Introduction
One Day International (ODI) cricket is a dynamic format that has witnessed many legends, and scoring 4000 runs in ODIs is a testament to a batsman’s consistency and prowess. In this blog, we’ll explore the journeys of cricketers who sprinted to 4000 ODI runs, setting records and leaving a mark on the sport’s history.
1. Hasim Amla (SA)
- Opposition: India
- Ground: Durban
- Match Date: 8 Dec 2013
- Debut: 9 Mar 2008
- Time Taken: 5 years and 274 days
- Matches: 84
- Innings: 81
- ODI Number: 3443
Hashim Amla, the South African batting maestro, blazed a trail to 4000 ODI runs in just under six years. Known for his grace and consistency, Amla’s journey began on 9th March 2008. On 8th December 2013, during a match against India in Durban (ODI # 3443), he etched his name in the record books with this remarkable achievement.
2. Babar Azam (PAK)
- Opposition: Australia
- Ground: Lahore
- Match Date: 29 Mar 2022
- Debut: 31 May 2015
- Time Taken: 6 years and 302 days
- Matches: 84
- Innings: 82
- ODI Number: 4379
Babar Azam, Pakistan’s modern-day batting sensation, showcased his incredible talent by reaching 4000 ODI runs in just under seven years. Debuting on 31st May 2015, Babar accomplished this milestone on 29th March 2022, during a match against Australia in Lahore (ODI # 4379). His elegant strokeplay and consistency have drawn comparisons to the greats of the game.
3. Vivian Richards (WI)
- Opposition: New Zealand
- Ground: Albion
- Match Date: 14 Apr 1985
- Debut: 7 Jun 1975
- Time Taken: 9 years and 311 days
- Matches: 96
- Innings: 88
- ODI Number: 326
Sir Vivian Richards, the legendary West Indian batsman, demonstrated his longevity and prowess by reaching 4000 ODI runs in nearly a decade. Debuting on 7th June 1975, Richards achieved this significant milestone on 14th April 1985, during a match against New Zealand in Albion (ODI # 326). His aggressive and fearless batting style set the stage for a new era.
4. Shai Hope (WI)
- Opposition: Pakistan
- Ground: Multan
- Match Date: 8 Jun 2022
- Debut: 16 Nov 2016
- Time Taken: 5 years and 204 days
- Matches: 93
- Innings: 88
- ODI Number: 4401
Shai Hope, representing the West Indies, reached 4000 ODI runs in just over five years. His journey began on 16th November 2016, and on 8th June 2022, during a match against Pakistan in Multan (ODI # 4401), Hope solidified his status as a pivotal figure in the West Indian lineup.
5. Joe Root (ENG)
- Opposition: West Indies
- Ground: Southampton
- Match Date: 29 Sep 2017
- Debut: 11 Jan 2013
- Time Taken: 4 years and 261 days
- Matches: 97
- Innings: 91
- ODI Number: 3918
Joe Root, the versatile English batsman, reached 4000 ODI runs in under five years. His journey commenced on 11th January 2013, and on 29th September 2017, during a match against the West Indies in Southampton (ODI # 3918), Root achieved this significant milestone. His sound technique and adaptability have been invaluable for England.
6. Virat Kohli (IND)
- Opposition: England
- Ground: Ranchi
- Match Date: 19 Jan 2013
- Debut: 18 Aug 2008
- Time Taken: 4 years and 154 days
- Matches: 96
- Innings: 93
- ODI Number: 3322
Virat Kohli, the modern Indian cricketing legend, reached 4000 ODI runs in just over four years. Debuting on 18th August 2008, Kohli achieved this remarkable feat on 19th January 2013, during a match against England in Ranchi (ODI # 3322). His extraordinary consistency and masterful strokeplay have set him apart as one of the finest contemporary batsmen.
7. David Warner (AUS)
- Opposition: Bangladesh
- Ground: The Oval
- Match Date: 5 Jun 2017
- Debut: 18 Jan 2009
- Time Taken: 8 years and 138 days
- Matches: 95
- Innings: 93
- ODI Number: 3879
David Warner, the explosive Australian opener, reached 4000 ODI runs in just over eight years. Debuting on 18th January 2009, Warner achieved this significant milestone on 5th June 2017, during a match against Bangladesh at The Oval (ODI # 3879). His aggressive and fearless batting style has made him a formidable force in limited-overs cricket.
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Conclusion
These players not only reached 4000 runs in ODIs but did so in record timeframes, leaving an indelible mark on the world of cricket. Their journeys are a testament to their dedication and skill, inspiring future generations of cricketers worldwide.
