Who is the ‘Master of ODI cricket’? Shane Watson reveals his pick

Jan 8, 2025

No tags for this post.

Who is the ‘Master of ODI cricket’? Shane Watson reveals his pick

Spread the love

Shane Watson reveals the Master of ODI cricket

The debate over who dominates the One-Day International (ODI) format has always intrigued cricket fans and experts alike. Across generations, players have showcased their mastery over the 50-over game, raising the bar with every performance. However, identifying the definitive “Master of ODI Cricket” is a complex task, considering the legendary careers and incredible records of numerous players. In the midst of this conversation, former Australian all-rounder Shane Watson, who always has a keen eye for the game, revealed his pick.

Shane Watson on the Master of ODI cricket

Watson has named none other than the superstar of the game, Virat Kohli, as the “Master of ODI Cricket,” praising his unparalleled consistency and ability to deliver under pressure. Watson expressed his admiration for Kohli’s dominance in the format, calling him a master across all forms of the game, but particularly ODIs. Watson’s endorsement is a reflection of Kohli’s ability to adapt, evolve, and thrive in every situation the format demands.

“Kohli is an absolute master of one-day cricket,” Watson said on Star Sports.

“Yes, he’s a master of all formats, but especially ODIs. You see his extraordinary numbers over a long period, averaging around 57 and a strike rate of 93. It’s crazy to think the control that he has over his innings,” he added.

Also READ: Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Jasprit Bumrah to miss England ODIs? Here’s the reason

Staggering numbers in ODIs

Watson’s claim is backed by Kohli’s remarkable achievements in ODIs. With nearly 14,000 runs (13,906) runs to his name, Kohli has consistently delivered for India over the years. His incredible batting average of 58.18 and a strike rate of 93.54 illustrate his ability to maintain consistency while scoring at a brisk pace.

Kohli’s record of 50 centuries is the highest by any batter in the history of ODIs. Known as “The Chase Master,” Kohli has been instrumental in guiding India to victory in numerous high-pressure run chases. His unmatched ability to pace an innings, whether setting a target or chasing one, has set him apart as a modern-day giant in ODI cricket.

Comparisons and legacy

Notably, Kohli’s dominance in ODIs has drawn comparisons to some of the greatest players in cricket history. While Sachin Tendulkar is revered as the “God of Cricket,” Kohli’s consistency and adaptability have earned him recognition as one of the finest players of his generation.

Unlike Tendulkar, who thrived in an era dominated by traditional stroke play, Kohli’s game reflects the demands of modern cricket, where fitness, power, and precision are paramount. His ability to perform across various conditions and against top-quality opponents has placed him in the same league as Ricky Ponting, AB de Villiers, Kumar Sangakkara and Jacques Kallis.