When it comes to One Day International (ODI) cricket, a few batters have left an unforgettable mark with their talent, skill, and sheer dominance. From powerful hitters to those who could guide their team to victory with calm precision, ODI cricket has seen it all. Let’s look at the top 10 greatest men’s ODI batters of all time players who have not only rewritten records but also captured the imagination of millions of fans worldwide. Get ready to relive some incredible innings and legendary careers that define the spirit of ODI cricket.
10. Brian Lara
Brian Charles Lara, known as the “Prince of Trinidad,” was among the most formidable batters in the 1990s and 2000s. He ended his ODI career with 10,405 runs at an average of 40.48 and a strike rate of 79.51 in 299 matches. One of Lara’s greatest moments came during the 1996 World Cup quarter-final, where he scored 111 off 94 balls, leading the West Indies to a 19-run win against South Africa.
Brian Lara’s ODI Stats
| Matches | Runs | Average | Strike Rate | Centuries |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 299 | 10,405 | 40.48 | 79.51 | 19 |
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9. Kumar Sangakkara
Former Sri Lankan captain Kumar Sangakkara ranks as the second-highest run-scorer in ODI cricket, with 14,234 runs. He also holds seventh place for most ODI centuries with 25 and has an impressive World Cup average of nearly 57 over 37 matches.
Kumar Sangakkara’s ODI Stats
| Matches | Runs | Average | Strike Rate | Centuries |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 404 | 14,234 | 41.98 | 78.86 | 25 |
8. Michael Bevan
Michael Bevan, known for his unmatched finishing skills, maintained a batting average in the 50s throughout his ODI career, a rare achievement during the 1990s. He also had an average of over 86 in successful run chases.
Michael Bevan’s ODI Stats
| Matches | Runs | Average | Strike Rate | Centuries |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 232 | 6,912 | 53.58 | 74.16 | 6 |
7. Ricky Ponting
Ricky Ponting, the former Australian captain, was known for stepping up in high-stakes matches. He ended his ODI career as the fourth leading run-scorer, with 13,704 runs, and played a key role in Australia’s back-to-back World Cup victories in 2003 and 2007.
Ricky Ponting’s ODI Stats
| Matches | Runs | Average | Strike Rate | Centuries |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 375 | 13,704 | 42.03 | 80.39 | 30 |
6. Rohit Sharma
Indian captain Rohit Sharma holds numerous ODI records, including being the only player to score three double centuries. He also holds the record for the most centuries in a single World Cup edition, with five centuries in 2019.
Rohit Sharma’s ODI Stats
| Matches | Runs | Average | Strike Rate | Centuries |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 265 | 10,866 | 49.16 | 92.43 | 31 |
5. MS Dhoni
Considered the greatest finisher in ODI history, MS Dhoni maintained a career average of 50.57. He also played a crucial role in India’s 2011 World Cup triumph, scoring an unbeaten 91 in the final.
MS Dhoni’s ODI Stats
| Matches | Runs | Average | Strike Rate | Centuries |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 350 | 10,773 | 50.57 | 87.56 | 10 |
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4. AB de Villiers
South African icon AB de Villiers is the only player with a 50+ average and a strike rate above 100 in over 200 matches. He also holds records for the fastest 50, 100, and 150 in ODIs.
AB de Villiers’ ODI Stats
| Matches | Runs | Average | Strike Rate | Centuries |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 228 | 9,577 | 53.50 | 101.09 | 25 |
3. Viv Richards
Vivian Richards revolutionized ODI cricket during the 1970s and 1980s. He averaged 47 at a strike rate of 90.20, an incredible feat during his time, and played a major role in the West Indies’ World Cup victories in 1975 and 1979.
Viv Richards’ ODI Stats
| Matches | Runs | Average | Strike Rate | Centuries |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 187 | 6,721 | 47 | 90.20 | 11 |
2. Virat Kohli
Virat Kohli, who is still playing, is among the greatest ODI batters ever. He holds the record for the fastest 10,000 runs and the most centuries with 50. Kohli has also excelled in World Cups, boasting an average close to 60.
Virat Kohli’s ODI Stats
| Matches | Runs | Average | Strike Rate | Centuries |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 295 | 13,906 | 58.18 | 93.54 | 50 |
1. Sachin Tendulkar
Sachin Tendulkar remains the greatest ODI batter of all time. Known as the “Little Master,” he played over 23 years, amassing 18,426 runs. He also holds the record for the most Player-of-the-Match awards in ODIs with 62.
Sachin Tendulkar’s ODI Stats
| Matches | Runs | Average | Strike Rate | Centuries |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 463 | 18,426 | 44.83 | 86.23 | 49 |
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