One-Day International (ODI) cricket once provided a balanced contest between bat and ball. However, with the introduction of new regulations, including the use of two new balls, the format has increasingly favored batters.
England, traditionally known for challenging batting conditions in home ODIs, have also experienced a shift in scoring trends. Their aggressive batting revolution post the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup grabbed attention, as they embraced an ultra-attacking approach that redefined their style of play.
5. Jos Buttler – 5,022 Runs
Current England captain Jos Buttler has become a key player in both white-ball formats for his country.Initially known as a hard-hitting slogger, Buttler has refined his game to construct innings effectively while still finishing with explosive strokes. His ability against spin has also improved significantly.
At 34, he has accumulated 5,022 runs in 154 ODI innings at an average of 39.54 and a striking rate of 117.11.
4. Paul Collingwood – 5,092 Runs
Paul Collingwood remains one of the most underrated batsmen of his generation.
Debuting in international cricket in 2001, Collingwood established himself as a white-ball specialist, scoring 5,092 runs in 181 ODI innings at an average of 35.36 and a strike rate of 77.
Besides his batting prowess, he was also a valuable part-time bowler, claiming 111 wickets in his ODI career at an average of 38.68.
3. Ian Bell – 5,416 Runs
Renowned for his elegant cover drives, Ian Bell ranks third with 5,416 runs in 157 ODI innings at an average of 37.87 and a strike rate of 77.16.
Originally a middle-order batsman, Bell was shuffled into different roles before cementing his place as an opener in the latter part of his career.
His final ODI appearance came against Afghanistan in the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup in Sydney.
2. Joe Root – 6,522 Runs
A modern-day great, Joe Root has been one of England’s most dependable batters across all formats.Since making his ODI debut in 2013 against India in Rajkot, the 34-year-old has amassed 6,522 runs in 160 innings at an impressive average of 47.6 and a strike rate of 86.77.
In a team filled with power-hitters, Root plays a crucial role as an anchor, ensuring stability in England’s batting lineup.
1. Eoin Morgan – 6,957 Runs
Former England captain Eoin Morgan tops the chart with 6,957 runs in 207 ODI innings, averaging 39.75 with a strike rate of 93.89. He also holds the record for the most ODI half-centuries (42) for England.
Morgan’s highest individual score in the format came during the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup, where he smashed 148 runs off 71 balls against Afghanistan, including 17 sixes and four boundaries.
