Top Five Powerplay Scores in ODIs
In ODI cricket, the Powerplay is a crucial phase that sets the tone for the entire game. It consists of two segments: the mandatory first ten overs of fielding restrictions and an additional Powerplay between overs 11 to 40.
The Powerplay is pivotal for both batting and bowling sides. For the batting team, it offers an opportunity to accumulate runs quickly, exploiting the gaps in the field. On the other hand, the bowling side aims to take wickets and stem the run flow during this phase.
The effectiveness of teams in utilizing the Powerplay often determines the outcome of ODI matches, making it a fundamental aspect of the game.
Here is a list of 5 occasions where powerplay was used at its best and a team dominated the fixture since the beginning.
1) New Zealand – 118 (8.2 overs) vs Sri Lanka, Christchurch, 2015
In a blistering display of power-hitting, New Zealand rattled the cricketing world when they scored a remarkable 118 runs in just 8.2 overs against Sri Lanka at Christchurch in 2015. This explosive inning showcased the Kiwi’s aggressive approach to the game.
The attack was led by Martin Guptill (93 off 30) and Tom Latham (17 off 20). Martin Guptill unleashed a relentless assault on the Sri Lankan bowlers. McCullum himself set the tone with a breathtaking strike rate of 310.
This record-breaking innings was a testament to the team’s ability to adapt to modern T20 cricket and remains one of the most memorable moments in the sport’s history.
2) Australia – 118 (10 overs) vs New Zealand, Dharamsala, 2023
This time Kiwis were on the receiving end during a fixture of World Cup 2023. Australia’s opening batsmen, David Warner (81 off 65) and Travis Head (109 pff 67) were in devastating form, both scoring half-centuries off just 28 and 25 balls respectively.
They punished the New Zealand bowlers with a flurry of boundaries and sixes and took the game away from them early. The match was a high-scoring thriller, and it was a fitting occasion for Australia to set a new record. It was also a reminder of the excitement and drama that the ODI World Cup can produce.
3) New Zealand – 116 (10 overs) vs England, Wellington, 2015
In a thrilling display of power-packed cricket, New Zealand scored 116 runs in just 10 overs against England in the 2015 ODI World Cup match at Wellington. The Kiwi batsmen unleashed an onslaught, setting a daunting target for their opponents.
Led by Brendon McCullum, the team exhibited their aggressive brand of cricket, with McCullum himself leading the charge with a blazing 77 off 25 balls at a strike rate of 308. It was an easy win for the Kiwis as the fixture was a low-scoring game and English bowlers were completely out of track.
4) West Indies – 114 (10 overs) vs India, Port of Spain, 2019
The West Indies openers, Chris Gayle (72 off 41) and Evin Lewis (43 off 29) were in blistering form and Gayle scored his half century in just 24 balls.
They punished the Indian bowlers with a flurry of boundaries and sixes and took the game away from them early. However, the efforts of both batters went in vain because when it came to the bowling unit of the West Indies, they were unable to stop the Indian batting lineup from scoring a win.
5) Australia – 112 (10 overs) vs India, Vishakapatnam, 2023
Another ferocious performance by Australian batters during the ODI World Cup 2023 at Vishakapatnam. David Warner (56 off 34) and Mitchell Marsh (96 off 54) were in scintillating form, putting on 78 runs for the first wicket off just 49 balls.
At number 3, Steve Smith also made his contribution by scoring 74 off 61 at a strike rate of 121.31. The Australian batsmen punished the Indian bowlers with their aggressive strokeplay, and the Indian bowlers were unable to find a way to stop them.