Men in blue, Master of One Day Cricket

Over the years, the Indian cricket team has improved its performance at the international level. Earlier, before our first World Cup triumph of 1983, we were treated as an underdog side who were incapable of lifting an ICC Trophy. But slowly and steadily, with consistent efforts put in by our elite players, the perception has changed. Presently, we are the number one side in almost every format and men in blue are looked upon as a tough side in every part of the world. 

The Indian ODI team is one of the best teams in the world. We have a decent record in this format as well. In total, India has played 1058 ODI matches, out of which, won 559 and lost 445. 

The X factor in India’s ODI team

What makes India a good side in this format is their balance. They have a decent pool of players who complement each other's game. From openers till tail-enders, each player understands their role and hence they bring a good deal to the table. Moreover, the domestic circuit in India is very well structured. It ensures that the best players from the country play at the highest level. The talent doesn’t go unrecognized and that ultimately brings the best crop at the top level. 

India is currently ranked as number 1 team in ODI. They are dominant in World Cups and in bilateral series as well. 

India in World Cups 

India is one of the toughest contenders in One Day format. They have clinched the title twice, that is, in 1983 and in 2011 and were runner ups in 2003 and 2023. 

In 1983, it was Kapil Dev’s team who grabbed the maiden title. It was during this tournament that India was first recognised on an international forum. Then in 2003, India lost the finals against Australia as they were conveniently outplayed by men in yellow. It was disheartening to watch as India failed to cross the last line. 

In 2011, MS Dhoni and Co lifted the World Cup and carved their names in history books. The tournament was scheduled in India and senior players like Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag and Zaheer Khan made sure that they made the most of the opportunity. 

In the 2023 ICC Men’s World Cup, India remained undefeated in all the league matches. They displayed some extraordinary cricket as each and every player was contributing to the winning cause, be it batting, bowling or fielding. However, they lost the finals against Australia at Narendra Modi Stadium. It was very disheartening to see men in blue lose as they played exemplary cricket throughout the tournament but one bad day cost them the title.

Records and statistics 

Highest total: 418/5 vs West indies

Lowest total: 54 all out in 26.4 overs vs Sri Lanka 

Most runs: Sachin Tendulkar (18,426)

Most hundreds: Virat Kohli (50*)

Most runs in a series: Virat Kohli (765- 2023 ICC Men’s World Cup)

Most wickets: Anil Kumble (334)

Most five wicket hauls: Mohammad Shammi (5)

Most wickets in a series: Mohammad Shammi (24- 2023 ICC Men’s World Cup)

Most dismissals: MS Dhoni (438)

Most catches: Mohammad Azharuddin (156)

Highest partnership: Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid (331 runs) 

List of ODI captains since 2000 

Most successful captains so far

India had some really great captains in this format. Each of them had their own set of ideologies as they all aimed at changing the culture of the game. While some inculcated young blood in the team, others tried to improve fitness of existing players. Hence, each one of them brought about a revolutionary change in order to make India a better cricketing nation. 

We, at ZAP cricket, think the two most successful ODI captains so far are Rohit Sharma and MS Dhoni. The former has the best winning percentage, 70.83 and the latter has the most number of ICC trophies. Both of them have had their plus and minus points but these two have been the most impactful skippers of the national team. Let’s discuss their contributions in detail: 

Rohit Sharma is the current captain of the Indian team and is one the best leaders in the world. He gives his players the freedom to play and that is the reason for his success as a leader. Records speak volumes about his work as the team has improved significantly during his tenure. However, he has not won the ICC Men’s World Cup. He deserved to win the 2023 edition, but fortunes didn’t support as men in blue lost the tournament once again in finals. 

MS Dhoni has lifted the World Cup in 2011 and Champions trophy in 2013, but his record in bilateral series has not been that impressive as the winning percentage during his tenure isn’t pleasing. One of the reasons for his success was his ability to read the course of the game. He understood the strengths and weaknesses of his team and that of his opponents. His impeccable observational skills gave him an edge over others. 

Just like Rohit Sharma, MS Dhoni, Kapil Dev, we are hopeful the future captains will bring more such ICC trophies home.