One Day International (ODI) cricket has been one of the most popular formats of the game since its beginning in 1971. With only 50 overs available, batters must combine skill, patience, and smart shot selection to succeed. In such a competitive format, individual consistency becomes extremely important, especially when players are judged through ICC rankings. Holding the top position is a sign of dominance, but staying there for years is even more difficult. The record for most days as No. 1 ODI batter highlights the rare cricketers who performed at the highest level for long periods. These players scored runs in different conditions, against the best bowlers, and under constant pressure. This article focuses on the legends who achieved the most days as No. 1 ODI batter, showing why they stand above the rest in ODI history.
Table of Contents
List of 5 Players with Most Days as No. 1 ODI Batter
5. Babar Azam – A Modern ODI Icon
Babar Azam represents the modern generation of ODI batters and has become one of Pakistan’s greatest-ever players. Known for his elegant stroke play and calm approach, Babar’s rise to the top was built on consistency rather than aggressive power-hitting. He reached the No. 1 spot in ICC ODI rankings in 2021, surpassing several established stars.
Babar spent a total of 1,359 days at the top, earning his place among players with the most days as No 1 ODI batter in history. In an era where competition is intense and rankings change quickly, maintaining that position for so long is remarkable. He performed consistently against strong teams and weaker sides alike, showing maturity beyond his age.
His ability to adapt to different pitches, whether slow Asian tracks or fast overseas conditions, played a key role in his success. Babar’s strong average and frequent match-winning knocks made him a dependable player for Pakistan. His journey proves that classical batting still thrives in modern ODI cricket.
| Matches | 100+ |
| Runs | 6,500+ |
| Batting Average | ~53 |
| Centuries | 19+ |
| Days at No. 1 | 1,359 |
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4. Michael Bevan – Australia’s Ultimate Finisher
Michael Bevan is remembered as one of the finest finishers ODI cricket has ever seen. Playing during Australia’s golden era, Bevan built his reputation on calmness, smart shot selection, and an unmatched ability to finish games. He was not flashy, but he was extremely effective.
Bevan spent 1,361 days at the top of the ICC ODI batting rankings, placing him among players with the most days as No. 1 ODI batter. His long stay at the summit shows how consistent he was during his career. Unlike many top batters, Bevan often batted under pressure during run chases, making his achievements even more impressive.
He rarely threw his wicket away and valued his innings more than personal milestones. This approach helped him maintain a very high batting average throughout his career. Bevan’s legacy proves that reliability and game awareness are just as important as aggression in ODI cricket.
| Matches | 196 |
| Runs | 6,912 |
| Batting Average | 53.58 |
| Centuries | 6 |
| Days at No. 1 | 1,361 |
3. Virat Kohli – India’s ODI Run Machine
Virat Kohli is one of the most dominant ODI batters of all time. His aggressive mindset, unmatched fitness, and hunger for runs have set him apart from his peers. Kohli’s ability to score runs in all conditions has made him a nightmare for bowlers across the world.
He spent 1,547 days as the top-ranked ODI batter, ranking high among players with the most days as No. 1 ODI batter. What makes his record special is that he reached the No. 1 position on multiple occasions, proving his long-term consistency. Even after brief dips in form, Kohli managed to bounce back strongly.
With over 14,000 ODI runs and more than 50 centuries, Kohli’s numbers speak for themselves. His reputation as the best chaser in ODI history further strengthens his status. Kohli’s dominance defined an entire era of ODI cricket.
| Matches | 290+ |
| Runs | 14,000+ |
| Batting Average | ~58 |
| Centuries | 50+ |
| Days at No. 1 | 1,547 |
2. Brian Lara – Caribbean Brilliance
Brian Lara’s place on this list highlights his greatness beyond Test cricket. While often celebrated for his Test records, Lara was also a phenomenal ODI batter. He played in a highly competitive era alongside legends like Sachin Tendulkar and Ricky Ponting.
Lara spent 2,079 days as the No. 1 ODI batter, making him one of the players with the most days as No. 1 ODI batter in history. His long stay at the top showed his dominance and ability to outperform the best players of his generation. Lara combined elegance with controlled aggression, making his batting a joy to watch.
He could change the course of a match single-handedly, especially when West Indies needed inspiration. Beyond statistics, Lara’s confidence and flair inspired a generation of cricketers. His impact on ODI cricket remains significant even today.
| Matches | 299 |
| Runs | 10,405 |
| Batting Average | 40.48 |
| Centuries | 19 |
| Days at No. 1 | 2,079 |
1. Viv Richards – The Original ODI Superstar
Sir Viv Richards sits comfortably at the top of this list. He was not just a greatest batter; he revolutionized ODI cricket. At a time when scoring rates were low and batters played cautiously, Richards introduced fearless attacking cricket.
Richards holds the record for 2,306 days at No. 1, the highest among players with the most days as No. 1 ODI batter. His dominance was unmatched, and bowlers around the world feared facing him. What makes his achievement even more impressive is the era he played in, with limited protective gear and tougher pitches.
His strike rate of around 90 was extraordinary for his time and set new standards for ODI batting. Richards laid the foundation for modern aggressive batting in limited-overs cricket. His influence can still be seen in today’s game, making him a true ODI legend.
| Matches | 187 |
| Runs | 6,721 |
| Batting Average | 47.00 |
| Strike Rate | ~90 |
| Days at No. 1 | 2,306 |
FAQs
1. What does most days as No. 1 ODI batter mean?
It refers to the total number of days a player has held the top position in the ICC ODI batting rankings. It shows long-term consistency and dominance in ODI cricket.
2. Who has the most days as No. 1 ODI batter in history?
Sir Viv Richards holds the record for the most days as No. 1 ODI batter, spending 2,306 days at the top of the ICC ODI batting rankings.
3. Why is staying No. 1 in ODI rankings so difficult?
ODI rankings change often due to form, injuries, team schedules, and strong competition. To achieve the most days as No. 1 ODI batter, a player must score runs consistently across different conditions and opponents.
4. Are current players likely to break this record?
Modern players face tougher competition and packed schedules, making it difficult. While players like Babar Azam have achieved many days at the top, breaking the record for the most days as No. 1 ODI batter remains a major challenge.