Stats: Lowest scores in ODI Cricket

Chaminda Vaas made a habit of destroying the minnows in his heydays

Here is a list of the top five lowest scores in the history of ODI matches. The fact that Sri Lanka have restricted an opposition to a score of 40 and below for a record three times in the history of ODIs is quite staggering to say the least.

It is fair to say that the minnows had a hard time warding off Chaminda Vaas’s top class swing bowling. Vaas had taken 15 of the total 30 opposition wickets to fall in the three matches.

1. Zimbabwe vs Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka having already wrapped up the 3 match series literally thrashed the already wounded Zimbabweans. Only 3 Lankan bowlers bowled in the game with Vaas picking up four wickets. Maharoof finished with 3 wickets giving away just 3 runs. The total was chased down easily and Sri Lanka won the series 3-0.

2. Canada vs Sri Lanka

This was in the world cup in 2003. Canada lived up to their minnows tag and got bundled out for just 36 which was the lowest ever score at that time. Five batsmen registered ducks against their names and Sri Lanka had a comfortable nine wicket victory against their name.

3. Zimbabwe vs Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka have thrashed smaller opposition with ease over the years and this match was a prime example of it. Chaminda Vaas took a eight wicket haul and until now, that’s the best bowling figures in an ODI. Lanka won by nine wickets in the end.

4. Sri Lanka vs South Africa

This time the Sri Lankans were at the receiving end. Amla’s century ensured that South Africa posted a total above 300 and in reply, the wickets just fell like a pack of cards. It was a night to forget for the Lankans as only Kulasekara managed to touch double digits and they got bundled out for a paltry 43.

5. Pakistan vs West Indies

Six batsmen registered ducks and only one managed to cross two figures. Walsh managed to pick four wickets and was rightly awarded the man of the match. The target of 44 was chased down by the 13th over by the Carribeans as they won by seven wickets.

Note: Stats updated till 15th May, 2014.