Top 10 ODI Innings of the Century
When ODI cricket started off in 1971 in Melbourne Cricket Ground, many expected it to be a format which would be played exclusively as a stress-reliever from the relatively "slow" Test cricket. However, 48 years down the line, the ODI format has become one of the most popular formats in the game of cricket.
We are now in the 21st century, and ICC has introduced lots of changes to the format, most of them favoring the batsmen. As a result, we've seen the willow wielders showcase some of the best performances at the most opportune times.
In this article, we look at the 10 most memorable ODI innings that were played in the 21st century. The innings considered here are based on the level of pressure, the importance of the tournament and the nature of rivalry.
#10 Adam Gilchrist 149 vs Australia (Final, ICC World Cup at Bridgetown, Apr 28, 2007)
For four years, Ricky Ponting held the record for the highest score in an ICC World Cup final for his 140* against India and it was broken by his teammate Adam Gilchrist during the 2007 tournament between Australia and Sri Lanka. The innings which included 8 sixes and 13 boundaries, virtually pushed Sri Lanka out of the finals and made it a one-sided battle.
Lasith Malinga, Chaminda Vas, and Muttiah Muralitharan, all of whom were brilliant in the tournament, were dispatched to all parts of the crowd. Of the 16 centuries by Gilly, this has to go down as his best, taking into consideration the immensity of the situation and the significance of the tournament.
The No.10 slot goes to this marvelous innings by Adam Gilchrist, which helped Australia to bag their fourth World Cup title.