One-Day International cricket has witnessed some extraordinary bowling performances that completely changed the course of matches. From fiery fast bowling to magical spin spells, these performances remain unforgettable in cricket history. In this article, we explore the Top 5 Best Bowlings Figures in ODIs, highlighting the bowlers who delivered record-breaking spells on the biggest stage.
The list of the Top 5 Best Bowlings Figures in ODIs features legendary names who dismantled batting lineups with sheer skill and determination. Let’s dive deep into these historic performances.
1. Chaminda Vaas – 8/19 vs Zimbabwe (2001)

Chaminda Vaas holds the record for the best bowling figures in ODI history. His incredible spell of 8 wickets for just 19 runs came against Zimbabwe in Colombo in 2001. This magical performance tops the list of the Top 5 Best Bowlings Figures in ODIs and remains unmatched even today.
Vaas destroyed Zimbabwe’s top order with precision swing bowling and even claimed a hat-trick in the first over of the match. His spell helped Sri Lanka bowl out Zimbabwe for just 38 runs.
Match Summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Bowling Figures | 8/19 |
| Overs Bowled | 8 |
| Maidens | 3 |
| Opposition | Zimbabwe |
| Venue | Colombo |
| Year | 2001 |
This unforgettable performance rightfully earns its place among the Top 5 Best Bowlings Figures in ODIs.
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2. Shahid Afridi – 7/12 vs West Indies (2013)

Shahid Afridi produced one of the most destructive bowling spells in ODI cricket when he took 7 wickets for just 12 runs against West Indies in 2013.
His leg-spin completely confused the Caribbean batsmen, making this performance one of the Top 5 Best Bowlings Figures in ODIs. Afridi’s variations, pace changes, and sharp turn proved too difficult to handle.
Match Summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Bowling Figures | 7/12 |
| Overs Bowled | 9 |
| Maidens | 5 |
| Opposition | West Indies |
| Venue | Providence |
| Year | 2013 |
This spell firmly secures its spot in the Top 5 Best Bowlings Figures in ODIs.
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3. Glenn McGrath – 7/15 vs Namibia (2003)

During the 2003 Cricket World Cup, Glenn McGrath delivered a phenomenal spell against Namibia, taking 7 wickets for just 15 runs.
His precise line and length dismantled Namibia’s batting order. This outstanding effort ranks highly among the Top 5 Best Bowlings Figures in ODIs and remains one of the best World Cup bowling performances ever.
Match Summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Bowling Figures | 7/15 |
| Overs Bowled | 7 |
| Maidens | 4 |
| Opposition | Namibia |
| Venue | Potchefstroom |
| Year | 2003 |
McGrath’s brilliance ensures his inclusion in the Top 5 Best Bowlings Figures in ODIs.
4. Rashid Khan – 7/18 vs West Indies (2017)

Afghanistan’s spin sensation Rashid Khan stunned the cricket world with his 7/18 spell against West Indies in 2017.
His sharp leg-spin and deceptive googlies made this performance one of the Top 5 Best Bowlings Figures in ODIs. Rashid’s dominance at such a young age highlighted his world-class talent.
Match Summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Bowling Figures | 7/18 |
| Overs Bowled | 8.4 |
| Maidens | 3 |
| Opposition | West Indies |
| Venue | Gros Islet |
| Year | 2017 |
Rashid’s spell is a proud entry in the Top 5 Best Bowlings Figures in ODIs list.
5. Andy Bichel – 7/20 vs England (2003)

Andy Bichel delivered a match-winning performance against England during the 2003 World Cup, taking 7 wickets for 20 runs.
His spell under pressure makes it one of the Top 5 Best Bowlings Figures in ODIs. Bichel’s ability to break partnerships at crucial moments helped Australia secure victory.
Match Summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Bowling Figures | 7/20 |
| Overs Bowled | 10 |
| Maidens | 1 |
| Opposition | England |
| Venue | Port Elizabeth |
| Year | 2003 |
This incredible effort completes our list of the Top 5 Best Bowlings Figures in ODIs.
Final Thoughts
The Top 5 Best Bowlings Figures in ODIs highlight the finest individual bowling performances in ODI history. These legendary spells have etched the names of Vaas, Afridi, McGrath, Rashid, and Bichel into cricket folklore. As cricket evolves, new records may be created, but the historic performances in the Top 5 Best Bowlings Figures in ODIs will always remain benchmarks of excellence.
FAQs
1. Who holds the record for the best bowling figures in ODI history?
Chaminda Vaas holds the record with 8/19 against Zimbabwe in 2001, the best bowling figures ever in ODI history.
2. Which World Cup performance ranks among the top ODI bowling figures?
Glenn McGrath’s 7/15 against Namibia during the 2003 ICC Cricket World Cup is one of the greatest ODI bowling spells.
3. Which spinner delivered one of the best bowling figures in ODIs?
Shahid Afridi produced a sensational 7/12 against West Indies in 2013, making it one of the best bowling performances in ODI cricket history.
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