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The discussion about the greatest batters in One Day International (ODI) cricket has been ongoing for decades. With every era producing legends who redefine the game, picking the best among them remains subjective and often sparks debate among fans and experts. While some prioritize consistency and records, others focus on match-winning abilities and impact on the game.
As the cricketing world gears up for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, former India opener Virender Sehwag has joined the conversation by naming his top five ODI batters from the players he played alongside during his international career.
Virender Sehwag names his 5 best ODI batters
Speaking to Cricbuzz, Sehwag revealed his list of the top five ODI batters from his playing era, which included two Indians and three overseas cricketers from South Africa, Pakistan, and the West Indies. He also ranked them based on their impact and performance in ODIs.
1. Virat Kohli (India)
Sehwag picked Kohli as the greatest ODI batter, acknowledging his consistency and match-winning ability. Kohli, who has been a pillar of India’s batting lineup for over a decade, boasts over 13,000 ODI runs at an average of nearly 58, with 50 centuries—the most in ODI history. His ability to chase down targets under pressure makes him a modern-day great.
2. Sachin Tendulkar (India)
At No. 2, Sehwag named the legendary Tendulkar, who remains the highest run-scorer in ODI history. The legendary batter amassed 18,426 runs in 463 ODIs, including 49 centuries. He was the first male batter to score a double century in ODIs and played a crucial role in India’s 2011 World Cup triumph.
3. Inzamam-ul-Haq (Pakistan)
Sehwag placed former Pakistan captain Inzamam at No. 3. A dominant force in the 1990s and 2000s, Inzamam scored 11,739 runs in 378 ODIs, averaging 39.52 with 10 centuries. He was known for his composure under pressure and match-winning ability in crucial situations.
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4. AB de Villiers (South Africa)
At No. 4, Sehwag picked De Villiers, the former South African captain renowned for his innovative strokeplay and aggressive batting. De Villiers scored 9,577 runs in 228 ODIs at an incredible strike rate of 101.09, with 25 centuries. His ability to play 360-degree shots made him one of the most feared batters in world cricket.
5. Chris Gayle (West Indies)
West Indian powerhouse Gayle took the No. 5 spot in Sehwag’s list. Known for his destructive batting, Gayle smashed 10,480 runs in 301 ODIs, including 25 centuries. His ability to single-handedly win matches and his record of the fastest ODI double century (215 off 147 balls in the 2015 World Cup) solidified his place among the greats.
Future generations must carry forward the legacy
With legends like Tendulkar and Inzamam retired and modern greats like Kohli setting new standards, the responsibility now lies with the next generation to continue this legacy. Players such as Shubman Gill, and Travis Head have shown promise and will be expected to uphold the high standards set by their predecessors.
