Highest scores at No.5 or lower in ODI chase
Run chases in One Day Internationals are one of the toughest accomplishments as they require being well-set at the crease, having situational awareness, taking calculated risks, and keeping the required run rate in check, all at the same time. There have also been a few batters that would have succeeded in getting the job done in the middle-order during big ODI chases.
Michael Bracewell, who scored an unbeaten 127 runs from 82 deliveries during the first ODI between New Zealand and Ireland recently, also features on this list having scored 20 runs of the final over bowled by Craig Young. Without further ado, here’s a look at three of such accomplished batters.
3. Shaun Pollock 130 vs Asia XI,2007
Former South African bowling all-rounder Shaun Pollock finds a notable mention on this list. He had scored a blistering 130 runs off 110 balls during an Afro-Asia Cup encounter between Africa XI and Asia XI in Bengaluru in June 2007.
Chasing a stiff target of 318, Pollock took matters into his own hands as he staged a lone fightback to restore Africa XI’s hopes as they suffered a batting collapse. The Proteas cricketer was the last man to be dismissed as his side were bundled out for 283.
2. Thisara Perera 140 vs New Zealand, 2019
Sri Lankan all-rounder Thisara Perera, who is known for his amazing power-hitting techniques, also finds himself on this list. Perera had scored a quickfire century, but his valiant knock eventually went in vain.
Chasing 320 at Mount Maunganui in January 2019, Perera single-handedly look to get the job done for the Lankans, who were reeling at 128/7 and staring at a humiliating defeat. The southpaw counter-attacked the New Zealand bowlers and reduced the deficit.
Perera marched on after scoring his century, but his dream knock came to an end having scored 140 runs off just 74 deliveries at a strike rate of 189.18. Sri Lanka were eventually all out for 298 in the 47th over.
- Marcus Stoinis 146* vs New Zealand, 2017
Australian all-rounder Marcus Stoinis takes the top spot in this category courtesy of an epic unbeaten knock that he had played against New Zealand. Unfortunately, the contest saw the Aussies fall short by six runs.
Chasing 287, Australia were reeling at 67/6 and a disgraceful defeat was pretty much on the cards. Nonetheless, Stoinis showcased his brilliant power-hitting abilities and brought the then ODI world champions closer to the target as he successfully completed his century. Stoinis was the lone warrior and remained unbeaten on 146 runs from 117 deliveries as Australia were all out for 280.
