Top 4 ODI Matches of modern era

There have been thousands of ODI matches played between the 10 Test-playing nations with permanent ODI status. While some matches have been ordinary, there are many that have really been exciting both for spectators and players. Here are the top 4 Greatest Cricket ODI Matches of modern era.

South Africa vs Australia, Johannesburg, (March 12, 2006)

This was a nightmare match for the bowlers of both sides. They together conceded more than 800 runs in two innings. Batting first, the mighty Aussies compiled a world record 434, losing 4 wickets in 50 overs. Ricky Ponting scored a massive 164 and it seemed like curtains were down for the Proteas. But Herschelle Gibbs and Graeme Smith, who scored 175 and 90 respectively, helped South Africa break the then highest team total and register the finest victory in an ODI match. They won by 1 wicket sparing a ball as well.

India vs England, Lord’s, (July 13, 2002)

One of the best one day internationals played at the Lord’s was the final of the NatWest Series between India and England in 2002. Centuries from both Marcus Trescothick and Nasser Hussain led England to a record 325 for 5. But two young Indian batsmen, Yuvraj Singh and Mohammed Kaif build a brilliant partnership after losing the likes of Ganguly, Sehwag, Tendulkar and Dravid. India won the match by 2 wickets.

India vs Sri Lanka, Rajkot, (Dec 15, 2009)

If the difference between victory and defeat is only of 3 runs, in a match where both teams have together scored over 800 runs, it surely deserves a mention. The India vs Sri Lanka 1st ODI at Rajkot in 2009 was such an encounter. Batting first, India scored 414. The Sri Lankan batsmen did not lose their nerve and produced cricketing skills that India seemed to be staring at the jaws of defeat. However, the visitors were bundled out for 411 runs.

New Zealand vs Australia, Hamilton, (Feb 20, 2007)

Arch-rivals Australia and New Zealand battled it out in Hamilton in 2007. The powerful Australian squad scored 346/5 in their 50 overs. Mathew Hayden’s unbeaten knock of 181 had to be given the credit especially when no other batsman could capitalize against a mediocre Kiwi bowling. A heroic display from Craig McMillan (117) and Brendon McCullum (86) took their side to an emphatic 1-wicket victory making a mockery of the Australian bowling.