Which 150+ ODI knock stands above the rest? A deep dive into the most dominant, stylish, and record-breaking innings.
Be it Glenn Maxwell’s 201* while battling cramps or Kapil Dev’s 175*, which turned the tide for India, some innings stand out for their sheer dominance, impact, and brilliance. Among the many memorable knocks, a toss-up arises between five iconic 150+ scores: Glenn Maxwell’s 201* against Afghanistan in Mumbai 2023, Kapil Dev’s 175* against Zimbabwe in Tunbridge Wells 1983, Viv Richards’ 189* versus England in Manchester 1984, Herschelle Gibbs’ 175 against Australia in Johannesburg 2006, and Sachin Tendulkar’s 175 against Australia in Hyderabad 2009.
Maxwell’s 201* vs Afghanistan, Mumbai 2023
Glenn Maxwell’s unbeaten 201 off just 128 balls during the 2023 World Cup against Afghanistan was nothing short of miraculous. Batting at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium, he came out when Australia was precariously placed at 91/7 chasing 292.
He played the impressive innings under extreme physical duress, battling cramps and exhaustion in the intense heat. Maxwell shattered records by becoming the first Australian man to score an ODI double century.
He struck 10 sixes and 16 fours, crafting the highest eighth-wicket partnership of 202 runs with captain Pat Cummins, who stayed unbeaten at 12. This exceptional knock not only inspired Australia to a stunning comeback but also secured their semi-final berth in the competition, and the Kangaroos went on to win the coveted trophy.
Read More: Maxwell smashes record books; single-handedly takes Australia into the semis
Kapil Dev’s 175* vs Zimbabwe, Tunbridge Wells 1983
Kapil Dev’s unbeaten 175 against Zimbabwe during the 1983 Prudential World Cup remains one of the most significant innings in ODI history. Coming in at number six, Kapil rescued India from a crushing position of 17-5.
His 175* off 138 balls, including 16 boundaries and 6 sixes, was played in an era where aggressive batting was rare, especially in England’s seaming conditions. This knock turned the tide for India’s campaign and propelled the team to eventually win their first-ever World Cup, marking a landmark moment in Indian cricket.
Viv Richards’ 189* vs England, Manchester 1984
Viv Richards’ unbeaten 189 off 170 balls at Old Trafford is often hailed as the pinnacle of ODI batting artistry. Richards entered the crease with West Indies struggling at 11-2 and again at the tail end with the team tottering at 102-7.
His aggressive stroke play, including 21 fours and 5 sixes, blunted England’s bowling attack comprehensively. Alongside Michael Holding, he stitched a steadfast 106-run tenth-wicket partnership, leading West Indies to a competitive 272/9 total.
The innings set a world record highest individual ODI score at the time and remains a benchmark for batting excellence, resilience, and dominance in pressure situations.
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Herschelle Gibbs’ 175 vs Australia, Johannesburg 2006
Herschelle Gibbs earned immortality with his swashbuckling 175 off just 111 balls against Australia in Johannesburg’s record-breaking chase of 434 runs, the highest successful run chase in ODI history.
Remarkably, Gibbs revealed in his autobiography that he battled a severe hangover during this knock. Yet he smashed 21 fours and 7 sixes, exhibiting exceptional power-hitting and timing. His innings formed the cornerstone of South Africa’s historical victory and showcased the fearless approach that ODI cricket demands at the highest level.
Sachin Tendulkar’s 175 vs Australia, Hyderabad 2009
Sachin Tendulkar’s 175 against Australia in the 2009 ODI series in Hyderabad showcased the Master Blaster in sublime form against a formidable bowling attack. Facing a challenging target of 351, Tendulkar dominated with impeccable timing and shot selection, reaching his century off 81 balls and finishing with 19 boundaries and 4 sixes.
Despite India falling just short, his knock is remembered for its technical mastery, controlled aggression, and clutch performance under pressure. It reinforced Tendulkar’s status as one of cricket’s greatest run makers in the ODI format.
Read More: Sachin Tendulkar turns 52; His three best knocks for MI
Why Maxwell’s masterclass stands above the rest
While every innings mentioned is iconic with unique context and contribution to the sport’s history, Glenn Maxwell’s double century edges out as the greatest ODI 150+ innings for several reasons. His innings came in a high-pressure World Cup match, chasing a crucial target with the team’s top order collapsing disastrously.
The physical struggles Maxwell overcame during his marathon innings add a layer of mental toughness rarely seen on the cricket field. The record-breaking partnership with Pat Cummins for the eighth wicket and the rarity of 200+ scores from a lower-middle-order batter highlight the innings’ extraordinary nature.
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