The Greatest ODI Batting Ratings in ICC history highlight a list of players who dominated the limited-overs format like no one else. These ratings aren’t just numbers they’re a reflection of greatness, consistency, and class. From Sir Viv Richards to Babar Azam, this elite list features cricketing legends from different generations who stood above the rest. Each player’s ICC rating showcases how influential and dominant they were during their peak. Let’s explore the top 10 players, ranked from 10 to 1, with detailed descriptions and stats showing why they achieved greatness in the world of ODI cricket.
List of Top 10 Greatest ODI Batting Ratings in ICC History
10. Babar Azam
Babar Azam, the modern-day batting star from Pakistan, has impressed everyone with his consistent performances. Stylish, elegant, and composed, Babar has already achieved one of the Greatest ODI Batting Ratings in ICC with a peak score of 898. He has carried Pakistan’s batting lineup on his shoulders and delivered under pressure in almost every major tournament. His ability to play technically sound innings while maintaining a good strike rate makes him one of the best contemporary batters.
| Country | Highest Rating |
|---|---|
| Pakistan | 898 |
9. AB de Villiers
AB de Villiers, known as “Mr. 360,” revolutionized modern ODI batting with his creativity and explosive shot-making. Representing South Africa, he achieved one of the Greatest ODI Batting Ratings in ICC history with a top score of 901. De Villiers could play all around the wicket, adapt to every situation, and change the course of a match in a matter of overs. His power-hitting combined with classical stroke play made him a once-in-a-generation talent.
| Country | Highest Rating |
|---|---|
| South Africa | 901 |
8. Brian Lara
Brian Lara is often remembered for his record-breaking Test innings, but his ODI career was equally brilliant. With a peak ICC rating of 906, Lara earned his spot among the Greatest ODI Batting Ratings in ICC history. His flamboyant drives, aggressive batting style, and ability to dominate top-class bowlers made him a pillar in the West Indies lineup. Even in pressure situations, Lara had the calmness and class to deliver match-winning performances.
| Country | Highest Rating |
|---|---|
| West Indies | 906 |
7. Javed Miandad
Javed Miandad was a strategic genius and the backbone of Pakistan’s batting for more than a decade. With a highest rating of 908, he clearly earned his place among the Greatest ODI Batting Ratings in ICC. Miandad was known for his fighting spirit, clever tactics, and ability to perform under pressure. He played many match-saving and match-winning innings, especially against strong opponents like India and the West Indies during the 1980s and 1990s.
| Country | Highest Rating |
|---|---|
| Pakistan | 908 |
6. Virat Kohli
Virat Kohli is considered one of the best ODI players of the modern era. His unmatched chase-master skills and ability to anchor innings have made him a legend in his own time. With a peak rating of 909, Kohli ranks among the Greatest ODI Batting Ratings in ICC. His intense focus, fitness, and hunger for big scores helped India win numerous games. Kohli has a habit of scoring centuries when the team needs him the most.
| Country | Highest Rating |
|---|---|
| India | 909 |
5. Dean Jones
Dean Jones brought flair and fitness to ODI cricket during the 1980s and 1990s. His energetic running between the wickets and smart strike rotation changed how ODIs were played. With an ICC rating of 915, he stands tall among the Greatest ODI Batting Ratings in ICC. Jones was a true team player and had the ability to control the innings at any stage. His contribution laid the foundation for Australia’s ODI success.
| Country | Highest Rating |
|---|---|
| Australia | 915 |
4. David Gower
David Gower was one of England’s most graceful left-handed batters. With a peak rating of 918, he holds a solid position in the Greatest ODI Batting Ratings in ICC. Gower didn’t rely on power but instead used perfect timing and elegance to score runs. He could pierce gaps with ease and was known for his smooth stroke play. His calm personality translated beautifully into his composed batting style on the field.
| Country | Highest Rating |
|---|---|
| England | 918 |
3. Greg Chappell
Greg Chappell was more than just a stylish batter he was a leader with unmatched discipline and consistency. The Australian maestro reached a peak rating of 921, securing his name in the list of Greatest ODI Batting Ratings in ICC. His ability to build innings with smart pacing and play anchor roles made him crucial to Australia’s early ODI dominance. Chappell’s technique and tactical mind were admired across the cricket world.
| Country | Highest Rating |
|---|---|
| Australia | 921 |
2. Zaheer Abbas
Zaheer Abbas, also known as the “Asian Bradman,” was Pakistan’s most stylish and consistent batter in the 1970s and 80s. His highest ICC rating of 931 puts him firmly in second place among the Greatest ODI Batting Ratings in ICC. Zaheer was fluent, elegant, and could play long innings effortlessly. His presence at the crease was enough to instill fear in bowlers. He was also the first Pakistani batter to score 2,000 runs in ODIs.
| Country | Highest Rating |
|---|---|
| Pakistan | 931 |
1. Viv Richards
At the top of the list is the legendary Sir Viv Richards, with a record ICC rating of 935 still unbeaten in ODI history. His dominance in the late 70s and 80s redefined ODI batting. Viv had raw power, unmatched confidence, and an intimidating presence. He could take on any bowler without fear. No wonder his peak rating remains the highest ever and the most iconic in the Greatest ODI Batting Ratings in ICC list. Richards wasn’t just a batter he was a force.
| Country | Highest Rating |
|---|---|
| West Indies | 935 |
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FAQ
Q1. What is the ICC batting rating?
The ICC batting rating is a score given to a batter based on their recent performances in ODIs, taking into account runs, opposition, match importance, and conditions.
Q2. Who holds the highest ever ICC ODI batting rating?
Viv Richards holds the highest ever ODI batting rating with a score of 935.
Q3. Is Virat Kohli the only modern player on this list?
Yes, Virat Kohli and Babar Azam are the only modern-era players in the top 10 ICC ODI batting ratings.
Q4. What makes AB de Villiers special in ODIs?
AB de Villiers was known for his 360-degree hitting and ability to change games quickly, earning him a spot among the greats.
Q5. How does the ICC calculate these ratings?
The ratings are calculated based on a player’s performance, match context, opposition strength, and consistency over a period of time.
