By Zainab Shafiq 
As the cricketing world eagerly anticipates the commencement of the ODI World Cup 2023 in India this October, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the stellar performances of some of the game’s most iconic players.
In the history of the ODI World Cup, several batsmen have showcased remarkable consistency by amassing fifties, contributing significantly to their teams’ success. Let’s delve into the statistics and stories of the top five players with the most fifties in ODI World Cup history.
Sachin Tendulkar (India)
The name Sachin Tendulkar is synonymous with cricketing excellence, and his World Cup journey was no exception. Over the span of five World Cup tournaments from 1992 to 2011, Tendulkar played 45 matches and scored a staggering 2278 runs.
His highest score of 152 and an average of 56.95 underline his mastery. Notably, Tendulkar recorded six centuries and 15 half-centuries, totaling an impressive 21 scores of 50 or more. His ability to consistently deliver under the immense pressure of World Cup cricket solidified his status as a cricketing legend.
Shakib Al Hasan (Bangladesh)
Shakib Al Hasan, the versatile Bangladeshi all-rounder, has been a cornerstone of his team’s performances in the ODI World Cup. Participating in four World Cups from 2007 to 2019, Shakib played 29 matches, accumulating 1146 runs at an average of 45.84.
His highest score of an unbeaten 124 and two centuries highlight his ability to excel on the grand stage. Shakib’s ten half-centuries, including a dozen scores of 50 or more, demonstrate his consistency as one of Bangladesh’s cricketing stalwarts.
Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka)
Kumar Sangakkara, the elegant Sri Lankan batsman, graced the World Cup stage from 2003 to 2015, playing 37 matches. His remarkable record includes 1532 runs at an average of 56.74, with a highest score of 124.
Sangakkara’s ability to anchor innings was evident through his seven half-centuries and five centuries in World Cup cricket. His total of 12 scores of 50 or more showcased his reliability, making him a vital cog in Sri Lanka’s World Cup campaigns.
Ricky Ponting (Australia)
Ricky Ponting, the Australian captain during their World Cup dominance, participated in five World Cups from 1996 to 2011, playing 46 matches. With 1743 runs at an average of 45.86 and a highest score of an unbeaten 140, Ponting’s contribution to Australia’s World Cup successes was monumental.
Ponting scored six centuries and six half-centuries, tallying 11 scores of 50 or more. His leadership and batting prowess made him a pivotal figure in the Australian squad.
AB de Villiers (South Africa)
AB de Villiers, the dynamic South African batsman, showcased his extraordinary talent in three World Cups from 2007 to 2015, playing 23 matches. De Villiers scored 1207 runs at a remarkable average of 63.52, with a highest score of 162 not out.
His adaptability and innovative stroke play were evident through his four centuries and six half-centuries, totaling 10 scores of 50 or more. De Villiers’ ability to accelerate the innings made him a game-changer for South Africa.
As cricket enthusiasts gear up for the upcoming ODI World Cup 2023, these five players serve as a testament to the significance of consistency and adaptability in the pinnacle of cricketing tournaments. Their remarkable records and contributions have left an indelible mark on the history of the ODI World Cup, setting the stage for another thrilling edition of the tournament.
Anas Ahmed