ODI cricket has a long history and we have already come across playing XI’s of various types, so far. However, when we look at the proposition of making a playing XI based on the highest number of runs scored at each batting position, we get an exciting XI. We explore the idea in this article. Hence, on that note, we take a look at the playing XI based on the number of runs scored in each batting position in ODI cricket.
Note: The playing XI is listed as per the batting position in which the players are the leaders.
Openers: Sachin Tendulkar (15310) and Sanath Jayasuriya (12740)
Sachin Tendulkar and Sanath Jayasuriya are the openers in this playing XI based on the number of runs scored in each batting position in ODI cricket. It is no surprise that this duo is on this list. While Sachin is the highest run-getter as an opener, Sanath comes second. Hence, we have both of them in this XI.
The Master Blaster scored at an average of 48 while the Sri Lankan legend made almost 34 runs every game. Both of them even contributed with the ball, especially Sanath, who actually started his career as a spinner.
Middle-Order: Ricky Ponting (12662), Ross Taylor (7690), Arjuna Ranatunga (4675) and MS Dhoni (4164)
No.3 is an important role in an ODI batting line-up. This player holds the link between the start and the end part of an innings. The batter at No.4 also holds a similar responsibility, although this cricketer has to be more adept at playing spin in the middle overs. Ricky Ponting and Ross Taylor are currently the highest run-scorers at No.3 and No.4 respectively.
No.5 and No.6 play an important role in finishing games. One of their attributes has to be the ability to take on the bowling at will. Usually, the wicket-keepers and the batters with part-time bowling abilities are slotted in here. Interestingly, the highest run-makers at No.5 and No.6, Ranatunga and Dhoni, both have captained their respective teams to a 50-over World Cup win.
All-Rounders: Chris Harris (2130)
Chris Harris is the all-rounder in this playing XI based on the most number of runs scored in each batting position in ODI cricket. The Kiwi is one of the underrated performers in the game.
As an all-rounder, he has been excellent, scoring a total of 4379 runs apart from collecting 203 wickets in his 250-match career. Although he is the highest run-getter at this position now, among the active players, Ravindra Jadeja is close on the Kiwi’s heels with 1698 runs in his account, so far.
Bowlers: Wasim Akram (1208), Mashrafe Mortaza (701), Waqar Younis (478), and M Muralitharan (170)
The No.8 role is very crucial in a batting line-up. When the game comes down to the wire, the player in this role is usually the player at the center of the action. Hence, decent batting skills are relevant. In this regard, Wasim Akram was brilliant. He hit six half-centuries in his career, apart from collecting 502 wickets for his nation. Similarly, Mashrafe Mortaza was also important for Bangladesh cricket. In a few games, he made vital contributions in the lower order. Hence, the player features here.
In any format, No.10 and No.11 are not expected to have a big role with the bat. However, the batting coaches are now keen on having them take part in a few drills. Nevertheless, Waqar Younis and Muralitharan are the leaders in these positions. They were wonderful performers and with the bat, too, they were not bad for the expectations on them.
