Unveiling three lowest Powerplay scores in ODI Cricket history

The powerplay in a match which is played in a format like ODI, is always a crucial phase of the game, setting the tone for the innings. However, sometimes teams find themselves in dire straits during this early period. Low powerplay scores often result from a combination of exceptional bowling, helpful conditions for the bowlers, and sometimes poor shot selection by the batters.

On that note, let’s explore the 3 lowest powerplay scores in ODI history, highlighting the challenging situations teams have faced. These instances are etched in cricketing history as proof of the challenges faced by teams in high-stakes ODI matches.

1. 9/3 – Pakistan vs. New Zealand in 2018

In the third ODI match of the series in January 2018, Pakistan played against New Zealand and encountered a challenging situation right from the beginning. Their task was to chase a target of 257 runs, which seemed reasonable until Pakistan’s innings got off to a dreadful start. Within the powerplay, they lost three wickets for a mere nine runs, and their batsmen had a tough time facing the New Zealand bowlers. Pakistan failed to recover from this humiliating powerplay performance and were eventually dismissed for a paltry total of 74 runs.

2. 11/3 – India vs. Sri Lanka in 2017

During an ODI match between India and Sri Lanka in December 2017, the Indian team faced a challenging situation in the powerplay. They could only manage 11 runs on the scoreboard while losing three wickets, putting immense pressure on the Indian middle order to steady the innings. The Sri Lankan bowlers effectively dismantled the Indian top order, which included prominent batsmen like Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan. As a result, the Indian team was bowled out for a mere 112 runs, ultimately losing the match by 7 wickets.

3. 14/6 – Sri Lanka vs. India in 2023

In a 2023 ODI World Cup encounter between Sri Lanka and India, Sri Lanka encountered a grave predicament. They were tasked with chasing a colossal target of 357 runs, but during the powerplay, their scorecard displayed a precarious 14/6. This unquestionably presented an immense challenge for the Sri Lankan team, and they ultimately suffered a 302-run defeat in the match.