Introduction
Cricket fans often debate the strengths and weaknesses of players, especially when comparing iconic figures like KL Rahul and Steve Smith. As both players have recently completed 91 ODIs, a closer look at their statistics provides insight into their performances. This article will highlight their scores, averages, and key moments that distinguish these two athletes in the world of cricket.
KL Rahul's ODI Performance
KL Rahul has made a significant mark in One Day Internationals, having scored a total of 3,218 runs in 91 matches. His batting average stands at 49.50, with a strike rate of 89.48.
| Opponent | Matches | Runs | Average |
|---|
| Australia | 20 | 782 | 55.85 |
| New Zealand | 8 | 328 | 65.60 |
| South Africa | 11 | 313 | 39.12 |
| England | 13 | 301 | 27.36 |
In the wins, Rahul has scored 2,150 runs at an impressive average of 58.10. Among his notable performances, he has registered seven centuries during his career, with his best score being 112 against New Zealand.
Steve Smith's ODI Journey
On the other hand, Steve Smith's record after 91 ODIs showcases his formidable talent. He has accumulated 2,880 runs, maintaining an average of 42.35 and a strike rate of 87.80.
| Opponent | Matches | Runs | Average |
|---|
| South Africa | 17 | 568 | 43.69 |
| England | 22 | 583 | 32.38 |
| India | 9 | 467 | 66.71 |
| New Zealand | 9 | 337 | 48.14 |
Smith has also earned a reputation for clutch performances, hitting seven hundreds with a top score of 164 against New Zealand.
Chasing vs. Setting the Target
When analyzing their performances while batting first or in chases, both players have exhibited impressive statistics. Rahul has amassed 1,278 runs in 48 chases, averaging 45.64. In contrast, Smith has scored 1,238 runs from 44 chases, averaging 42.68.
Their ability to perform on different pitches and conditions is commendable, as evidenced by their respective averages of 52.43 and 42.10 when batting first.
Conclusion
Both KL Rahul and Steve Smith have showcased exceptional talent in their ODI careers. Their performances across 91 matches reflect a blend of consistency and explosive batting. Their stats underline their contributions in crucial matches and highlight their skill sets that appeal to cricket enthusiasts worldwide.