Virat Kohli Tops the ODI Century List: A Look at the Players with the Most Centuries in ODI History

Virat Kohli's special day was a moment for cricket fans around the world to pause and appreciate the incredible milestone he achieved in One Day International cricket — a remarkable feat of scoring a half-century of centuries. As Kohli stands proudly at the top of the list, he's not alone in this elite company. His name joins that of some of the most iconic players in the history of the game, each having etched their legacy with a stunning number of ODI centuries."

Virat Kohli - 50 Centuries

Virat Kohli holds the record for the most number of centuries in One Day Internationals (ODIs), with 50 centuries. He achieved this milestone during the 2023 World Cup semi-final against New Zealand, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar's iconic record of 49 ODI centuries in front of him. This moment will be etched forever in the history of Indian cricket and world cricket. Kohli's 50 centuries represent the pinnacle of his career, establishing him as a modern-day legend. Scoring this many centuries consistently is no easy feat, highlighting his hard work and patience throughout his career.

Sachin Tendulkar - 49 Centuries

Sachin Tendulkar, the iconic face of world cricket, held the record for a significant period until his successor, Virat Kohli, surpassed him. Tendulkar achieved this milestone during an era often characterized as a bowler’s game. He took 68 innings to score his maiden hundred but quickly went on to reach a remarkable total of 49 international centuries and 100 centuries in his overall career.

Tendulkar was foundational in setting numerous records. Known as the "Little Master," he demonstrated incredible toughness while facing a variety of bowlers in an era without the Decision Review System (DRS). His achievements are legendary, and the value of his contributions to the sport cannot be matched. Sachin Tendulkar remains a guiding figure in cricket and continues to stand at the pinnacle of the game.

Rohit Sharma - 31 Centuries

Indian captain Rohit Sharma is now the third Indian on the list of players with 31 centuries to his name. Early in his career, he had an average performance, and many wrote him off. However, 2013 marked the beginning of his era, where he scored two centuries that year. Over the next decade, he managed to catch up to the record holders. 

In addition to his 31 centuries, Rohit Sharma has scored three double centuries in One Day Internationals (ODIs), including a remarkable record score of 264. This innings is considered one of the greatest in the history of one-day cricket. Rohit’s success is a testament to seizing second chances, demonstrating that when life gives you a second chance, you should grab it just like Rohit Sharma did!

Ricky Pointing - 30 Centuries

Former Australian captain and legendary batsman Ricky Ponting ranks fourth on this list. He is the only player from outside Asia in the Top 5. Ponting began his career during the same era as Sachin Tendulkar but had a different mentality. He introduced the concept of aggressiveness to world cricket, evident not only in his fielding but also in his batting. Ponting had an attitude of never settling for anything less than greatness; he aimed for big achievements. With this mindset, he was able to lead and shape a dominant Australian team that ruled world cricket, ultimately resulting in numerous centuries at the top level.

Kumar Sangakkara - 25 Centuries

Sri Lankan cricket legend Kumar Sangakkara ranks fifth on this list with 25 centuries. He is the only left-handed batter among the Top 5 players. Sangakkara is known for his exceptional performance across formats, holding the highest conversion rate for centuries. He still holds the record for four consecutive centuries in World Cup history. Renowned for his consistency and exceptional patience in building an innings, Sangakkara's contributions to the national team are unmatched.