highest individual score in odi

Highest Individual Score in ODI History: Rohit Sharma’s Record-Breaking 264

Published on April 2, 2025
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9 Min read time

Quick Summary

  • Rohit Sharma holds the record for the highest individual score in ODI cricket with 264 runs.
  • He achieved this feat against Sri Lanka on November 13, 2014, at Eden Gardens, Kolkata.
  • Rohit surpassed Virender Sehwag’s previous record of 219 runs, making this inning a historic achievement.

Table of Contents

Highest Individual Score in ODI

Highest Individual Score in ODI: In the One Day International (ODI) cricket match, ten double hundreds have been scored to date. With 264 (the highest individual score in ODI) runs, Rohit Sharma is the One Day highest top individual run scorer. Rohit is the only player with three double-hundreds in One-Day International cricket matches.

Did you know that the first cricketer to score a double century in an ODI is Belinda Cladrk and not Sachin Tendulkar? Shocking right? Today, let us explore such unknown and known facts in the cricketing Highest Individual Score in ODI that will make you love the game even more.

Cricket, often called a gentleman’s game, is beloved for its rich history. It is also cherished for the spirit of competition and its relevance. One of the most intriguing aspects of cricket is the pursuit of individual records. In the realm of one-day international (ODIs), these records hold high significance.

Here are some stats and individual records that play a significant part in the game’s history. They will also tickle your cricketing buds.

Highest Individual Score in ODI

Highest ODI Score by a Batsman: Rohit Sharma (264)

With a career-high 264 runs the highest ODI score by a batsman. Rohit Sharma’s classy and commanding style was on full display against Sri Lanka. Played on November 13, 2014, this incredible inning was a stunning demonstration of timing and accuracy. For cricket fans around the world, Sharma’s effortless stroke play and unwavering focus made it an unforgettable day.

Rohit Sharma is unmatched in the world of one-day international cricket, scoring 264 runs off 173 balls (the highest individual score in ODI) against Sri Lanka to lead the pack. Virender Sehwag is next with 219 runs, followed by Martin Guptill with 237*. Achieving the One Day highest score player record in cricket requires skill and a deep understanding of the game. The record for the highest individual score in ODI has inspired many young cricketers to aspire to greatness. With his remarkable 264-run knock, Rohit Sharma currently holds the record for the highest individual score in ODI cricket.

The top 15 highest scores by a batsman who has scored the most runs in individual ODI cricket are:

Sr.PlayerTeamAgainstDateHigh ScoreTeam Score
1.Rohit SharmaIndiaSri LankaNov 13, 2014264404
2.Martin GuptillNew ZealandWest IndiesMar 21, 2015237*393
3.Virender SehwagIndiaWest IndiesDec 08, 2011219418
4.Chris GayleWest IndiesZimbabweFeb 24, 2015215372
5.Ishan KishanIndiaBangladeshDec 10, 2022210409
6.Pathum NissankaSri LankaAfghanistanFeb 09, 2024210*381
7.Fakhar ZamanPakistanZimbabweJul 20, 2018210*399
8.Rohit SharmaIndiaAustraliaNov 02, 2013209383
9.Shubman GillIndiaNew ZealandJan 18, 2023208349
10.Rohit SharmaIndiaSri LankaDec 13, 2017208*392
11.Glenn MaxwellAustraliaAfghanistanNov 07, 2023201*293
12.Sachin TendulkarIndiaSouth AfricaFeb 24, 2010200*401
13.Saeed AnwarPakistanIndiaMay 21, 1997194327
14.Charles CoventryZimbabweBangladeshAug 16, 2009194*312
15.Fakhar ZamanPakistanSouth AfricaApr 04, 2021193324

List of Highest Individual Scores in ODI

Throughout his career, Rohit Sharma has accomplished many incredible things, one of which is scoring three double hundreds in One Day Internationals (ODIs).

