Top 5 highest scorers for India on ODI debut

#1 KL Rahul

The Indian opener, who has been under pressure of late, holds the record for the highest score by an Indian on ODI debut.

KL Rahul made an unbeaten 100 off 115 balls versus Zimbabwe at Harare on 11 June 2016. It was the first ODI of India’s tour of Zimbabwe.

Fielding first after winning the toss, India cleaned up Zimbabwe for 168. Jasprit Bumrah was nearly unplayable, returning with figures of 4 for 28. Dhawal Kulkarni and Barinder Sran picked up two wickets each while Elton Chigumbura top-scored for Zimbabwe with 41.

With a small score to chase, Rahul came in and took on the Zimbabwe bowlers from the very start. The talented youngster hit seven fours during his stay at the crease.

The standout moment came when, on 94, he slammed Hamilton Masakadza for a six over long on to create history, becoming the first Indian to hit a hundred on ODI debut. The stroke also completed an emphatic nine wicket-win victory for India.

About the author

Renin Wilben Albert is a journalist who covers cricket at Sportskeeda. His passion for the sport stems from a childhood dream of becoming a cricketer. Although that path didn't unfold, Renin embraced an alternative career in cricket, channeling his love into journalism. Backed with a bachelor's degree in Mass Media (BMM) and 18 years of journalism experience, Renin brings a strong journalism guidelines to his work. He is also the Author of the book '10 Life Lessons from 10 Great Cricketers'.

Know More

Follow IPL Auction 2025 Live Updates, News & Biddings at Sportskeeda. Get the fastest updates on Mega-Auction and cricket news

Edited by Musab Abid