Top 10 Highest Individual Scores in World Cup Matches

The Cricket World Cup has witnessed some monumental individual performances over the years. As the stage sets for top-tier cricketing nations to compete for the ultimate glory, it has often been the stage where legends shine the brightest. Here, we recount the top 10 highest individual scores in World Cup matches, celebrating the sheer genius of these batsmen.

Martin Guptill – 237 (New Zealand)

The 2015 World Cup saw Martin Guptill of New Zealand etching his name in history. Playing against West Indies in Wellington, Guptill’s 237 remains a masterclass of clean hitting and sublime timing. His monumental innings is currently the highest individual score in World Cup history, propelling New Zealand to a commanding total of 393, and setting a daunting challenge for the West Indies.

Chris Gayle – 215 (West Indies)

In the same 2015 edition, Chris Gayle from the West Indies crafted a scintillating double century against Zimbabwe. With his explosive style, Gayle's 215 not only showcased why he's considered one of the most dangerous batsmen in the world but also marked him as the first non-Indian to score a double century. He also set a record partnership of 372 runs with Marlon Samuels during this innings.

Gary Kirsten – 188 (South Africa)

Back in the 1996 World Cup, Gary Kirsten produced a splendid 188 against the UAE. Representing South Africa, Kirsten's calculated aggression and precision not only guided his team to an imposing total but also set the highest World Cup score at the time. A record that remained unbroken for nearly two decades, it solidified South Africa's victory by a significant margin.

Sourav Ganguly – 183 (India)

The charismatic Indian captain, Sourav Ganguly, played a breathtaking knock of 183 against Sri Lanka in the 1999 World Cup. His innings, laden with boundaries, remain the highest by an Indian in World Cup history. Alongside Rahul Dravid, he crafted a 318-run partnership, setting a then-world record for any wicket in One Day Internationals.

Vivian Richards – 181 (West Indies)