  • 209 vs Australia: At Bangalore, India’s M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on November 2, 2013, Rohit Sharma became the first player to score a double century in one-day international cricket (ODIs). In the seventh game of the bilateral series against Australia, he accomplished this feat. In his innings, Rohit hit 12 fours and 16 sixes.
  • 264 vs Sri Lanka: At Eden Gardens in Kolkata, India, on November 13, 2014, Rohit Sharma broke the previous record and established a new global record for the highest individual score in ODI. Against Sri Lanka in the fourth game of their bilateral series, he accomplished this incredible feat. 33 fours and 9 sixes in Rohit’s innings. The highest individual score in ODI history was set by the legendary Indian batsman, who made history with 264 runs (ODI highest score batsman) in a single match.
  • 208* vs Sri Lanka: Rohit Sharma scored his third consecutive century in One-Day Internationals (ODI) on December 13, 2017, at the Punjab Cricket Association’s IS Bindra Stadium in Mohali, India. In the second game of the bilateral series against Sri Lanka, he reached this milestone. In his innings, Rohit hit 12 sixes and 13 fours.

Previous Record Holders

Below is the information about the Previous Record Holders for the highest individual score in ODI cricket in a table format: 

Rank Batsman Score Date Opposition Venue 
Rohit Sharma 264 runs November 2, 2014 Sri Lanka Eden Gardens, Kolkata 
Virender Sehwag 219 runs December 8, 2011 West Indies Indore, India 
Chris Gayle 215 runs February 24, 2015 Zimbabwe 2015 World Cup, Canberra, Australia 
Martin Guptill 237* runs March 21, 2015 West Indies 2015 World Cup, Wellington, New Zealand 
Shikhar Dhawan 187 runs March 6, 2018 Australia Ranchi, India 
Virat Kohli 183 runs March 18, 2012 Pakistan Delhi, India 

Explanation of the Table: 

  • Rohit Sharma holds the current record with 264 runs, set in 2014. 
  • The table lists previous record holders in reverse chronological order. 
  • Other notable performances include Virender Sehwag’s 219 (2011), Chris Gayle’s 215 (2015), and Martin Guptill’s 237 (2015), all of which were major milestones in ODI history. 
  • Each entry includes the date of the record, the opposition team, and the venue of the match, providing a clear history of the highest individual scores in ODIs. 

The First 200 Runs in ODI

The One Day International (ODI) format, introduced in the 1970s, revolutionized cricket by condensing the game into a single day. It became a platform for batsmen to showcase their skills. The first-ever double century in ODI cricket was scored by Belinda Clark in 1997, when she made 229 runs against Denmark. In men’s cricket, Sachin Tendulkar made history by scoring 200 runs against South Africa* in February 2010. His incredible performance set a new benchmark in ODI cricket and highlighted the importance of individual batting records.

Belinda Clark – First ODI Double Century (1997)

  • Scored 229 runs against Denmark, becoming the first player (male or female) to achieve this feat.
  • A landmark moment in women’s cricket history.

Sachin Tendulkar – First Men’s ODI Double Century (2010)

  • Scored 200 runs against South Africa*, becoming the first male cricketer to score a double century in ODIs.
  • Nicknamed the “Little Master,” Tendulkar’s innings was a blend of classic and modern cricketing shots.
  • His record highlighted the importance of top-order batsmen in setting high individual scores.

Impact of Tendulkar’s Double Century

  • Marked a turning point in ODI cricket, making double centuries a new milestone for batsmen.
  • Inspired future generations to push their batting limits.
  • A memorable moment for cricket fans, showcasing Tendulkar’s dedication and extraordinary talent.

List of Players with 200 Runs in a Single ODI Match

Throughout the history of ODIs, only a few players have managed to reach the 200-run milestone in an inning.

In Men’s Cricket

  • Sachin Tendulkar
  • Virender Sehwag
  • Chris Gayle
  • Martin Guptill
  • Fakhar Zaman
  • Rohit Sharma
  • Ishan Kishan
  • Shubman Gill

In Women’s Cricket

  • Belinda Clark
  • Amelia Kerr

These innings are not achievements; they represent moments of sheer brilliance on the cricket field. Each player showcased their batting styles and skills to reach a personal milestone and significantly contribute to their team’s success. These innings are cherished for their excitement as they often involve a display of shots with impeccable timing and unwavering determination.

The impact of these innings goes beyond cricket, inspiring cricketers to aim high and pursue achievement, they act as role models.

