with remarkable ease. This innings was a reminder of his immense talent and his ability to take the game away from the opposition with his explosive batting.
Fakhar Zaman: Pakistan's Double Century Hero
Pakistan's Fakhar Zaman etched his name in the record books by becoming the first Pakistani to score a double century in ODIs. His unbeaten 210-run knock came against Zimbabwe on July 20, 2018, in Bulawayo. Zaman’s 156-ball innings featured 24 fours and 5 sixes, and he helped Pakistan post 399/1, a match they won easily. This innings was a display of class and composure, showcasing Zaman's ability to bat for long periods and score runs at a consistent rate. He played with a mix of aggression and elegance, making him a vital player for Pakistan in the years to come.
Pathum Nissanka: Sri Lanka’s Record-Breaking Effort
Sri Lanka’s Pathum Nissanka etched his name in the record books with an unbeaten 210 against Afghanistan in 2024. His innings, filled with elegant strokes and solid technique, helped Sri Lanka to a massive total. This innings was a testament to Nissanka's talent and his ability to bat for long periods of time with a high level of concentration. His innings showcased his class and his potential to become a future star for Sri Lanka.
Ishan Kishan: Fastest Double Century
India’s Ishan Kishan became the youngest player to score a double century in ODIs with his incredible knock of 210 against Bangladesh on December 10, 2022, in Chattogram. Kishan reached his double century in just 126 balls, making it the fastest double century in ODI history. This innings was a display of raw power and exceptional timing. Kishan's ability to score runs at an astonishing rate made him a force to be reckoned with in the ODI format. His performance was a sign of his enormous potential and his ability to play a key role in India's future success.
The Pursuit of Records
These seven players have left an indelible mark on ODI cricket, showcasing the power, skill, and resilience required to reach the pinnacle of individual performance. Each of these innings represents a unique chapter in the history of the game, and they are sure to inspire future generations of cricketers. As the game evolves, the pursuit of records continues, and one can only wonder what incredible feats await us in the future of ODI cricket. This pursuit of records is a testament to the spirit of competition and excellence that defines the sport. It inspires players to push the boundaries of what is possible and to strive for greatness. Each time a record is broken, it becomes a new benchmark for future generations to aim for. The pursuit of records in ODI cricket is a captivating journey that continues to enthrall fans across the globe.
