Imagine smashing 200 runs in a one-day cricket match? Mind-blowing, right? Only a select few legends have achieved this remarkable feat in ODIs, joining the prestigious double century club. Let’s take a celebratory swing at these batting maestros!
Rohit Sharma: The Undisputed King of Sixes (3 Double Centuries)
Leading the charge is the Indian Hitman, Rohit Sharma. The Hitman needs no introduction. With a staggering three double centuries, Rohit Sharma reigns supreme in this elite club. His highest score, a mind-boggling 264, against Sri Lanka in 2014, remains the benchmark for ODI brutality. Whether raining sixes or carving boundaries, Rohit redefines batting entertainment.
Martin Guptill: The Master of Controlled Aggression (1 Double Century)
New Zealand’s Martin Guptill unleashed a different kind of magic in his unbeaten 237* against West Indies in 2015. His knock wasn’t just about brute force, but a calculated display of power and finesse. Guptill’s innings proved that elegance can coexist with explosiveness.
Virender Sehwag: The Fearless Entertainer (1 Double Century)
Remember the 2011 World Cup? Sehwag’s 219 against West Indies was a whirlwind of fearless hitting. Sixes soared, boundaries were demolished, and the opposition was left bewildered. Sehwag’s innings embodied the essence of attacking cricket, reminding us that sometimes, audacity is the key to glory.
Chris Gayle: The Universe Boss Delivers (1 Double Century)
The mere mention of Chris Gayle evokes images of towering sixes and effortless power. His 215 against Zimbabwe in 2015 was no different. Pure entertainment personified, Gayle’s knock had everything: the nonchalant flicks for six, the dismissive pulls over midwicket, and the trademark Gayle celebration.
Fakhar Zaman: The Pakistani Powerhouse (1 Double Century)
Fakhar Zaman’s unbeaten 210* against Zimbabwe in 2018 was a brutal display of raw power. The Pakistani opener launched into the bowling from the get-go, treating the Zimbabwean attack with disdain. His innings was a reminder of the sheer devastation a batsman in top form can inflict.
Pathum Nissanka: Sri Lanka’s Rising Star (1 Double Century)
In 2024, Pathum Nissanka etched his name in history with a magnificent 210* against Afghanistan. The young Sri Lankan opener showcased his talent to the world, playing with maturity and composure beyond his years. His innings was a blend of elegance and power, marking him as a player to watch out for in the future.
Ishan Kishan: India’s Explosive Left-hander (1 Double Century)
Ishan Kishan’s 210 against Bangladesh in 2022 was a masterclass in left-handed strokeplay. The Indian youngster took the attack to the Bangladeshi bowlers from the outset, peppering the boundaries with his clean hitting. His innings was a testament to his aggressive approach and natural talent.
Shubman Gill: India’s Young Gun (1 Double Century)
Shubman Gill’s elegant 208 against New Zealand in 2023 was a coming-of-age innings for the young Indian batsman. His strokeplay was a delight to watch, combining classical timing with power hitting. This knock announced Gill’s arrival on the big stage and marked him as a future star of Indian cricket.
Glenn Maxwell: The Big Show from Down Under (1 Double Century)
Glenn Maxwell’s unbeaten 201* against Afghanistan in 2023 was pure entertainment. The Australian all-rounder unleashed his trademark 360-degree hitting, leaving the Afghan bowlers clueless. His innings was a reminder of his destructive potential and ability to single-handedly win matches.
Sachin Tendulkar: The Master Blaster Bows Out in Style (1 Double Century)
Sachin Tendulkar’s 200* against South Africa in 2010 was a fitting farewell to the legendary batsman. The Little Master rolled back the years with a sublime display of batting, reminding everyone why he was called the God of Cricket. His innings was a perfect blend of technique, timing, and class, etching his name forever in the history books.
These double centuries are not just statistics; they are stories of individual brilliance, etched in the annals of ODI cricket. They inspire future generations and leave fans in awe of the incredible feats achieved on the 22 yards. So, the next time you witness a batsman nearing 200, remember, they are on the verge of joining an exclusive club of batting legends!