# Article Outline
| Heading |
|---------|
| Introduction |
| What is an ODI in Cricket? |
| How is a Score Measured in ODI Cricket? |
| The Record-Breaking Low Scores in ODI Cricket |
| 1. The Infamous 35 All Out |
| 2. Canada's Struggles - 36 All Out |
| 3. Zimbabwe's Misery - 38 All Out |
| 4. India's Historic Collapse - 42 All Out |
| 5. Pakistan's Disastrous Performance - 43 All Out |
| 6. Namibia's Struggle - 45 All Out |
| 7. England's Embarrassing 86 |
| 8. Canada's Another Low Score - 97 All Out |
| 9. Bangladesh's Nightmare - 78 All Out |
| 10. Kenya's Troubles - 69 All Out |
| Factors Leading to Low Scores |
| Conclusion |
| FAQs |
# **Lowest Score in ODI Cricket**
Cricket, known for its unpredictable twists and turns, has witnessed some astonishingly low scores in One Day International (ODI) matches over the years. These dismal performances left fans in disbelief and provided moments of intense drama on the field. In this article, we'll dive into the depths of ODI cricket's lowest scores, exploring the circumstances that led to these cricketing nightmares.
## Introduction
ODI cricket, the 50-over format of the game, has provided fans with thrilling contests, high-scoring affairs, and unforgettable moments. However, it has also seen some remarkably low scores that left fans, players, and pundits bewildered. These low scores are a testament to the unpredictable nature of cricket, where even the strongest teams can crumble under pressure.
## What is an ODI in Cricket?
Before we delve into the lowest scores, let's understand what an ODI is. One Day Internationals are a form of limited-overs cricket where each team gets a maximum of 50 overs to bat and bowl. It's a shorter, more dynamic version of the game compared to Test cricket, with a unique set of rules and strategies.
## How is a Score Measured in ODI Cricket?
In ODI cricket, a team's score is measured by the total number of runs they score while batting. The team that scores the most runs wins the match. However, as we'll see shortly, there have been instances where teams struggled to put up even a modest total.
## The Record-Breaking Low Scores in ODI Cricket
### 1. The Infamous 35 All Out
One of the lowest points in ODI history belongs to Zimbabwe. In 2004, they faced Sri Lanka and were bowled out for a mere 35 runs. Muttiah Muralitharan was the tormentor-in-chief, taking 4 wickets for just 9 runs. This remains one of the lowest team scores in ODI cricket.
### 2. Canada's Struggles - 36 All Out
Canada, in the 2003 World Cup, had a forgettable match against Sri Lanka. They were bundled out for 36 runs, with Chaminda Vaas wreaking havoc with figures of 6 wickets for 25 runs.
### 3. Zimbabwe's Misery - 38 All Out
Zimbabwe faced another batting nightmare in 2009 when they played against Sri Lanka. They managed to score just 38 runs, with Nuwan Kulasekara taking 4 wickets for 4 runs.
### 4. India's Historic Collapse - 42 All Out
In 1974, India faced England in a match that would haunt them for years. India was bowled out for a paltry 42 runs, with Geoff Arnold taking 5 wickets for just 21 runs.
### 5. Pakistan's Disastrous Performance - 43 All Out
Pakistan, a cricketing powerhouse, suffered a shocking defeat against the West Indies in 1993. They could only muster 43 runs, with Curtly Ambrose claiming 5 wickets for 22 runs.
### 6. Namibia's Struggle - 45 All Out
Namibia faced the wrath of the Australian bowling attack in 2003, managing to score just 45 runs. Glenn McGrath and Andy Bichel shared 9 wickets between them.
### 7. England's Embarrassing 86
In the 2001 NatWest Series, England faced New Zealand and collapsed to a meager 86 runs. Shane Bond led the charge for New Zealand with 6 wickets for 23 runs.
### 8. Canada's Another Low Score - 97 All Out
Canada's batting woes continued in 2003, this time against the mighty Australians. They could only score 97 runs, and Glenn McGrath took 3 wickets for just 17 runs.
### 9. Bangladesh's Nightmare - 78 All Out
Bangladesh, a team that has made significant strides in cricket, faced a humbling defeat in 2003 against South Africa. They were dismissed for 78 runs, with Makhaya Ntini grabbing 4 wickets for 19 runs.
### 10. Kenya's Troubles - 69 All Out
Kenya, a team known for its giant-killing acts, had a dismal outing against Australia in 2002. They managed just 69 runs, and Brett Lee bowled them out with a devastating spell.
## Factors Leading to Low Scores
Low scores in ODI cricket can be attributed to various factors, including challenging pitch conditions, exceptional bowling performances, nervousness under pressure, and a lack of batting depth. It serves as a reminder that in cricket, anything can happen, and no team is invincible.
## Conclusion
The lowest scores in ODI cricket stand as a testament to the game's unpredictable nature. Even the strongest teams can falter, and moments of cricketing brilliance can turn into nightmares. These instances remind us that cricket is more than just a game; it's a rollercoaster of emotions, where the underdog can rise, and the favorite can crumble.
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## FAQs
### 1. What is the lowest individual score in ODI cricket?
The lowest individual score in ODI cricket is 0 (zero). Several players have been dismissed without scoring a run in an innings.
### 2. Has any team ever won an ODI match after scoring a very low total?
Yes, there have been instances where teams defended low totals successfully due to exceptional bowling performances and favorable pitch conditions. Cricket's unpredictability often leads to surprising outcomes.
### 3. Who holds the record for the most wickets in a single ODI match?
The record for the most wickets in a single ODI match is held by Chaminda Vaas of Sri Lanka and Shahid Afridi of Pakistan, both of whom took 7 wickets in a match.
### 4. Which team has the highest ODI score?
As of my knowledge cutoff date in September 2021, the highest team score in an ODI match is 481/6, achieved by England against Australia in 2018.
### 5. What are some strategies to avoid a low score in ODI cricket?
To avoid a low score in ODI cricket, teams should focus on building partnerships, rotating strike, and having depth in their batting lineup. It's essential to assess pitch conditions and adapt to the situation