Top 5 highest individual scores in ODI Asia Cup

India is set to announce its Asia Cup squad on Monday. Meanwhile, teams like Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan are preparing hard for the continental tournament. This year’s Asia Cup holds immense significance due to the upcoming ODI World Cup 2023. The 50-over format of this tournament will help teams prepare and fine-tune their skills and squad.

Cricket enthusiasts have been treated to exceptional performances in the Asia Cup over the years. These top individual scores have left an indelible mark on the tournament's history, showcasing the players' batting prowess and match-winning abilities. From thrilling chases to dominant displays, these innings have etched themselves into cricket lore. Let's take a look at the top 5 individual scores in the history of the ODI Asia Cup.

#5. Virat Kohli 136 vs. Bangladesh 2014

Virat Kohli, India (Source: Twitter)

In the 2014 Asia Cup, Virat Kohli displayed his batting prowess with a stunning performance against Bangladesh. Facing the host team, Kohli played a remarkable innings, scoring 136 runs from just 122 balls. His knock was laced with 16 powerful fours and two impressive sixes. Kohli's heroic effort proved to be a match-winner, as it propelled India to chase down Bangladesh's target of 279 runs with six wickets to spare in Fatullah.

Despite a shaky start where India found themselves at 54 for 2 in 12.5 overs while chasing a challenging 280-run target, Kohli's leadership and batting brilliance shone through. As captain, he understood the significance of staying at the crease, scoring big, and guiding the team to victory. Although he couldn't finish the game, his innings left an indelible impact. By the time he was dismissed, his 136-run contribution had already secured India's triumph.

#4. Shoaib Malik 143 vs. India 2004

Shoaib Malik, Pakistan (Source: Twitter)

During the 2004 Asia Cup Super-Fours clash in Colombo, Shoaib Malik showcased a stunning performance, amassing an impressive 143 runs off just 127 balls against India. His exceptional century played a pivotal role in propelling Pakistan's total to 300/9 within 50 overs. For India, star batter Sachin Tendulkar took three wickets with the ball. While chasing the formidable target, India managed to reach only 241/8 in their allotted 50 overs, with Sachin Tendulkar contributing 78 runs to the tally.

Notably, Malik's influence extended beyond batting, as he also demonstrated his bowling prowess by securing two wickets while conceding 42 runs. This remarkable innings secured Shoaib Malik's place in the annals of Asia Cup history, standing as the fourth-highest individual score in the tournament's One Day International (ODI) matches.

#3. Mushfiqur Rahim 144 vs Sri Lanka 2018

Mushfiqur Rahim, Bangladesh (Source: Twitter)

Mushfiqur Rahim, the talented Bangladeshi wicketkeeper batter, showcased his prowess during the 2018 Asia Cup clash against Sri Lanka. In this memorable match, Mushfiqur Rahim crafted a remarkable innings, amassing 144 runs off 150 deliveries. His innings was a blend of finesse and power, featuring 11 well-timed fours and four soaring sixes.

Playing at the iconic Dubai International Stadium, Bangladesh set a formidable total of 261 runs on the scoreboard. The Sri Lankan batting lineup, in contrast, faltered against Bangladesh's bowlers. They were bundled out for a mere 124 runs. Bangladesh clinched victory with a massive margin of 137 runs. This splendid performance secured Rahim’s position as the third-highest individual scorer in the history of the Asia Cup.

#2. Younis Khan 144 vs Hongkong 2004

Younis Khan, Pakistan (Source: Twitter)

Younis Khan, the former Pakistani batsman, showcased his batting prowess in the 2004 Asia Cup against Hong Kong. He etched his name in history by scoring an exceptional 144 runs off just 122 balls. Facing the debutant Hong Kong team, Younis smashed 8 boundaries and sent 3 balls sailing over the ropes, propelling Pakistan to a commanding total of 343/5 in 50 overs.

Teaming up with Shoaib Malik, the duo formed a remarkable partnership of 223 runs, both of them scoring centuries. Younis Khan's innings was the second-highest individual score in an ODI Asia Cup match. With their strong performance, Pakistan's total seemed insurmountable for Hong Kong.

As the pressure mounted, Hong Kong's batting lineup struggled, eventually collapsing at 165 runs in 44.1 overs. Shoaib Malik also shone with the ball, taking 4 wickets for 19 runs. Pakistan emerged victorious by a staggering margin of 173 runs.

#1. Virat Kohli 183 vs Pakistan 2012

Virat Kohli, India (Source: Twitter)

Virat Kohli's outstanding performance during the 2012 Asia Cup remains a memorable moment in cricket history. In the face of a challenging target of 330 runs set by Pakistan, Kohli rose to the occasion and displayed his exceptional batting prowess. With a determined approach, he accumulated a staggering 183 runs off 148 deliveries. This remarkable innings was adorned with 22 fours and a single six.

Kohli's sensational knock propelled India to a remarkable 6-wicket victory against their fierce rivals. His brilliant partnership with Rohit Sharma, who contributed 68 runs, added to India's victory. This achievement etched Kohli's name in the record books, making him the holder of the highest individual score in the Asia Cup's 50-over format.