One of the most frustrating things that can happen to a batter in ODI cricket is being out for a duck. It indicates you have been dismissed without scoring a single run, which can have a big impact on your team’s prospects of winning the match.

However, there are a few who have avoided getting out for a duck throughout their ODI careers. These batsmen are exceptional, and their achievements should be acknowledged.

In this article, we will take a look at the player who never got out on a duck in ODIs. We will examine their careers, their batting styles, and the factors that have contributed to their success.

Players Who Never Got Out on Duck in ODI

In the vast history of ODI cricket, five outstanding players have never got out on a duck. Their incredible achievement distinguishes them in cricketing worldwide by highlighting their capabilities as a reliable and consistent batsman.

#1 Kepler Wessels (Australia/South Africa)

Kepler Wessels has played the most One-Day Internationals (ODIs) without being dismissed. During his career, he represented both Australia and South Africa, amassing over 3000 runs in 109 innings.

Wessels was an effective and dependable batter recognized for his concentration and ability to consistently score. He was also a very dynamic batter who could bat anywhere in the order.

#2 Yashpal Sharma (India)

Yashpal Sharma was an important player in India’s World Cup-winning team in 1983. He was a clever and elegant batsman acknowledged for his timing and grace.

Sharma played in 42 One-Day Internationals and scored over 800 runs without getting out for a duck. He was a very constant batter, averaging more than 28 runs per innings.

#3 Peter Kirsten (South Africa)

Both in Test and ODI cricket, Peter Kirsten was a prolific run-scorer. He scored over 1200 runs without being out for a duck during his 40 ODI matches for South Africa.

Kirsten was a strong and aggressive hitter who thrived at hitting sixes. He was also skilled at running between the wickets as well.

#4 Jacques Rudolph (South Africa)

Between 2003 and 2006, Jacques Rudolph was a trustworthy and able batter for South Africa. Over 1177 runs were scored by him in 45 ODIs without being out for a duck.

Rudolph averaged almost 35 runs per inning and was a very reliable batter. In ODIs, he made over 30 catches owing to his excellent fielding skills.

#5 Shreyas Iyer (India)

Indian batter Shreyas Iyer has been made his name for being reliant in the middle order batting. He has played 46 one-day internationals and amassed over 1753 runs without being dismissed for a duck. Iyer can bat in any position in the order and is a very versatile batsman. As of 2023, ahead of the World Cup 2023 tournament, Shreyas Iyer is a modern-day Indian Player Who Never Got Out on Duck in ODI.

Factors behind a player never getting out on a Duck

There are a few common factors that can be seen in the careers of the players who have never got out on a duck in ODIs.

Firstly, all of these players were excellent batters. They could score runs consistently and were not prone to breakdowns.

In addition, all of these players were terrific under pressure. They could perform well in important matches and were not easily scared by the bowlers.

Lastly, each one of these players was an adept hitter. They were able to adjust to different conditions and batting positions.

Tips to Avoid getting out for a duck in ODIs

Following these guidelines may significantly improve a batsman’s chances of scoring frequently and help them have a successful career if they are trying to avoid being out for a duck.

Patience and Selective Play: Wait for the right ball and avoid attempting shots outside of your comfort zone by using patience and selective play.

Straight Batting: Concentrate on playing the ball straight when you bat to minimize your chance of getting caught or bowled.

Footwork and Positioning: Position yourself effectively by using your footwork to generate more power and clean hits.

Awareness of Field Placement: Maintain an eye on the field and try to hit the ball into openings to maximize runs.

Discernment: If the ball is not in your swinging zone, don’t be hesitant to leave it.

Players who never got out on a duck during their ODI careers achieved a unique and remarkable feat. Their achievements serve as a reminder of the value of talent, determination, and mental toughness in the sport of cricket.