In the fast-paced world of One Day Internationals (ODIs), every ball counts, and time is always against the batsmen. That’s precisely why witnessing three batsmen from the same team hitting centuries in a single innings is an extraordinary feat rare enough to send ripples through cricketing circles.
ODI cricket, which officially began in 1971, has seen its share of thrilling moments. Initially, matches were played over 60 overs, but the format soon shifted to the now-standard 50 overs.
This change has made it even more challenging for multiple players to amass big scores simultaneously, as the competition for batting time intensifies.
However, history has recorded a handful of remarkable occasions when three batsmen from the same team reached triple figures in a single innings.
Notably, during a recent series between Australia and South Africa, three Australian batsmen achieved this feat an occurrence so rare that it’s only happened five times in the entire ODI annals. Here’s a look at these legendary moments:
1. Hashim Amla, Rilee Roussouw, and AB de Villiers vs West Indies (2015)
The first time three batsmen scored centuries in a single ODI innings was back in 2015, on the pitches of Johannesburg. South Africa’s batting maestros Hashim Amla, Rilee Roussouw, and AB de Villiers dominated West Indies in a masterclass of power-hitting.
Their collective brilliance not only shattered records but also showcased South Africa’s batting depth and flair, setting a precedent that still echoes in cricketing lore.
2. Quinton de Kock, Faf du Plessis, and AB de Villiers vs India (2015)
Later that same year, at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium, South Africa’s top-order displayed their scoring prowess once again. Quinton de Kock, Faf du Plessis, and the legendary AB de Villiers all reached three-figure marks in a high-octane clash against India.
The match was a rollercoaster of emotions, with South Africa’s batting lineup proving why they are considered one of the most formidable in world cricket. It was a display of explosive talent and team dominance that left Indian fans in stunned silence.
3. Phil Salt, Daryl Malan, and Jos Buttler vs Netherlands (2022)
Fast forward to 2022, when England put up a staggering total of 498 runs against the Netherlands. In that historic innings, Phil Salt blazed his way to 122, Daryl Malan contributed 125, and Jos Buttler undoubtedly one of England’s modern batting stars smacked an unbeaten 162.
Their collective effort was a cricketing spectacle, illustrating the sheer firepower and batting depth of the English side.
4. Quinton de Kock, Rassie van der Dussen, and Aiden Markram vs Sri Lanka (2023 World Cup)
Cricket’s biggest stage, the ICC World Cup 2023, witnessed another extraordinary moment when South Africa’s top three Quinton de Kock, Rassie van der Dussen, and Aiden Markram each scored centuries against Sri Lanka.
De Kock opened with a commanding 100, Van der Dussen added 108, while Markram’s 106 helped South Africa set a daunting target. This rare feat demonstrated South Africa’s batting resilience and their hunger for cricketing greatness on the world stage.
5. Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, and Cameron Green vs South Africa (Recent Series)
Perhaps the most recent and stunning example came during Australia’s decisive series against South Africa. In the final match, the Aussie top order Travis Head, Mitchell Marsh, and Cameron Green each scored centuries.
Itmarked the first time in ODIs that the top three Australian batsmen had achieved this feat, igniting celebrations across Australian cricket circles.
Their collective brilliance not only earned a commanding victory but also etched their names into the record books.These moments remind us of cricket’s unpredictability and the extraordinary talent that can turn a game on its head.
Whether it’s a historic Johannesburg showdown, a high-octane Mumbai clash, or a World Cup spectacle, the feat of three centuries in a single innings remains one of the most electrifying achievements in limited-overs cricket an awe-inspiring display of skill, power, and teamwork that leaves fans and critics alike in awe.
