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In the dynamic realm of men’s One Day International (ODI) cricket in 2023, bowlers showcased their mastery with exceptional performances, leaving an indelible mark on the cricketing landscape.
Shaping the game: Unraveling the impact of individual brilliance in ODI Cricket 2023
The year witnessed several extraordinary bowling spells that captured the essence of skill, precision, and strategic brilliance. From sublime swing bowling to blistering pace and cunning spin, the bowlers exhibited a diverse array of techniques to dismantle opposition line-ups. These remarkable spells not only altered the course of matches but also highlighted the impact individual brilliance can have in the limited-overs format. As we delve into the narratives of these bowling feats, each spell unfolds as a testament to the bowlers’ ability to shape the game and etch their names in the annals of ODI cricket in 2023.
Top 5 Best bowling spells in Men’s ODIs for 2023:
1. Mohammad Shami (7/57 in 9.5 overs in ODI World Cup 2023 Semifinal against New Zealand):
In a pivotal ODI World Cup 2023 semifinal clash against New Zealand at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium on November 15, 2023, Mohammed Shami etched his name in history. Shami’s impeccable spell saw him become the first Indian bowler to pick seven wickets in an ODI. With India defending a massive 398-run total, Shami’s early dismissals, including those of Devon Conway and Rachin Ravindra, set the tone. Despite a resilient partnership by Daryl Mitchell and Kane Williamson, Shami’s second spell dismantled the Kiwi lineup, securing a seventy-run victory for India.
2. Mohammad Siraj (6/21 in Asia Cup Final 2023 against Sri Lanka):
In the Asia Cup 2023 Final on September 17, 2023, Mohammed Siraj delivered a spellbinding performance against Sri Lanka at R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. The Hyderabad-born pacer wreaked havoc, taking six wickets for just 21 runs in seven overs. Siraj’s venomous bowling, particularly in his second over, saw him dismiss Pathum Nissanka, Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka and Dhananjaya de Silva. His relentless accuracy and swing earned him a historic 6/21, the best bowling spell against Sri Lanka in ODI history.
3. Wanindu Hasaranga (6/24 in ICC ODI World Cup 2023 Qualifier against UAE):
In an ICC CWC 2023 Qualifier against United Arab Emirates (UAE) at the Queen Sports Park Club in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, leg-spinner Wanindu Hasaranga delivered a masterclass. Hasaranga’s mesmerizing spell of 6/24 in eight overs showcased his exceptional skills. He dismantled the UAE batting lineup, consistently troubling the batters. His variations, especially the googly, proved too much for UAE as they went from 82/1 to a dismal total of 180/10. Hasaranga’s impactful performance marked his best-ever in ODIs.
Also READ: Top 5 highest ODI run scorers in 2023
4. Joshua Little of Ireland (6/36 against Zimbabwe in 2nd ODI):
In the 2nd ODI against Zimbabwe in Harare on December 15, Joshua Little‘s sensational bowling performance left an indelible mark. Little picked six wickets for 36 runs, including crucial dismissals like Tinashe Kamunhukamwe and Sikandar Raza. His skillful execution led to Zimbabwe being restricted to only 166 runs. This remarkable spell by Little stands as the best-ever performance by an Ireland cricketer in ODI history, marking his maiden five-wicket haul.
5. Ish Sodhi for New Zealand (6/39 against Bangladesh in 2nd ODI):
In the 2nd ODI against Bangladesh in Mirpur on September 23, Ish Sodhi played a pivotal role in New Zealand’s victory. Bangladesh had a promising start, but Sodhi’s magical spell sparked a collapse, reducing them from 60/1 to 92/5. Sodhi dismissed key batters, including Tamim Iqbal and Soumya Sarkar, finishing with career-best figures of 6/39. His exceptional performance helped New Zealand secure their first victory in Bangladesh in nearly 15 years.
* only full-member nations included in this list
