What happens when timing, talent, and temperament collide on a perfect day? You get the highest ODI score by a batsman — a knock so dominant that it rewrites cricket history.
One Day Internationals (ODIs) have seen some breathtaking innings over the decades. But a few performances stand far above the rest, setting world records and becoming part of cricket folklore. In this article, we’ll break down the highest individual ODI score, look at the top 10 biggest scores in ODI history, explore match context, and answer the most searched questions about these iconic innings.
If you’ve ever wondered who holds the record for the highest ODI score by a batsman, you’re about to find out.
The Highest ODI Score by a Batsman
The record for the highest ODI score by a batsman belongs to Rohit Sharma, who smashed 264 runs against Sri Lanka on November 13, 2014, at Eden Gardens, Kolkata.
Match Snapshot:
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Runs: 264
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Balls Faced: 173
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Fours: 33
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Sixes: 9
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Strike Rate: 152.60
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Opponent: Sri Lanka
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Venue: Kolkata
Rohit’s innings was not just about big hitting — it was about pacing. He started steadily but exploded in the final 10 overs, scoring 100+ runs in that phase alone. It remains the only double century above 250 in ODI cricket.
Top 10 Highest Individual Scores in ODI Cricket
Here’s a comprehensive table of the highest ODI scores by a batsman in international cricket:
| Rank | Player | Score | Balls | Opposition | Year |
| 1 | Rohit Sharma | 264 | 173 | Sri Lanka | 2014 |
| 2 | Martin Guptill | 237* | 163 | West Indies | 2015 |
| 3 | Virender Sehwag | 219 | 149 | West Indies | 2011 |
| 4 | Chris Gayle | 215 | 147 | Zimbabwe | 2015 |
| 5 | Fakhar Zaman | 210* | 156 | Zimbabwe | 2018 |
| 6 | Ishan Kishan | 210 | 131 | Bangladesh | 2022 |
| 7 | Pathum Nissanka | 210* | 139 | Afghanistan | 2024 |
| 8 | Rohit Sharma (2nd entry) | 209 | 158 | Australia | 2013 |
| 9 | Rohit Sharma (3rd entry) | 208* | 153 | Sri Lanka | 2017 |
| 10 | Shubman Gill | 208 | 149 | New Zealand | 2023 |
Note: Asterisk () denotes not out.*
How ODI Double Centuries Became Possible
For decades, scoring a double century in ODIs seemed impossible.
The first breakthrough came in 2010 when Sachin Tendulkar became the first batsman to reach 200 in ODIs. Since then, multiple players have crossed the 200-run milestone.
Why are massive scores more common now?
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Fielding restrictions (Powerplays)
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Two new balls rule
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Flatter batting pitches
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Aggressive modern batting mindset
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Advanced fitness & bat technology
However, even among double centuries, 264 still stands alone — a statistical outlier in ODI cricket.
Breaking Down Rohit Sharma’s 264
Let’s examine why the innings that holds the highest ODI score by a batsman is so special.
1. Slow Start, Explosive Finish
Rohit was on 4 off 16 balls at one stage. Many batters would have struggled, but he remained calm.
2. Most Runs in an ODI Innings (Boundary Count)
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33 fours = 132 runs
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9 sixes = 54 runs
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Total boundary runs: 186
That means over 70% of his runs came in boundaries.
3. Record Partnerships
He stitched crucial partnerships that ensured India posted 404/5 — a massive total in 2014 standards.
Other Legendary ODI Knocks
While 264 is the highest ODI score by a batsman, some innings deserve special mention:
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Martin Guptill’s 237* in the 2015 World Cup quarterfinal — highest score in a World Cup.
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Chris Gayle’s 215 — the first World Cup double century.
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Ishan Kishan’s 210 — fastest ODI double century by balls faced.
Each of these innings shaped modern ODI batting trends.
Statistical Insights: Double Hundreds in ODI History
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Total ODI double centuries scored: 10+
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Most double centuries by a player: Rohit Sharma (3)
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Highest in World Cup: 237* (Guptill)
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Fastest double century: 126 balls
India leads the list with the most ODI double centurions.
Why 264 May Stand for Years
Could someone score 300 in ODIs?
It’s possible — especially on flat pitches with 50 overs and aggressive T20-style batting. But several factors make it rare:
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Physical exhaustion
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Risk of run-outs
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Team strategy (declaring dominance vs personal milestones)
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Captain’s tactical decisions
264 isn’t just about talent — it required the perfect storm.
FAQs About the Highest ODI Score by a Batsman
1. Who has the highest ODI score by a batsman?
Rohit Sharma holds the record with 264 runs against Sri Lanka in 2014.
2. How many double centuries are there in ODI cricket?
There have been over 10 ODI double centuries in men’s international cricket.
3. Who scored the fastest ODI double century?
Ishan Kishan holds the record for the fastest ODI double hundred (126 balls).
4. What is the highest ODI score in a World Cup?
Martin Guptill scored 237* in the 2015 World Cup.
5. Has anyone scored 300 in ODIs?
No, 264 remains the highest ODI score by a batsman so far.
Conclusion: A Record That Defines Modern ODI Cricket
The highest ODI score by a batsman — 264 by Rohit Sharma — is more than just a number. It represents the evolution of ODI cricket: fearless batting, improved fitness, smarter strategies, and explosive finishing.
While cricket continues to evolve, this record remains one of the toughest in the sport. Could we someday witness a 300 in ODIs? Maybe. But until then, 264 stands tall as the ultimate benchmark of one-day batting greatness.