Highest Opening Partnership in ODI Cricket World Cup: The ODI World Cup trophy is the most significant and prestigious prize in the game of cricket for any country. It bestows upon a team the title of “world champions.” England achieved their inaugural ODI World Cup victory in their own home country last year.
The upcoming ICC ODI World Cup 2023 will take place in India. In the multinational tournament, the stakes are consistently high, with most teams aiming for a strong opening partnership to establish a solid foundation for the rest of the batting lineup.
This underscores the crucial roles played by both openers. On numerous occasions, they have provided their team with an excellent start, contributing significantly to victories. When it comes to the World Cup, the responsibilities of the opening batters become even more pivotal. Let’s delve into the Highest Opening Partnership in Cricket World Cup, Highest 1st Wicket Partnership in ODI World Cup.
Read also: Fastest Fifties in ODI World Cup History
Highest Opening Partnership in ODI Cricket World Cup History
Following are the Highest Opening Partnerships in the History of the ODI World Cup.
The Unstoppable Duo – Upul Tharanga and Tillakaratne Dilshan (2011)
In the annals of ODI cricket, the partnership between Upul Tharanga and Tillakaratne Dilshan during the year 2011 stands as an indomitable force. These Sri Lankan stalwarts displayed their cricketing prowess against Zimbabwe in Pallekele, crafting an awe-inspiring partnership of 282 runs. This remarkable feat not only showcased their individual brilliance but also exemplified the synergy that made them one of the most formidable opening pairs in the game’s history.
A Record-Breaking Blitz: Tharanga and Dilshan Strike Again (2011)
In a remarkable display of consistency and batting excellence, Upul Tharanga and Tillakaratne Dilshan etched their names into the record books once more in 2011. This time, their partnership of 231* runs left the cricketing world in awe as they outplayed England at Colombo (RPS). Their relentless pursuit of victory and impeccable batting skills demonstrated why they were a force to be reckoned with, making Sri Lanka proud.
Pakistan’s Manchester Marvel: Saeed Anwar and Wajahatullah Wasti (1999)
The year 1999 witnessed an unforgettable partnership between Saeed Anwar and Wajahatullah Wasti of Pakistan. Faced with the challenge of New Zealand in Manchester, these two batsmen orchestrated a brilliant partnership, amassing a staggering 194 runs. Their resilience and ability to navigate the bowling attack under pressure earned them a well-deserved place in cricketing history.
Indian Brilliance in Leeds: KL Rahul and RG Sharma (2019)
Indian cricket enthusiasts were treated to a dazzling display of talent in 2019 when KL Rahul and RG Sharma combined forces against Sri Lanka in Leeds. Their partnership of 189 runs showcased not only their impeccable batting skills but also their ability to adapt to varying match situations. This performance solidified their reputation as two of India’s most dependable cricketers.
South African Supremacy: Kirsten and Hudson Shine (1996)
In the cricketing arena, 1996 witnessed a memorable partnership between G Kirsten and AC Hudson, representing South Africa. Facing off against the Netherlands in Rawalpindi, they crafted a formidable partnership of 186 runs. This partnership underscored South Africa’s rising prominence in world cricket and left a lasting mark on the game’s history.
These partnerships, spanning different teams, venues, and eras, continue to resonate in the hearts of cricket fans worldwide, serving as a testament to the enduring allure and excitement of One Day International cricket.
ODI World Cup Highest Opening Partnership List
Below is the Highest Opening Partnership in Cricket World Cup List:
| Batters | Partnership | Against | Venue | Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Upul Tharanga and Tillakaratne Dilshan (Sri Lanka) | 282 | Zimbabwe | Pallekele | 2011 |
| Upul Tharanga and Tillakaratne Dilshan (Sri Lanka) | 231* | England | Colombo (RPS) | 2011 |
| Saeed Anwar and Wajahatullah Wasti (Pakistan) | 194 | New Zealand | Manchester | 1999 |
| KL Rahul and RG Sharma (India) | 189 | Sri Lanka | Leeds | 2019 |
| G Kirsten and AC Hudson (South Africa) | 186 | Netherlands | Rawalpindi | 1996 |
| SR Watson and BJ Haddin (Australia) | 183 | Canada | Bengaluru | 2011 |
| RB McCosker and A Turner (Australia) | 182 | Sri Lanka | The Oval | 1975 |
| KL Rahul and RG Sharma (India) | 180 | Bangladesh | Birmingham | 2019 |
| WTS Porterfield and PR Stirling (Ireland) | 177 | Netherlands | Kolkata | 2011 |
| G Kirsten and HH Gibbs (South Africa) | 176 | New Zealand | Birmingham | 1999 |
