Top 5 highest individual scores in ODI World Cup history — Image via NZC

The Cricket World Cup is a stage where legends are born, and records are shattered. Among the numerous statistics that fill the annals of cricketing history, individual batting performances often take center stage.

These performances not only propel a team to victory but also etch the names of the players in the collective memory of cricket fans worldwide. In this article, we will explore some of the highest individual scores in Cricket World Cup history and the players who authored these memorable innings.

Highest individual records in World Cup history

Martin Guptill – 237* vs West Indies (2015)

The 2015 Cricket World Cup witnessed one of the most explosive innings ever played in the tournament’s history. Martin Guptill, the prolific New Zealand opener, showcased his firepower against West Indies in the quarter-final. Guptill’s blistering knock of 237* came off just 163 balls, comprising 24 boundaries and 11 colossal sixes.

His strike rate of 145.39 left the opposition in tatters, and New Zealand went on to win the match comfortably. Guptill’s innings not only set a new World Cup record but also established him as one of the most devastating opening batsmen in modern-day cricket.

Chris Gayle – 215 vs Zimbabwe (2015)

The self-proclaimed “Universe Boss,” Chris Gayle, is renowned for his destructive batting prowess, and he showcased it during the 2015 World Cup. In a group-stage encounter against Zimbabwe, Gayle bludgeoned his way to a jaw-dropping 215 runs from just 147 balls.

His innings included 10 boundaries and a staggering 16 sixes, at a strike rate of 146.25. Gayle’s dominant display was instrumental in West Indies posting a mammoth total and eventually securing victory.

Gary Kirsten – 188* vs United Arab Emirates (1996)

South African opener Gary Kirsten’s unbeaten 188* against the United Arab Emirates in the 1996 World Cup is a testament to his class and composure. Batting for 210 minutes and facing 159 balls, Kirsten played an innings filled with elegant strokes and impeccable timing.

His knock included 13 fours and 4 sixes, at a strike rate of 118.23. Kirsten’s innings was instrumental in South Africa’s victory and remains one of the standout performances in World Cup history.

Sourav Ganguly – 183 vs Sri Lanka (1999)

Sourav Ganguly, the former Indian captain, etched his name into World Cup folklore with his iconic innings of 183 against Sri Lanka in the 1999 World Cup. Ganguly’s innings, which came off 158 balls, was a masterclass in strokeplay, featuring 17 boundaries and 7 towering sixes.

His strike rate of 115.82 was impressive, considering the era in which the innings was played. Ganguly’s performance propelled India to victory and is still revered as one of the greatest innings in World Cup history.

Vivian Richards – 181 vs Sri Lanka (1987)

Sir Vivian Richards, one of the greatest cricketers of all time, graced the 1987 World Cup with his sublime batting. In a match against Sri Lanka in Karachi, Richards unleashed his trademark aggression, scoring 181 runs from just 125 balls, with 16 fours and 7 sixes.

Richards’ strike rate of 144.80 was a reflection of his dominance over the opposition bowlers. While West Indies lost the match, Richards’ innings remains etched in the memory of cricket fans as a testament to his sheer brilliance.

The Cricket World Cup has witnessed several high-scoring encounters and breathtaking individual performances over the years. The aforementioned innings by Martin Guptill, Chris Gayle, Gary Kirsten, Sourav Ganguly, and Vivian Richards serve as timeless reminders of the talent and prowess that cricketers bring to the global stage.

These innings not only set records but also inspire generations of aspiring cricketers to push their limits and aim for greatness. They are a testament to the power of talent, determination, and the ability to perform under pressure.

As the Cricket World Cup continues to evolve and produce new heroes, these high scores will always remain a part of cricketing history, a tribute to the players who etched their names in the annals of the sport with their unforgettable performances. In the years to come, we can only wait in anticipation for the next record-breaking innings that will capture the imagination of cricket fans worldwide.