Introduction: Highest Score in ODI: Who Scored the Most,
When it comes to One Day Internationals (ODIs), the format has seen some jaw-dropping performances over the years. But nothing grabs attention quite like a massive individual score. Among all the brilliant knocks, one name stands tall at the top—Rohit Sharma, who smashed a historic 264 runs against Sri Lanka in 2014. That record still stands strong.
Let’s take a look at the top 20 players who’ve registered the highest individual scores in ODI history, and what made their performances so memorable.
Table of Contents
Top 20 Highest Individual Scores in ODIs
Rohit Sharma – 264 Runs (India)
India’s current captain, Rohit Sharma, created history when he hammered 264 runs in a single ODI match. Not only is it the highest individual score ever in the format, but Rohit also holds three double centuries in ODIs—something no other cricketer has achieved. His ability to shift gears mid-innings makes him one of the greatest white-ball players ever.
Virender Sehwag – 219 Runs (India)
The Nawab of Najafgarh was at his destructive best when he piled on 219 runs against West Indies in 2011. Known for his fearless approach, Sehwag didn’t just hit boundaries—he demoralized bowlers with his strokeplay.
Chris Gayle – 215 Runs (West Indies)
The “Universe Boss” did what he does best—destroy bowling attacks. Gayle smashed 215 runs against Zimbabwe during the 2015 World Cup. It was brutal, entertaining, and exactly what you’d expect from one of T20’s most feared hitters.
Sachin Tendulkar – 200 Runs (India)*
When Sachin Tendulkar became the first cricketer ever to score a double century in ODIs (against South Africa in 2010), it felt like the cricketing world had witnessed history. It was classic Sachin—timing, placement, and absolute elegance.
Sanath Jayasuriya – 189 Runs (Sri Lanka)
Known for his explosive starts, Jayasuriya made 189 against India back in 2000. At that time, it was one of the highest scores ever seen. He played a huge role in redefining how openers approach ODI cricket.
Virat Kohli – 183 Runs (India)
Chasing a tough target against Pakistan in 2012, Kohli pulled off a masterclass innings with 183 runs. It was the innings that cemented his reputation as the “Chase Master.”
Sourav Ganguly – 183 Runs (India)
The former Indian skipper played a brilliant knock of 183 runs against Sri Lanka in the 1999 World Cup. Ganguly’s attacking game at the top helped lay the foundation for India’s modern ODI success.
MS Dhoni – 183 Runs (India)*
When India was struggling against Sri Lanka in 2005, a young MS Dhoni walked in and played a legendary unbeaten innings of 183 runs. That knock turned him into a household name overnight.
AB de Villiers – 176 Runs (South Africa)
AB de Villiers, also known as “Mr. 360,” tore apart the Bangladesh bowling lineup with a blistering 176-run innings. He also holds the record for the fastest ODI hundred. His versatility is unmatched.
Adam Gilchrist – 172 Runs (Australia)
Gilchrist’s powerful batting at the top gave Australia a solid platform for years. His 172 against Zimbabwe was one of the most aggressive knocks played by a wicketkeeper in ODIs.
More Legendary Innings
Here are more legends who have etched their names in ODI history with extraordinary scores:
| Player | Highest Score | Country |
|---|---|---|
| Kumar Sangakkara | 169 | Sri Lanka |
| Brian Lara | 169 | West Indies |
| Ricky Ponting | 164 | Australia |
| Tillakaratne Dilshan | 161* | Sri Lanka |
| Rahul Dravid | 153 | India |
| Mohammad Azharuddin | 153* | India |
| Aravinda de Silva | 145 | Sri Lanka |
| Mahela Jayawardene | 144 | Sri Lanka |
| Jacques Kallis | 139 | South Africa |
| Inzamam-ul-Haq | 137* | Pakistan |
Stats Breakdown: Top Players with Highest Scores in ODI
Here’s a quick look at how these stars performed over their ODI careers:
| Player | High Score | Total Runs | Matches | Avg | 100s | 50s | 4s | 6s | Career Span |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rohit Sharma | 264 | 11,168 | 273 | 48.76 | 32 | 58 | 1045 | 344 | 2007–2025 |
| Virender Sehwag | 219 | 8,273 | 251 | 35.05 | 15 | 38 | 1132 | 136 | 1999–2013 |
| Chris Gayle | 215 | 10,480 | 301 | 37.83 | 25 | 54 | 1128 | 331 | 1999–2019 |
| Sachin Tendulkar | 200* | 18,426 | 463 | 44.83 | 49 | 96 | 2016 | 195 | 1989–2012 |
| Sanath Jayasuriya | 189 | 13,430 | 445 | 32.36 | 28 | 68 | 1500 | 270 | 1989–2011 |
| Virat Kohli | 183 | 14,181 | 302 | 57.88 | 51 | 74 | 1325 | 152 | 2008–2025 |
| Sourav Ganguly | 183 | 11,363 | 311 | 41.02 | 22 | 72 | 1122 | 190 | 1992–2007 |
| MS Dhoni | 183* | 10,773 | 350 | 50.57 | 10 | 73 | 826 | 229 | 2004–2019 |
| AB de Villiers | 176 | 9,577 | 228 | 53.50 | 25 | 53 | 840 | 204 | 2005–2018 |
| Adam Gilchrist | 172 | 9,619 | 287 | 35.89 | 16 | 55 | 1162 | 149 | 1996–2008 |
The rest of the list continues with equally legendary players, all of whom have played critical roles for their countries.
Final Thoughts
The highest individual scores in ODIs remind us just how magical one player’s performance can be in changing the course of a match. From Rohit’s surreal 264 to Tendulkar’s record-setting double century, these innings are more than just numbers—they’re iconic moments in cricket history.
Players like Kohli, Sangakkara, and Dhoni have shown how consistency, focus, and smart gameplay can make all the difference. Every batter on this list didn’t just score runs—they created memories that fans will cherish forever.
