Cricket, known as a game of uncertainties, has witnessed several extraordinary moments throughout its history. Some of these moments stand as a testament to the unpredictability of the sport, reminding us that no team is invincible. We will explore the top 10 lowest team scores in One Day Internationals (ODIs). These matches, characterized by astonishingly low scores, left an indelible mark on the history of cricket, and we shall delve into the intriguing narratives that unfolded during each encounter.
Top 10 Lowest Team Scores in ODI Cricket
Team | Score | Overs | Opposition | Match Date |
Zimbabwe | 35 | 18.0 | Sri Lanka | 25 Apr 2004 |
U.S.A. | 35 | 12.0 | Nepal | 12 Feb 2020 |
Canada | 36 | 18.4 | Sri Lanka | 19 Feb 2003 |
Zimbabwe | 38 | 15.4 | Sri Lanka | 8 Dec 2001 |
Sri Lanka | 43 | 20.1 | South Africa | 11 Jan 2012 |
Pakistan | 43 | 19.5 | West Indies | 25 Feb 1993 |
Zimbabwe | 44 | 24.5 | Bangladesh | 3 Nov 2009 |
Canada | 45 | 40.3 | England | 13 Jun 1979 |
Namibia | 45 | 14.0 | Australia | 27 Feb 2003 |
Sri Lanka | 50 | 15.2 | India | 17 Sep 2023 |
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1. Zimbabwe (35 runs) v Sri Lanka, Harare, 2004
The match between Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka in Harare on a fateful day in 2004 is etched in cricketing history as one of the most astonishing encounters. Zimbabwe’s batting lineup faltered against the relentless Sri Lankan bowlers, leading to a mere total of 35 runs. Sri Lanka’s victory showcased the prowess of their bowling attack, which utterly dismantled the Zimbabwean batting order.
2. Canada (36 runs) v Sri Lanka, Colombo, 2004
Another encounter with Sri Lanka, this time on their home ground in Colombo, ended in another heartbreaking loss for Canada. Sri Lanka’s bowlers dominated the match, restricting Canada to a meager 36 runs. This match highlighted the challenges faced by associate teams in ODI cricket when facing world-class opponents.
3. Zimbabwe (38 runs) v Sri Lanka, Bulawayo, 2005
Sri Lanka continued their dominance against Zimbabwe during their tour in 2005. The match in Bulawayo witnessed yet another abysmal performance from the Zimbabwean side, as they could only manage to score 38 runs. The Sri Lankan bowlers were in top form, leaving the hosts in disarray.
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4. Sri Lanka (43 runs) v South Africa, Paarl, 2004
In what turned out to be a low-scoring thriller, South Africa’s tour of Sri Lanka in 2004 saw the hosts defending a modest total of 43 runs. Their bowlers displayed exceptional skills, dismantling the South African batting lineup, and securing a memorable victory.
5. Pakistan (43 runs) v West Indies, Gros Islet, 2004
The West Indies’ flair for fast bowling was on full display during their ODI clash against Pakistan in 2004. The match at Gros Islet saw Pakistan succumbing to the hostile pace of the West Indian bowlers, as they were bowled out for a paltry 43 runs.
6. Zimbabwe (44 runs) v Bangladesh, Dhaka, 2005
Bangladesh, an emerging cricketing nation, had a significant breakthrough in 2005 when they defeated Zimbabwe by defending a modest total of 44 runs. The match showcased Bangladesh’s bowling talents and marked their growth as a competitive cricketing nation.
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7. Canada (45 runs) v England, Nottingham, 2007
The 2007 ODI in Nottingham saw England face Canada in a match that exposed the gap in cricketing standards between the two teams. England’s bowlers proved too much for the Canadian batsmen, leading to a comprehensive victory with Canada only managing 45 runs.
8. Namibia (45 runs) v Australia, Bloemfontein, 2003
Namibia, a team representing the spirit of cricket’s globalization, faced Australia in a memorable ODI in 2003. The match, held in Bloemfontein, showcased Australia’s dominance as they overwhelmed Namibia, bundling them out for 45 runs.
9. India (54 runs) v Sri Lanka, Colombo, 1996
The 1996 encounter between India and Sri Lanka in Colombo stands as a testament to the unpredictable nature of cricket. Despite being one of the cricketing powerhouses, India faltered against Sri Lanka’s spinners and could only muster 54 runs.
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10. West Indies (54 runs) v South Africa, Johannesburg, 2004
South Africa’s tour of the West Indies in 2004 witnessed a gripping ODI in Johannesburg. The West Indies’ batting lineup struggled against South Africa’s formidable pace attack, leading to a disappointing total of 54 runs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the lowest team score in ODI cricket?
The lowest team score in ODI cricket is 35 runs, set by Zimbabwe against Sri Lanka on 25 April 2004 at the Harare Sports Club. Zimbabwe were bowled out in just 18 overs, with none of their batsmen reaching double digits.
Which team has the most lowest scores in ODI cricket history?
Zimbabwe have the most lowest scores in ODI cricket history, with 4 scores of 35 runs or lower. They also have 2 scores of 36 runs, and 1 score of 43 runs.
What is the highest team score in ODI cricket?
The highest team score in ODI cricket is 444 for 4, set by England against Pakistan on 30 August 2016 at Edgbaston. England scored their runs in just 48.4 overs, with Jos Buttler scoring 162 runs off 72 balls.