Most matches for India in ODIs – Virat Kohli reaches 300, Rohit Sharma getting close

Yesterday at 08:07 PM

India’s revered former skipper Virat Kohli played his 300th ODI for India on the weekend as Rohit Sharma’s side eased past New Zealand to finish top of Group A in the ICC Champions Trophy.

It was a remarkable milestone and one that not many players ever reach. But how exactly does it compare to other Indian legends?

Let’s look and see who are the most capped Indian ODI players of all time.

9. Anil Kumble – 269 ODIs

Anil Kumble, India’s highest wicket-taker in Test cricket, was a formidable presence in the ODI format as well. Playing 269 matches over an illustrious career spanning 17 years, leg-spinner Kumble was known for his accuracy and ability to pick wickets at crucial junctures.

His 337 ODI wickets remain the highest for an Indian spinner, and he was a vital part of India’s bowling attack through the 1990s and early 2000s.

8. Rohit Sharma – 271 ODIs

Currently leading India in the ICC Champions Trophy, Rohit Sharma has been a key player for the team since his debut in 2007. Known for his elegant stroke play and the ability to score big hundreds, Rohit has already amassed multiple double centuries in ODIs.

With his 271 ODIs and counting, he is likely to climb higher on this list before he retires.

7. Virat Kohli – 300 ODIs

The man of the moment, Virat Kohli, has been India’s batting mainstay for over a decade. With an impeccable record in run-chases and the ability to dominate bowlers across all conditions, Kohli has redefined consistency in ODI cricket.

His 300th match was a testament to his longevity and fitness, and with several years still ahead of him, he could very well finish even higher on this list. If India make it into the final of the on-going Champions Trophy he will already have moved himself up to sixth on the list.

Also read: Highest scores for India in ODIs

6. Yuvraj Singh – 301 ODIs

A true match-winner, Yuvraj Singh was one of India’s most stylish and destructive batsmen. With 301 ODIs to his name, Yuvraj was the backbone of India’s middle order for years. His performances in the 2011 World Cup, where he was named Player of the Tournament, are legendary.

Apart from his batting, Yuvraj's handy left-arm spin provided India with crucial breakthroughs over the years. He was also an excellent fielder.

5. Sourav Ganguly – 308 ODIs

One of India’s most influential captains, Sourav Ganguly played 308 ODIs and was instrumental in shaping modern Indian cricket. His fearless leadership, aggressive batting, and ability to forge strong partnerships at the top of the order made him a standout player.

With over 11,000 runs in ODIs, he remains one of India’s most prolific batsmen.

4. Mohammad Azharuddin – 334 ODIs

Azharuddin was one of India’s most stylish and wristy batsmen. Playing 334 ODIs, he led India in three World Cups and was known for his exceptional fielding and ability to accelerate in the middle overs.

His wristy flicks and effortless shot-making made him a fan favourite, and his contribution to Indian cricket remains significant.

3. Rahul Dravid – 340 ODIs

Known as ‘The Wall,’ Rahul Dravid was a beacon of stability in the Indian batting lineup. With 340 ODIs to his name, Dravid was often India‘s saviour in tough situations.

While primarily known for his Test exploits, he adapted brilliantly to the ODI format, even keeping wickets for a while to provide balance to the team. His adaptability and technique made him one of India’s most dependable and enduring players.

2. MS Dhoni – 347 ODIs

Arguably the best finisher in the history of ODI cricket, MS Dhoni captained India to multiple ICC trophies, including the 2011 World Cup.

Playing 347 ODIs, Dhoni's calm demeanour, exceptional wicketkeeping, and ability to control run chases made him a legend of the game. His 183* against Sri Lanka and iconic six to win the World Cup in 2011 are etched in Indian cricket history.

1. Sachin Tendulkar – 463 ODIs

At the top of the list is the ‘God of Cricket’ himself, Sachin Tendulkar. With an unmatched 463 ODIs, Tendulkar’s career spanned over two decades, and he remains the highest run-scorer in the format with 18,426 runs.

His ability to score runs in every condition, against every opposition, and his record-breaking 100 international centuries make him one of the greatest cricketers of all time. In an era where significantly less ODI cricket is played, Tendulkar's record number of caps looks set to remain unbeaten for a very long time.

Read next: Fastest to 100 wickets in ODIs

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