Several cricketers have achieved the remarkable feat of scoring double centuries in One Day Internationals (ODIs). These extraordinary innings not only demonstrate aggressive stroke play but also underline the consistency and skill required to reach such milestones. Some of these knocks have set unbreakable records, with one still holding the title of the highest individual score in ODI history, reflecting exceptional batting talent, endurance, and the ability to dominate in the 50-over format.
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Sachin Tendulkar (India) – 200* vs South Africa, 2010
Sachin Tendulkar, the “Master Blaster,” made history on February 24, 2010, by becoming the first cricketer to score a double century in an ODI. Playing for India during their tour of South Africa in Gwalior, he scored an unbeaten 200 off 147 balls, including 25 fours and 3 sixes. This iconic innings not only displayed his exceptional skill but also solidified his legacy in ODI cricket, setting a new benchmark for batsmen across the globe.
Virender Sehwag (India) – 219 vs West Indies, 2011
Virender Sehwag, known for his aggressive batting style, made history with an incredible 219-run innings against the West Indies on December 8, 2011, in Indore. Facing 149 balls, Sehwag hit 25 fours and 7 sixes, showcasing a fearless display of power hitting. His double century not only set a personal record but also helped India post an unassailable total. At that time, Sehwag’s 219 became the highest individual score in ODIs, a record that lasted until 2014.
Chris Gayle (West Indies) – 215 vs Zimbabwe, 2015
Chris Gayle, the hard-hitting left-hander known for his towering sixes, made history by becoming the first cricketer to score a double century in a World Cup match on February 24, 2015. Facing Zimbabwe in Canberra during the ICC Cricket World Cup, Gayle smashed a remarkable 215 runs off 147 balls. His explosive innings included 10 sixes and 16 boundaries, completely dismantling Zimbabwe’s bowling attack. This iconic knock became one of the standout moments of the 2015 World Cup, showcasing Gayle’s unmatched power and dominance in ODI cricket.
Martin Guptill (New Zealand) – 237* vs West Indies, 2015
Martin Guptill, the New Zealand opener, etched his name in World Cup history with the highest individual score ever recorded in the tournament. On March 21, 2015, during the quarterfinals against the West Indies in Wellington, Guptill played a sensational unbeaten knock of 237 runs from 163 balls. His innings, featuring 24 fours and 11 sixes, propelled New Zealand to a formidable total, playing a crucial role in their victory. Guptill’s record-breaking performance remains a landmark in World Cup cricket, highlighting his balance of patience and powerful stroke play.
Rohit Sharma (India) – 209 vs Australia, 2013
Rohit Sharma, renowned for his elegant stroke play and impeccable timing, became the second player ever to score a double century in ODIs. On November 2, 2013, in Bangalore, he struck a remarkable 209 runs off 158 balls against Australia. His innings included 12 fours and a record-breaking 16 sixes, demonstrating Sharma’s ability to dominate and construct huge scores. This milestone marked the beginning of a historic phase for Sharma, who would go on to break multiple records, solidifying his legacy as a master of long innings in ODI cricket.
Rohit Sharma (India) – 264 vs Sri Lanka, 2014
Rohit Sharma’s 264-run masterpiece against Sri Lanka on November 13, 2014, at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, remains the highest individual score in ODI history. This extraordinary innings, made from 173 balls, included 33 fours and 9 sixes, blending patience with explosive power. Leading India to a formidable total of 404/5, Sharma’s historic knock further cemented his status as one of the greatest talents in the 50-over format, showcasing his ability to construct monumental scores.
Shikhar Dhawan (India) – 187 vs Sri Lanka, 2016
Though not a double century, Shikhar Dhawan’s 187 against Sri Lanka in 2016 highlighted his consistency and high-scoring ability. On October 17, 2016, during the second ODI in Mohali, Dhawan showcased a perfect blend of technique and controlled aggression, scoring 187 off 127 balls. His near-perfect innings demonstrated his ability to anchor the innings while accelerating, proving to be invaluable in high-pressure situations.
