In the fast-paced world of One Day International (ODI) cricket, the powerplay overs are a critical phase where batsmen go all out to put pressure on the opposition. With only two fielders allowed outside the 30-yard circle, it becomes a thrilling opportunity for the attacking players to pile on the runs. Here’s a look at the top 5 instances of the Most Runs in ODI Powerplay, where these explosive performances showcased batting brilliance and set the stage for big totals in their respective matches.
List of Top 5 Most Runs in ODI Powerplay
5. Sri Lanka vs South Africa

South Africa came out with an impressive performance in the powerplay against Sri Lanka, amassing 113 runs in the first 10 overs — one of the Most Runs in ODI Powerplay history. Despite a slightly lower strike rate compared to others on the list, South Africa’s ability to stay consistent and aggressive during the early phase of the innings made their performance memorable. They hit boundaries regularly and found quick singles, dominating the bowlers in the powerplay.
South Africa’s openers maintained a solid foundation, giving the middle order the confidence to build on their early momentum. This explosive performance not only secured the runs but also ensured a competitive total was set in the match.
Balls | Runs | 4s | 6s | SR |
60 | 113 | 13 | 3 | 173.33 |
4. West Indies vs India

West Indies came out with fire in their bellies during the powerplay against India, reaching 114 runs — one of the Most Runs in ODI Powerplay history. The aggressive approach to every delivery was evident, with a healthy mix of boundaries and well-timed sixes, which kept the Indian bowlers under pressure. Their opening batsmen dominated the bowlers with an exceptional strike rate of 177.04, and this performance played a crucial role in setting the pace for the rest of the innings.
This partnership helped West Indies create the perfect platform for the rest of the innings, and while the run rate slightly dipped, their early onslaught ensured that they would be in a strong position throughout the game.
Balls | Runs | 4s | 6s | SR |
60 | 114 | 12 | 8 | 177.04 |
3. New Zealand vs England

New Zealand displayed their aggressive batting skills in the powerplay against England, scoring 116 runs in the first 10 overs — one of the Most Runs in ODI Powerplay history. With an impressive combination of strokes, they kept the scoreboard ticking at a healthy rate. The batsmen maintained solid partnerships and rotated the strike well while taking advantage of the gaps in the field. Their strike rate of 181.66 was highly impressive, and they managed to score freely without losing too many wickets.
This powerplay performance showcased the disciplined aggression of New Zealand’s top-order, with the batsmen playing an essential role in putting up a strong score in the early stages.
Balls | Runs | 4s | 6s | SR |
60 | 116 | 13 | 7 | 181.66 |
2. Australia vs New Zealand

Australia showed exceptional power hitting in the powerplay against New Zealand, scoring 118 runs in just 10 overs — one of the Most Runs in ODI Powerplay history. The strike rate of 185.48 was one of the highest on this list, and the batting was full of explosive shots. The openers dominated from the get-go, ensuring that the pressure was firmly on the New Zealand bowlers. Boundaries and sixes flowed freely as the batsmen smashed the ball all around the park.
This aggressive start helped Australia to build a large score early on, and their approach set the stage for a big total in the match. The performance was proof of the Australian team’s aggressive mentality in the powerplay overs.
Balls | Runs | 4s | 6s | SR |
60 | 118 | 11 | 10 | 185.48 |
1. New Zealand vs Sri Lanka

The top spot in the list of Most Runs in ODI Powerplay belongs to New Zealand for their phenomenal display against Sri Lanka in 2015, where they smashed 118 runs in the powerplay. Their strike rate of 220.00 is simply mind-boggling, and their batting was aggressive right from the first ball. The New Zealand openers attacked every delivery, finding gaps and clearing the boundary with ease. This effort was nothing short of a masterclass in attacking cricket, and their ability to dominate the field restrictions was a game-changing factor.
New Zealand’s early surge allowed them to put Sri Lanka under immense pressure, setting a strong foundation for a massive total, making it one of the performances with the Most Runs in ODI Powerplay ever seen.
Balls | Runs | 4s | 6s | SR |
50 | 118 | 11 | 8 | 220.00 |
Conclusion:
These performances prove how crucial the powerplay is in setting the tone of an ODI match. The dominance displayed by these teams in the first 10 overs is a testament to their attacking mindset and skillful execution. From explosive centuries to boundary-laden starts, these teams have shown what is possible when players go for the big shots right from the start — often leading to records for the Most Runs in ODI Powerplay.
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