One Day Internationals (ODIs) stand as a thrilling format in cricket. It demands a unique blend of power-hitting and strategic batting. In this arena, the concept of "highest average" takes center stage, highlighting the consistency and brilliance of batsmen. Batsmen play a crucial role in determining the outcome of a match, whether by chasing down large totals or carefully constructing an innings. Among the plethora of talented Indian batsmen, this article explores the highest average in ODI. This also highlights the consistent performers who have made their mark in cricketing history.

Top Contenders for the Highest Average in ODI

Shifting the focus to India, the nation boasts a rich cricketing heritage. It also has produced some phenomenal batsmen who have carved their names in the record books. Here, we explore the top contenders for the highest average in ODI, keeping the aforementioned 20-innings threshold in mind:

Top 10 Highest Average in ODI

1. Shubman Gill: The Rising Star at the Helm

At the forefront of this prestigious list of the highest average in ODI sits the young prodigy, Shubman Gill. With a remarkable average of 61.37, he has established himself as a force to be reckoned with. Despite having played only 44 matches, his consistency has been phenomenal. He amassed over 2,271 runs with 6 centuries and 13 fifties under his belt. Gill's elegant stroke-making and ability to adapt to different situations make him a vital cog in the Indian batting line-up.

2. Virat Kohli: The Stalwart of Indian Cricket

Virat Kohli is a legend in his own right. He occupies the second position for the highest average in ODI with an astounding average of 58.67. Throughout his remarkable career spanning 292 matches, he has scored an impressive 13,848 runs, with 50 centuries and 72 fifties to his name. Kohli's aggressive batting style and relentless pursuit of runs have made him a formidable challenge for bowlers worldwide.

3. Lokesh Rahul: The Consummate Player

Lokesh Rahul demonstrates his skill at number three, with an average of 50.35. In his 75-match career, he has scored over 2,820 runs. This includes 7 centuries and 18 fifties. Rahul's versatility and adaptability to different situations make him a valuable asset for the Indian team.

4. MS Dhoni: The Finishing Master

The ever-reliable MS Dhoni follows closely with an average of 50.23. His exceptional finishing skills and ability to guide India to victory in numerous nail-biting encounters have cemented his place as one of the greatest finishers in the history of cricket. Dhoni's 347-match career yielded over 10,599 runs. It included the highest individual score by an Indian batsman in ODIs - an unbeaten 183.

5. Shreyas Iyer: The Emerging Talent

Shreyas Iyer secures the fifth spot for the highest average in ODI, with an average of 49.64. He represents the new generation of Indian batsmen. In his 59-match career, he has scored more than 2,383 runs, with a career-best of an unbeaten 128. Iyer's stylish stroke-play and capacity to score rapidly make him a crucial part of the middle order.

6. Rohit Sharma: The Hitman

Rohit Sharma, known as the "Hitman," closely follows with an average of 49.12. He is widely popular for his explosive batting style. Sharma has scored over 10,709 runs in his 262-match career, with a massive individual score of 264. Rohit Sharma's strength lies in his ability to clear the ropes with ease. His powerful swing and precise timing allow him to score boundaries at a rapid pace.

7. Ambati Rayudu: The Dependable Rock

Ambati Rayudu is known as the dependable middle-order batsman. He occupies the seventh spot for the highest average in ODI, with an average of 47.05. With 55 matches under his belt, he has scored over 1,694 runs. Rayudu's role in the team is to provide stability and build partnerships during the middle overs. His technique is sound, and he can rotate the strike effectively while also finding the boundary when the opportunity arises.

8. Sachin Tendulkar: The Master Blaster

The legendary cricketer, Sachin Tendulkar, occupies the eighth position with an average of 44.83. With 463 matches under his belt, he scored an incredible 18,426 runs. This solidified his position as one of the greatest batsmen of all time. Tendulkar's batting was a masterclass in technique, timing, and temperament.

9. Shikhar Dhawan: The Elegant Left-hander

Shikhar Dhawan is the left-handed opener. Dhawan finds himself at number nine for the highest average in ODI with an average of 44.11. In his 167-match career, he has scored more than 6,793 runs, with a career-best knock of 143. Dhawan's strength lies in his elegant stroke-making and ability to score boundaries early on in the innings.

10. Ishan Kishan: The Young Prodigy

Ishan Kishan, the young wicket-keeper batsman, completes the list with a promising average of 42.4. Despite having played only 27 matches, he has already shown glimpses of his immense potential. Kishan's batting style is characterized by his innovative stroke play and fearless approach.

Understanding Beyond the Highest Average in ODI

It's crucial to recognize that a high average solely indicates a player's consistency in scoring runs. Other crucial factors come into play when evaluating a batsman's overall contribution:

Strike Rate:

This reflects the speed at which a batsman scores runs (runs scored per 100 balls faced). A high strike rate alongside a healthy average indicates a player's ability to score quickly and keep the scoreboard ticking.

Context:

The context in which runs are scored is vital. Scoring runs against strong bowling attacks on challenging pitches holds greater significance compared to scoring against weaker opposition on flat batting surfaces.

Impact:

A player's ability to convert starts into big scores and contribute to winning partnerships plays a crucial role in team success.

Conclusion

The pursuit of the highest average in ODIs reflects a batsman's dedication, skill, and temperament. Shubman Gill's current position as the leading player for the highest average in ODI among Indian players is a promising sign. While the aforementioned players have made their mark in the record books, the future of Indian cricket looks promising with the rise of young talents like Shubman Gill. As the game evolves, it will be interesting to see how these players adapt their skills and carry on the legacy of Indian ODI batting.

Highest Average in Odi: Batting Records in Test Matches