Key Factors Behind Achieving High ODI Scores

The ability to score a huge total in an ODI match depends on a combination of factors: 

  • Skill and Technique: Scoring a massive total in ODIs requires excellent batting technique, shot selection, and the ability to pace the innings effectively. A batsman needs to balance aggression with control, particularly in the middle and death overs. 
  • Physical Endurance: Long innings require not only mental focus but also physical fitness. Batsmen need to maintain their energy and concentration for long periods, especially when batting under pressure. 
  • Match Conditions: A flat pitch with little assistance for bowlers and good weather conditions are often conducive to big scores. A batsman also needs to take advantage of fielding restrictions in the first 10 overs. 
  • Partnerships: While individual brilliance is key, partnerships with other batsmen allow for the buildup of runs without too much pressure on the individual. A solid partnership allows a player to play his natural game and focus on accumulating runs. 

The Fastest ODI Double Century

On December 10, 2022, Ishan Kishan made history against Bangladesh by scoring a double century in just 126 balls, breaking Chris Gayle’s record of 138 balls. His explosive innings of 210 runs off 131 balls became the fastest double century in ODI history. His powerful stroke play and fearless batting showcased the evolution of ODI cricket, proving that aggressive gameplay and calculated risks can lead to extraordinary achievements.

Ishan Kishan’s Fastest ODI Double Century (2022)

  • Scored 210 runs off 131 balls against Bangladesh.
  • Achieved a double century in just 126 balls, breaking Chris Gayle’s record (138 balls).
  • Displayed aggressive batting, fearless approach, and smart shot selection.

Impact on Modern Cricket

  • Inspired young cricketers to adopt an aggressive and fearless approach.
  • Showed that modern ODI cricket rewards power-hitting and risk-taking.
  • A defining moment in limited-overs cricket history.

Comparison with Other ODI Records

  • Rohit Sharma’s 264 against Sri Lanka remains the highest individual score in ODI history.
  • Chris Gayle (215 runs) & Rohit Sharma (264 runs) are among the highest individual scorers in ODIs.

India’s Contribution to the Highest Individual Score in ODI

India, a force in the world of cricket, has made contributions to achieving the highest individual score in ODI (One Day International) cricket. This achievement holds for both men and women categories. Sachin Tendulkar paved the way for men’s cricket by being the first player to achieve 200 runs in an ODI game. This remarkable achievement further solidified his status in the cricketing realm. Another Indian stalwart, Rohit Sharma not surpass the 200-run milestone. Also established a record that remains unbroken till today with his extraordinary innings of 264 runs.

Turning our focus to women’s cricket, Belinda Clark from Australia held the highest individual score in ODI for 17 years, scoring 229* against Denmark in 1997.

The cricketer’s contributions to the record for the highest individual score in ODI cricket showcase their nation’s strength in cricket and the unwavering commitment of its players. When Rohit Sharma hit 264 runs in an ODI, he not only claimed the highest individual score in ODI history but also cemented his place as one of the best batsmen in the world.

Highest Run Scorers in ODI Cricket

Scoring the highest individual runs in an ODI match is an extraordinary achievement, but consistent run accumulation throughout a career is equally impressive. Some cricketers have left a lasting impact on the game with their remarkable consistency and batting excellence.

Leading ODI Run-Scorers

Men’s Cricket – Sachin Tendulkar

  • Known as the “Little Master”, Sachin Tendulkar is the highest run-scorer in ODI history.
  • Played 463 matches, scoring 18,426 runs.
  • Renowned for his consistency, adaptability, and ability to perform under pressure.

Women’s Cricket – Charlotte Edwards

  • England’s Charlotte Edwards holds the record for most ODI runs in women’s cricket.
  • Scored 5,992 runs in 191 matches.
  • Known for her technically sound batting and steady performances.

Significance of Consistency in Cricket

  • Sustained performance over the years defines a true cricketing legend.
  • High run accumulation contributes to team success and personal milestones.
  • Inspires future generations to focus on long-term consistency rather than just big individual scores.

Highest Individual Score in ODI History

  • Rohit Sharma’s 264 runs against Sri Lanka remain the highest individual ODI score.
  • His record has stood the test of time, emphasizing the difficulty of achieving such a milestone.

