Scoring a double century in the World Cup is seen as a sensational achievement and only very few cricketers have managed to pull off such an incredible feat. Since it is the 50-over format, it gives the batters extra time to plan and play shots accordingly such that it is possible for them to unlock the feat.
While scoring a century in the World Cup is seen as a tough task, few batters have even taken their batting to the next step in intensity to score a double hundred. In this article, let’s get to know more about the names of three cricketers who defied the odds and scored a double century in World Cups.
1. Martin Guptill
New Zealand international Martin Guptill operates as an opening batter in limited-overs formats of the game. He is one of the most destructive batters in the game. Moreover, he is known for his immaculate hitting and elegant strokeplay. It is worth mentioning here that Guptill holds the record for the highest individual score in Cricket World Cups.
He scored an unbeaten 237* (24 fours and 11 sixes) against the West Indies cricket team in Wellington in the 2015 edition of the World Cup, which is also the second-highest score in One-Day Internationals. His epic knock came in the fourth quarter-final, which helped New Zealand post 393/6 in 50 overs. West Indies were bowled out for 250. The Black Caps won the game by 143 runs. Guptill was adjudged the Man of the Match for his heroics.
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2. Chris Gayle
Christopher Henry Gayle is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most destructive batters to have graced the sport. The Universe Boss holds the record for scoring a double century in World Cups. The left-handed batsman achieved the feat against the Zimbabwe cricket team in the 2015 ODI World Cup.
West Indies cricket team immensely benefitted from the batsman’s services in that game. The Caribbeans posted 373/2 in their quota of 50 overs. On the contrary, Zimbabwe were bowled out for 289. West Indies won the game by 73 runs (D/L method). Gayle was named the Man of the Match for scoring 215 off 147 balls including 10 fours and 16 sixes.
3. Glenn Maxwell
Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell scripted history by becoming the first cricketer to score a double century in a run-chase in ODIs. He achieved the feat against the Afghanistan cricket team in the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2023. He batted so well despite having back spasms and a hamstring injury.
The all-rounder constructed his innings with the help of 21 fours and 10 sixes during his stay at the crease. Batting first, Afghanistan set up a target of 292. On the other hand, Maxwell chipped in with an unbeaten 201* and helped Australia ace the chase by 3 wickets. Maxwell was named the man of the match.
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