Five Highest Team Total in ODI

One Day International (ODI) cricket has seen some remarkable batting displays over the years, resulting in some jaw-dropping team totals. 

These high-scoring matches have thrilled fans and showcased the evolution of the game. In this article, we’ll explore the five highest team totals in ODI cricket history, each of which represents a memorable moment in the sport’s history.

1) England – 498/4 vs Netherlands – 2022

In June 2022, England scored a record-breaking 498/4 against the Netherlands in the first ODI of a three-match series at the VRA Ground in Amstelveen. England’s total was the highest in ODI history, surpassing their previous record of 481/6.

England’s innings was built on centuries from Jos Buttler (162 not out), Phil Salt (122), and Dawid Malan (125). Buttler and Salt put on 222 for the first wicket, and Malan added 124 for the second with Buttler. England also benefited from some poor Dutch bowling, with their bowlers conceding 47 wides and 24 no-balls.

The Netherlands were bowled out for 266 in reply, losing by 232 runs. It was England’s largest-ever winning margin in an ODI match. 

2) England – 481/6 vs Australia – 2018

On June 19, 2018, at Trent Bridge, Nottingham, England unleashed a batting onslaught like never before against their arch-rivals, Australia. England’s top-order batsmen, led by Jonny Bairstow and Alex Hales, set the tone with explosive innings. Bairstow’s 139 off 92 balls and Hales’ 147 off 92 balls propelled England to a colossal total of 481/6 in their allotted 50 overs.

This record-breaking total left Australia with an insurmountable target. England’s innings were characterized by power-hitting, precision placement, and innovative stroke play, reflecting the modern era of aggressive ODI batting.

In response, Australia faced a daunting target of 482 runs but could manage only 239/10 in their 50 overs. England’s bowlers and fielders put in a solid performance to secure a convincing victory by 242 runs.

3) England – 444/3 vs Pakistan – 2016

Just two years before their 481/6 onslaught against Australia, England displayed their dominance in white-ball cricket with a remarkable performance against Pakistan at the same venue. On August 30, 2016, England amassed 444/3, which was the highest ODI total at that time.

This batting spectacle featured Alex Hales’ explosive 171, Joe Root’s classy 85, and Jos Buttler’s unbeaten 90. England’s aggressive approach and fearless hitting were on full display, showcasing their proficiency in the format and setting a new benchmark for team totals.

4) Sri Lanka – 443/9 vs Netherlands – 2006

In a memorable ODI match in 2006, Sri Lanka unleashed a batting juggernaut against the Netherlands. On July 4, 2006, at Amstelveen, Sri Lanka posted a colossal total of 443/9 in their 50 overs. The standout performer was Sanath Jayasuriya, who played a scintillating innings, scoring 157 runs off just 104 balls.

His explosive batting, combined with Upul Tharanga’s century (109 runs), set the stage for this imposing total. Sri Lanka’s aggressive approach and superb stroke play showcased their dominance in limited-overs cricket, leaving the Netherlands with a virtually insurmountable target. This match remains a testament to Sri Lanka’s batting prowess and is etched in ODI cricket history.

5) South Africa – 438/9 vs Australia – 2006

This ODI is often referred to as the “438 game” and is one of the most iconic matches in cricket history. On March 12, 2006, at the Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg, South Africa and Australia engaged in an unforgettable contest. After being put into bat, South Africa produced an astonishing batting display, scoring 438/9 in 50 overs.

Captain Graeme Smith led from the front with 90, while Herschelle Gibbs played a scintillating knock of 175 off 111 balls. The Proteas’ remarkable comeback victory by one run added to the match’s legend, making it an enduring memory in ODI cricket history.