Impact of High Individual Scores on Team Success 

While individual records like the highest score are celebrated, they are usually more impactful when they result in a team victory. Rohit Sharma’s 264, for instance, contributed to India’s win, as they posted a huge total that was difficult for Sri Lanka to chase. 

High individual scores not only boost the team’s total but also lift the morale of the players, setting the tone for the match. However, these efforts can sometimes be in vain if the team fails to bowl or field effectively or if the opposition outperforms the batting side.

Evolution of Batting Records in ODIs

Cricket has evolved significantly over the years, shaping the way ODIs are played and impacting batting records. Several factors, including technological advancements, changing strategies, and the rise of T20 cricket, have contributed to this transformation.

1. Technological Advancements

  • Better bat designs allow for more powerful shots.
  • High-definition cameras and video analysis help batsmen study bowlers’ weaknesses.
  • Decision Review System (DRS) has changed how players make decisions.

2. Changing Cricket Strategies

  • Powerplay fielding restrictions encourage aggressive batting.
  • Teams now focus on high run rates and risk-taking.

3. Impact of T20 Cricket

  • T20’s aggressive mindset has influenced ODI batting styles.
  • Batsmen now take more risks and play innovative shots.
  • Higher scoring rates and record-breaking performances have become common.

Pushing Boundaries in ODI Cricket

Despite these changes, breaking records remains a major goal. Cricketers continuously strive to set new milestones and leave a lasting legacy in the sport.

The Journey of Hiting the Century

The journey towards achieving the highest individual score in ODI cricket demonstrates the unwavering determination of cricketers. Legends like Sachin Tendulkar, Rohit Sharma, Belinda Clark, and many others have set records that inspire generations. These records not only demonstrate talent but also highlight the constantly evolving nature of the game.

As cricket continues to progress, so will the pursuit of records by individuals. The relentless pursuit of excellence will continue to motivate cricketers to push their boundaries and reach new heights. The magnetic appeal of breaking batting records in cricket in ODIs ensures that fans will always be treated to moments of sheer cricketing brilliance.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. Who currently holds the record for the highest score in men’s One Day International (ODI) cricket?

Currently, Rohit Sharma, a cricketer, has the achievement of holding the record for the highest ODI score by a batsman in Indian cricket with an incredible 264 runs.

Q2. Who previously held the record for the score in women’s cricket?

For 17 years, Belinda Clark, a talented Australian cricketer, held the record for the highest individual score in women’s ODI cricket with her unbeaten 229* runs.

Q3. Who is currently recognized as having scored the fastest double century in One Day Internationals (ODIs)?

Ishan Kishan now holds the record for the quickest double-century in ODIs. He achieved this milestone by reaching 200 runs off in just 126 balls during a match against Bangladesh in December 2022.

Q4. Who is the most run scorer in men’s and women’s ODI cricket?

In men’s ODI cricket, Sachin Tendulkar leads as the run scorer with a total of 18,426 runs. On the other hand, Charlotte Edwards from England holds the record for women’s cricket with an impressive tally of 5,992 runs.

Q5. Who scored the most ODI century in history?

Cricketer Virat Kohli. With 50 hundreds since his 2008 debut to the present, Kohli holds the record for the most ODI hundreds.

Q6. Who scored 200 in the ODI?

Sachin Tendulkar: Legendary Indian batter Sachin Tendulkar scored a double century against South Africa in 2010 at Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh. In 147 balls, he scored 200* runs in an inning. Virender Sehwag: Sehwag scored a double century in the 2011 ODI series match in Indore against the West Indies.

Q7. Who has scored the most runs in an ODI?

The record for the most runs in individual ODI cricket is held by Sachin Tendulkar of India, with 18,426 runs.

Q8. Who has the most sixes in ODI?

The record for the most sixes in ODI cricket is held by Shahid Afridi of Pakistan, with 351 sixes.

Authored by, Amay Mathur | Senior Editor

Amay Mathur is a business news reporter at Chegg.com. He previously worked for PCMag, Business Insider, The Messenger, and ZDNET as a reporter and copyeditor. His areas of coverage encompass tech, business, strategy, finance, and even space. He is a Columbia University graduate.

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