3. Ricky Ponting: 164 against South Africa, 2006
Well this one is hard to believe. Ricky Ponting’s side lost the match even after posting a World record total of 434 runs.
Australia skipper Ricky Ponting produced one of the most sensational one-day innings of all time as Australia powered to a world-record total of 434 for 4 – the first 400-plus score in the game’s history. The right-handed batsman smashed 164 sublime runs from 105 balls, with 13 fours and an astonishing nine sixes. However, his valiant effort was overshadowed by a brutal batting display by South African batsman Herschelle Gibbs. Chasing such a huge total, South Africa replied positively with Herschelle Gibbs and Graeme Smith combining to put up 187 runs in just over 20 overs for the second wicket. Gibbs continued to smash Australian bowling all round the park after Smith’s exit for 90. Gibbs struck 175 off 111 balls with 21 fours and 7 sixes to take South Africa close. South Africa won with 1 wicket remaining and 1 ball to spare. Gibbs and Ponting were jointly given the Man of the Match award.