Sourav Ganguly, fondly known as Dada, turns 53 today. As one of India’s most influential and fearless cricket captains, Ganguly transformed Indian cricket, especially overseas. Known for backing young talent and instilling aggression in the team’s mindset, his contributions go beyond just numbers.
On this special occasion, let’s revisit 5 iconic records still held by Sourav Ganguly — achievements that seem nearly impossible to break in modern-day cricket.
1. Highest Partnership Runs in ODI Cricket History
Record: Most runs by a pair in One Day Internationals
Partner: Sachin Tendulkar
Total Runs: 8227 runs in 176 innings
Average: 47.55
Sourav Ganguly and Sachin Tendulkar formed the most successful opening partnership in ODI history. Together, they scored a staggering 8227 runs — a world record for any batting pair. No other duo has even crossed the 6000-run mark in ODIs so far. Their chemistry, understanding, and dominance during the 90s and early 2000s redefined opening partnerships globally.
This record has stood for over two decades and continues to remain untouched.
2. Highest Score in a Champions Trophy Final
Match: ICC KnockOut (Champions Trophy) Final, 2000
Opponent: New Zealand
Score: 117 runs
In the final of the 2000 ICC KnockOut Trophy (now known as Champions Trophy), Sourav Ganguly smashed 117 runs, which still remains the highest individual score in any Champions Trophy final to date.
Despite India’s loss in the final, Ganguly’s masterclass in pressure situations earned him immense praise and established him as a top performer in ICC events.
3. Highest Score by an Indian Left-Handed Batsman in Tests
Format: Test Cricket
Highest Score: 239 runs vs Pakistan (Bangalore, 2007)
Ganguly’s double century against Pakistan in 2007 remains the highest Test score by an Indian left-handed batsman. He played a crucial role in stabilizing the middle order and showed incredible patience and class throughout the innings.
Even legends like Gautam Gambhir, Yuvraj Singh, and Shikhar Dhawan have not been able to surpass this record, making it a unique feather in Ganguly’s cap.
4. Highest Individual Score by an Indian in a World Cup Match
Event: ICC Cricket World Cup 1999
Opponent: Sri Lanka
Score: 183 runs off 158 balls
One of the most iconic innings in World Cup history, Sourav Ganguly’s 183 against Sri Lanka is still the highest individual score by an Indian player in a World Cup match. He hit 17 fours and 7 sixes in that explosive knock.
To this day, no Indian batsman — not even Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, or Sachin Tendulkar — has surpassed this World Cup record.
This innings was a turning point in Ganguly’s career and showcased his ability to dominate world-class attacks.
5. Most Consecutive Player of the Match Awards in ODIs
Year: 1997
Consecutive Awards: 4
In 1997, Sourav Ganguly achieved something extraordinary — he won the Player of the Match award in 4 consecutive ODIs, a world record that still stands today.
This streak highlighted his consistent match-winning performances and ability to lead from the front. While many players have had purple patches, winning four back-to-back MVP awards remains unparalleled.
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Sourav Ganguly was more than just a batsman or a captain — he was a revolutionary leader who changed the face of Indian cricket. His fearlessness, belief in young talent, and ability to perform under pressure made him a true legend.
These five records of Sourav Ganguly continue to inspire future generations and highlight the greatness of one of India’s finest cricketers. With the evolution of modern cricket, it’s possible that these records might stay unbroken forever.