Scoring a double-century in ODI cricket is remarkable, but it can end in heartbreak when the team loses.

England captain Harry Brook became the recent victim after his maiden double century against Sri Lanka in ODI tri-series.

Scoring a double-century or coming close to one in One Day International (ODI) cricket is an extraordinary achievement, but even the most remarkable individual performances can end in disappointment when the team fails to cross the finish line. Over the years, several batters have produced breathtaking innings, rewritten record books and carried their sides with extraordinary determination, only to see their efforts overshadowed by an opposition victory.

From record-breaking double-centuries to unforgettable last-wicket battles, these performances highlight the unpredictable nature of ODI cricket. While the winning team ultimately takes the glory, the batters who stand tall in defeat often leave behind equally memorable stories. Let’s take a look at some of the highest individual scores in a losing cause in men’s ODI cricket, based on the supplied match details.

5 highest individual scores in ODIs in a losing cause

1. Harry Brook – 202 vs Sri Lanka, Rawalpindi, 2026

England captain Harry Brook occupies the top spot in this list following a sensational double-century against Sri Lanka during the 2026 ODI tri-series in Rawalpindi. Brook smashed 202 runs from just 115 deliveries, producing an explosive innings that combined aggressive strokeplay with remarkable consistency.

His extraordinary knock propelled England to a massive total of 429/4, putting the side in a commanding position. Brook’s innings stood out for its scoring rate and sheer impact, as he continued attacking the Sri Lankan bowlers even as the pressure mounted.

However, Sri Lanka responded with an equally stunning batting performance. Completing a remarkable chase of 430 with just one ball remaining, they secured a dramatic victory and turned Brook’s historic innings into a painful memory for England.

2. Charles Coventry – 194* vs Bangladesh, Bulawayo, 2009

Zimbabwe batter Charles Coventry produced one of the most memorable ODI innings of his career against Bangladesh in Bulawayo in 2009. Batting at number three, Coventry remained unbeaten on 194, equalling Saeed Anwar‘s then-record for the highest individual score in men’s ODI cricket.

Coventry struck 16 fours and seven sixes, showcasing a combination of patience and attacking intent to guide Zimbabwe to 312. His unbeaten effort appeared capable of delivering a famous victory, but Bangladesh had other plans.

Tamim Iqbal led the visitors’ response with an outstanding century, helping Bangladesh chase down the target with 13 balls remaining. Coventry’s achievement remained a major milestone, although the defeat denied him the perfect ending to an otherwise extraordinary day.

3. Fakhar Zaman – 193 vs South Africa, Johannesburg, 2021

Pakistan opener Fakhar Zaman delivered a remarkable individual performance against South Africa in the second ODI at the Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg in 2021. Chasing a challenging target of 342, Pakistan struggled to maintain momentum as wickets fell at the other end, leaving Fakhar to shoulder much of the responsibility.

The left-hander responded with an outstanding 193 off 155 balls, hitting 18 fours and 10 sixes. His fearless approach kept Pakistan in contention and raised hopes of an improbable victory despite the mounting pressure.

Fakhar’s innings eventually ended on the first ball of the final over when he was run out while attempting to complete a second run. A controversial distraction involving South African wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock became a major talking point after the dismissal. Pakistan ultimately fell short, leaving Fakhar seven runs away from a double-century and a potentially historic victory.

4. George Munsey – 191 vs Netherlands, Dundee, 2025

Scotland opener George Munsey delivered a spectacular batting display against the Netherlands in Dundee in 2025, producing a career-defining innings of 191 runs. His aggressive strokeplay put the opposition under immense pressure and gave Scotland a strong platform to post a competitive total.

Munsey’s innings demonstrated his ability to dominate an attack through calculated aggression and clean hitting. With the opener finding boundaries regularly, Scotland appeared well placed to secure a memorable home victory.

However, the Netherlands mounted an impressive response, matching Scotland’s attacking intent during the chase. Their batters kept the required run rate under control and ensured that Munsey’s monumental contribution was not enough to secure victory. The defeat proved a frustrating conclusion to an innings that deserved a more rewarding result.

5. Matthew Hayden – 181* vs New Zealand, Hamilton, 2007

Former Australia opener Matthew Hayden completes the list with an unbeaten 181 against New Zealand in Hamilton in 2007. Playing during Australia’s dominant era, Hayden produced a powerful innings despite suffering a broken toe during the match.

He scored 181 not out from 166 deliveries, striking 11 fours and 10 sixes to help Australia reach 346. Hayden’s ability to continue batting through the physical discomfort made his performance particularly memorable, while his aggressive approach kept Australia competitive throughout the innings.

New Zealand, however, refused to surrender. Craig McMillan played a decisive role in the chase, while Brendon McCullum helped guide the hosts through a tense finish. The Black Caps eventually secured a thrilling one-wicket victory with three balls remaining, leaving Hayden’s remarkable unbeaten knock on the losing side.