Most Sixes in ODI Cricket: Celebrating the Giants of Power Hitting

One Day Internationals (ODIs) have witnessed a significant evolution since their inception, with aggressive batting becoming a hallmark of modern cricket. Among the most exhilarating aspects of this transformation is the art of hitting sixes. This article delves into the top six-hitters in ODI history, highlighting their remarkable achievements and the impact they've had on the game.

Top Six-Hitters in ODI History

According to ESPNcricinfo's records, the following players have etched their names in history with the most sixes in ODI cricket:

1. Shahid Afridi (Pakistan) – 351 Sixes

Known as "Boom Boom," Shahid Afridi revolutionized the role of the all-rounder with his explosive batting. Over a career spanning from 1996 to 2015, Afridi amassed 351 sixes in 398 matches, setting a benchmark for aggressive play .

2. Rohit Sharma (India) – 344 Sixes

Rohit Sharma, renowned for his elegant stroke play, has become India's premier six-hitter. With 344 sixes in 265 innings since his debut in 2007, Sharma's ability to combine timing with power has made him a formidable opener .

3. Chris Gayle (West Indies) – 331 Sixes

The "Universe Boss," Chris Gayle, brought unparalleled power to the crease. From 1999 to 2019, he struck 331 sixes in 294 innings, often demoralizing bowlers with his sheer strength and audacious hitting .

4. Sanath Jayasuriya (Sri Lanka) – 270 Sixes

A pioneer of aggressive opening batting, Sanath Jayasuriya's career from 1989 to 2011 saw him hit 270 sixes in 433 innings. His fearless approach laid the foundation for modern-day power hitters .

5. MS Dhoni (India) – 229 Sixes

MS Dhoni, India's legendary captain and finisher, combined calmness with brute force. Between 2004 and 2019, he amassed 229 sixes in 297 innings, often sealing victories with towering hits .

Record for Most Sixes in a Single ODI Innings

The record for the most sixes in a single ODI innings is held by England's Eoin Morgan, who hit 17 sixes against Afghanistan during the 2019 World Cup at Old Trafford . This remarkable feat showcased the evolution of power hitting in the modern game.

The Art of Six-Hitting

While strength plays a role, successful six-hitting also relies on:

Timing: Perfect synchronization between bat and ball.

Technique: Proper stance and swing mechanics.

Shot Selection: Choosing the right delivery to attack.

Mental Fortitude: Confidence to take calculated risks.

Players like Rohit Sharma exemplify how combining these elements can lead to consistent boundary-clearing performances.

Conclusion

The ability to hit sixes has become an integral part of ODI cricket, reflecting the game's shift towards aggressive play. Legends like Shahid Afridi and Chris Gayle set the stage, while contemporary stars like Rohit Sharma continue to push the boundaries. As the game evolves, the art of six-hitting will undoubtedly remain a thrilling spectacle for fans worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who has hit the most sixes in ODI cricket history?

As of 2025, Shahid Afridi of Pakistan holds the record for the most sixes in ODI history, with 351 sixes in 398 matches.

2. Who is the Indian player with the most sixes in ODIs?

Rohit Sharma leads the list among Indian players with 344 sixes, making him one of the most prolific six-hitters in the world.

3. Which active cricketers are close to breaking the sixes record?

Rohit Sharma is currently the closest active cricketer to breaking Afridi's record. Other active players like Jos Buttler, Glenn Maxwell, and Nicholas Pooran are also strong contenders, though still far behind in total count.

4. What is the record for most sixes in a single ODI innings?

The record belongs to Eoin Morgan of England, who smashed 17 sixes in a single innings against Afghanistan during the 2019 World Cup.

5. Which country has the most players in the top 10 list of ODI six-hitters?

India has multiple representatives in the top 10, including Rohit Sharma, MS Dhoni, and Sachin Tendulkar, showcasing its depth in big-hitting talent.

6. Does hitting more sixes mean a higher strike rate?

Not necessarily. While sixes do contribute to a higher strike rate, consistent boundary rotation and fewer dot balls also play crucial roles in strike rate efficiency.

7. Are sixes more common in modern-day ODIs?

Yes. With fielding restrictions, better bats, smaller boundaries, and the influence of T20 cricket, modern ODIs see significantly more sixes than in earlier decades.

8. Which bowler has conceded the most sixes in ODIs?

As per ESPNcricinfo data, Shahid Afridi, being both a bowler and a long-serving player, also appears high on the list of sixes conceded. However, detailed updates vary seasonally based on active players.