Top 5 batsmen with the most 50+ scores in ODIs in this decade

The rules and playing conditions of cricket have undergone a metamorphosis over the last decade or so. Earlier, playing conditions equally favored both the batting and bowling aspects of the game. In the past, scores of 250 were considered par for the 50-over format. Bowlers would constantly make the batsmen work hard for their runs with an equitable battle ensuring that there were not many lopsided contests.

But, nowadays, because of the change in playing conditions and rules, the ODI format tends to favour the batsmen more. Pitches have become more batting-friendly and additionally, the use of two new balls has negated reverse swing for pace bowlers. These factors, along with better batting skillsets due to T20s, have played a role in helping the batsmen dominate with their strokeplay and play a consistent brand of cricket.

Here, we will look at 5 players who have scored the most number of 50+ scores in ODI cricket 2010 onwards and have proved to be the most consistent batsmen.

Honourable mentions:

• AB de Villiers (2010-2018): 54 (135 matches)
• Kane Williamson (2010-present): 52 (149 matches)
• Eoin Morgan (2010-present): 50 (195 matches)
• Joe Root (2013-present): 49 (143 matches)
• Tillakratne Dilshan (2010-2016): 48 (159 matches)

---

#5 Ross Taylor (New Zealand) - 56

Ross Taylor has been the backbone of New Zealand's batting line-up over the past few years. Taylor and Kane Williamson have stitched up numerous invaluable partnerships for Kiwi side during this decade.

Generally, Taylor does not remain in the limelight and his contributions often fly under the radar. Owing to this reason, he is not considered as one of the best ODI batsmen going around despite his consistency. Since 2010, he has played 155 matches and scored 6339 runs at an impressive average of 54.01, including 17 centuries and 39 half-centuries.

#4 Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka) - 57

Kumar Sangakkara

Kumar Sangakkara is one of those rare cricketers who got better with age. His consistency improved remarkably during the later part of his ODI career. Sangakkara scored 4 consecutive centuries in 2015 World Cup before retiring from ODI cricket. He, along with Tillakratne Dilshan and Mahela Jayawardene, transformed Sri Lankan team into a formidable ODI side.

Sangakkara played 142 matches in this decade and scored 6356 runs at an impressive average of 52.96. He hit 15 centuries and 42 fifties in this period and earns himself the 3rd spot on this list.

---

#3 Hashim Amla (South Africa) - 59

Hashim Amla

Hashim Amla has been one of the most prolific runs corers in ODIs since the start of this decade. He has played numerous match-winning knocks for South Africa with his calm and composed strokeplay. He holds the record for the fastest batsmen to reach 2000, 3000, 4000, 5000, 6000 and 7000 runs in ODI cricket.

In this period, Amla has played 159 matches and scored 7265 runs at an average of 49.76 including 26 centuries and 33 half-centuries.

#2 Rohit Sharma (India) - 65

Rohit Sharma

Indian vice-captain Rohit Sharma has been a prolific run-scorer in ODI cricket ever since he became an opener. He has scored runs against all nations and became a quintessential player in the Indian setup. He has the unmatched record of scoring 3 double centuries in ODIs, a feat he accomplished during this decade.

Currently, Rohit holds the second position in ICC ODI batting rankings. Since 2010, he has played 174 matches and scored 7962 runs at an average of 53.44 including 27 centuries and 38 half-centuries.

---

#1 Virat Kohli (India) - 91

Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli is undisputedly the most successful ODI batsmen of this decade. His consistency levels are unparalleled and unmatched by any cricketer till now. Recently, Kohli led the Indian team in the 2019 World Cup tournament, held in England and Wales where India topped the points table during the group stage.

Since 2010, he has played 221 matches and scored 10802 runs at an astonishing average of 60.34. He has hit 40 centuries and 51 half-centuries during this decade and has gone on to cement his legacy as arguably the best ODI batsmen all time.