With 16 fifty-plus scores at No. 4 in ODIs, Iyer moves past cricket legends Brian Lara and Sachin Tendulkar, reinforcing his dominance in the format.
Dubai [UAE], March 2 – Shreyas Iyer continues to make a strong case as India’s most reliable No. 4 batter, surpassing Brian Lara and Sachin Tendulkar in the list of most fifty-plus scores in ODIs at the position.
Iyer’s latest milestone came during India’s ICC Champions Trophy group-stage match against New Zealand, where he played a composed 79 off 98 balls, striking four boundaries and two sixes at a strike rate of 80.61.
Iyer’s No. 4 Dominance
With this innings, Iyer now has 16 fifty-plus scores at No. 4 in just 39 innings, overtaking:
- Brian Lara – 16 fifty-plus scores in 84 innings (2 centuries, 14 fifties).
- Virat Kohli – 15 fifty-plus scores in 39 innings (7 centuries, 8 fifties).
According to Wisden, Iyer’s rapid progress has cemented him among the best in this role.
At No. 4, he has now amassed 1,728 runs at an average of 52.36 and a strike rate of 101.52, with four centuries and 12 fifties, his highest score being 128 in ODIs*.
How Iyer Compares with the Greats
The all-time record for most fifty-plus scores at No. 4 in ODIs belongs to New Zealand’s Ross Taylor, who racked up 65 such scores (19 centuries, 46 fifties).
Among Indian batters, Mohammed Azharuddin holds the record for most fifty-plus scores at No. 4, with 36 such scores (3 centuries, 33 fifties).
Iyer’s Form in 2025: A Year of Growth
Iyer has significantly improved his game, particularly against the short ball, which had been a past concern. His 2025 form speaks volumes about his progress:
- 331 runs in six innings
- Average of 55.16
- Strike rate above 100
- Four half-centuries
- Best score: 79
Iyer’s ODI Career at a Glance
In 68 ODIs, the right-hander has piled up 2,752 runs at an average of 48.28, with five centuries and 22 fifties, proving to be a cornerstone of India’s middle order.
The Road Ahead
With India aiming for Champions Trophy glory, Iyer’s consistency at No. 4 will be crucial for the team’s success. If his current form continues, he could rewrite more records and establish himself as one of India’s greatest middle-order batters in ODIs.