Top 10 Greatest ODI Innings of All Time That Shocked the World

The history of One Day International (ODI) cricket has witnessed several jaw-dropping performances, but only a few stand out as truly iconic. These innings have not only changed the course of matches but have also redefined how the game is played. In this article, we highlight the Greatest ODI Innings of All Time, ranked from 10 to 1, each with long-form descriptions and complete stats. These knocks are remembered for their pressure situations, big-match impact, and sheer brilliance.

List of Top 10 Greatest ODI Innings of All Time That Shocked the World

10. AB de Villiers – 162 vs West Indies (2015 World Cup)

When AB de Villiers walked in to bat in the 2015 World Cup match against West Indies, he had only one thing in mind destruction. His unbeaten 162 off just 66 balls is one of the Greatest ODI Innings of All Time, showcasing unimaginable power, balance, and timing. He tore apart the West Indies bowlers, hitting boundaries at will and rotating strike masterfully. This innings helped South Africa post 439/2, which was too much for the opposition. De Villiers proved why he’s called Mr. 360.

Player	Score	Balls	4s/6s	Opponent	Year
AB de Villiers	162*	66	17/8	West Indies	2015

9. Rohit Sharma – 264 vs Sri Lanka (2014)

Rohit Sharma’s 264 remains the highest individual score in ODI history, making it one of the Greatest ODI Innings of All Time. He started slow but accelerated perfectly to dominate the Sri Lankan attack. With 33 fours and 9 sixes, Rohit played shots all around the park. His ability to pace the innings and still score at such a high strike rate was extraordinary. India posted a huge total, and Rohit’s innings is still a benchmark for batsmen worldwide.

Player	Score	Balls	4s/6s	Opponent	Year
Rohit Sharma	264	173	33/9	Sri Lanka	2014

8. Ricky Ponting – 140 vs India (2003 World Cup Final)

In the 2003 World Cup Final, Ricky Ponting played an innings for the ages. Under pressure and on the biggest stage, he scored an unbeaten 140 filled with authority and aggression. This knock is undoubtedly one of the Greatest ODI Innings of All Time, as it crushed India’s hopes and led Australia to World Cup glory. Ponting’s shot selection and execution were flawless as he led from the front.

Player	Score	Balls	4s/6s	Opponent	Year
Ricky Ponting	140*	121	8/4	India	2003

7. AB de Villiers – 149 vs West Indies (2015)

In this blistering knock, AB de Villiers showcased what it means to dominate an opponent. His 149 came in just 44 balls, including the fastest century in ODI history (31 balls). Every cricket fan agrees this is one of the Greatest ODI Innings of All Time due to the pace, power, and precision of the shots. He dismantled the bowling unit and stunned the cricketing world with his batting genius.

Player	Score	Balls	4s/6s	Opponent	Year
AB de Villiers	149	44	9/16	West Indies	2015

6. Martin Guptill – 237 vs West Indies (2015 World Cup)

Martin Guptill’s 237* in the 2015 World Cup quarter-final remains the highest score in World Cup history. He batted through the innings, showing superb concentration and attacking instincts. It is rightly called one of the Greatest ODI Innings of All Time because of the context, the pressure, and the stakes involved. He ensured New Zealand’s place in the semi-finals with this marathon knock.

Player	Score	Balls	4s/6s	Opponent	Year
Martin Guptill	237*	163	24/11	West Indies	2015

5. Herschelle Gibbs – 175 vs Australia (2006)

Herschelle Gibbs played a fearless innings during the famous 434-run chase. His 175 was a blend of aggressive and intelligent batting. Facing one of the best teams in history, Gibbs’s knock led South Africa to the highest successful run-chase ever. This is certainly one of the Greatest ODI Innings of All Time for its audacity and historical significance.

Player	Score	Balls	4s/6s	Opponent	Year
Herschelle Gibbs	175	111	21/7	Australia	2006

4. Sachin Tendulkar – 200 vs South Africa (2010)

The first man to score a double century in ODIs Sachin Tendulkar achieved this against a top South African bowling lineup. His 200* is one of the Greatest ODI Innings of All Time for breaking barriers and setting new standards. With impeccable timing, footwork, and placement, Tendulkar showed the world what batting mastery looks like.

Player	Score	Balls	4s/6s	Opponent	Year
Sachin Tendulkar	200*	147	25/3	South Africa	2010

3. Brian Lara – 153 vs Australia (1999)

Brian Lara stood tall in a must-win game against Australia in the 1999 World Cup. His 153* was full of class, elegance, and authority. Taking on a strong Australian attack, Lara carried his team to victory. It’s one of the Greatest ODI Innings of All Time because of its match-winning nature under extreme pressure.

Player	Score	Balls	4s/6s	Opponent	Year
Brian Lara	153*	143	15/4	Australia	1999

2. Vivian Richards – 189 vs England (1984)

Viv Richards was at his destructive best when he scored 189* against England. The West Indies were in trouble, but Richards batted with power and pride. This remains one of the Greatest ODI Innings of All Time because of its dominance, style, and the way it rescued his team from collapse.

Player	Score	Balls	4s/6s	Opponent	Year
Viv Richards	189*	170	21/5	England	1984

1. Kapil Dev – 175 vs Zimbabwe (1983 World Cup)

At 17/5, India looked certain to lose. But then walked in Kapil Dev. His 175* is not just one of the Greatest ODI Innings of All Time, it’s arguably the most important knock in Indian cricket history. It saved India in the 1983 World Cup and inspired a generation of cricketers. Kapil batted with courage, confidence, and composure.

Player	Score	Balls	4s/6s	Opponent	Year
Kapil Dev	175*	138	16/6	Zimbabwe	1983

READ MORE:

• Top 10 Most Thrilling Super Over Matches in Cricket History – Pure Drama and Passion
• Top 5 Players with Most Matches for Nepal in T20Is: Nepal’s Consistent Warriors

FAQ