5 batsmen who held the No.1 ODI rank for most consecutive days

The ODI format reached its peak in popularity when the World Cup was introduced in 1975. During that time, the mighty West Indies were able to traumatize the batsmen. Being tall, sharp, and skiddy, they were the greatest team in that era. But, the best part about ODI cricket is that it keeps on evolving. 

ODI cricket became everyone’s favorite once the colorful jerseys were introduced. Under the floodlights, people enjoyed the game. Opinions changed and ODI cricket became the top priority for everyone. With multiple tournaments and World Cups, everyone loved the fact that they could witness a game of cricket within 100 overs.

In the 50-over format, multiple cricketers dominated the game. Well, many batsmen were at the top for more than 1000 days. These batsmen became the giants of the game. Their technique was pure enough to survive the ever-changing rules of the format.

Here are the players who dominated the format by being the best batsman in the format for the most consecutive days.

Let's look at the 5 batsmen who held the No. 1 ODI rank for the most consecutive days:

5. Brian Lara: 1049, From 9 March 1996 to 21 Jan 1999

Brian Lara is one of the greatest batsmen in the modern era. His wizardry skills are enough to make you fall in love with this game. He was the savior, match winner, and leader of the West Indies team that often looked up to him. Lara’s match-winning abilities were outstanding and he was the prince of the sport in Trinidad. For those who were unlucky to witness his dominance, well he sits at the top along with Sachin, Ponting, and Kallis when one lists down the best to touch the willow. 

With 299 ODI games, Lara managed to cross the 10,000 run mark with an average of 40.17. A decent strike rate of 79.51 made him the premier batsman in the West Indies lineup. Apart from that, with 19 centuries and 63 half-centuries, he dominated the bowlers with ease. We all remember him for his magnificent 400, which is still a world record. 

But one record which is overshadowed by his brilliance is his 1049 days as the best ODI batsman. Lara was at his prime during these years and managed to become the match-winner for the West Indies. He was replaced by Michael Bevan, another legend of the game. But, Lara’s 1049 days of dominance are sufficient enough to prove his worth.