KL Rahul is the only Indian cricketer to score a century on his One Day International (ODI) debut. He achieved this milestone by scoring 100* against Zimbabwe on June 11, 2016. His performance remains unmatched in Indian cricket debut history.
A Debut to Remember: KL Rahul’s Historic Knock
When KL Rahul was handed his ODI cap in 2016, few expected him to make history in his very first outing. Opening the innings, Rahul delivered a calm and composed performance, scoring an unbeaten 100 runs off 115 balls, including 7 fours and 1 six. His innings played a crucial role in India’s 9-wicket victory over Zimbabwe.
Key Highlights of the Match:
- Opponent: Zimbabwe
- Venue: Harare Sports Club
- Date: June 11, 2016
- Score: 100* (115 balls)
- Result: India won by 9 wickets
Why KL Rahul’s Feat is Unique
In India’s long and storied cricketing journey, many legends have made memorable debuts—but none had scored a century on ODI debut until KL Rahul. Globally, only a handful of cricketers have managed this feat, making Rahul’s achievement all the more remarkable.
His performance not only set the tone for his career but also added him to an elite list of cricketers worldwide who’ve reached three figures in their very first ODI.
KL Rahul’s ODI Career Stats (as of 2025)
Since his debut, KL Rahul has grown into one of India’s most versatile white-ball players. He has batted in multiple positions—from opener to middle order—and even taken up wicketkeeping responsibilities in several matches.
| Statistics | Value |
|---|---|
| Matches Played | 85 |
| Runs Scored | 3,043 |
| Batting Average | 49.06 |
| Strike Rate | 88.18 |
| Centuries | 7 |
| Half-centuries | 18 |
| Highest Score | 112 |
| Wicketkeeping Dismissals | 50+ (catches + stumpings) |
Note: Stats are approximate and updated as of June 2025.
Legacy of KL Rahul’s ODI Debut
KL Rahul’s ODI debut century remains a landmark moment in Indian cricket. It showcased not just his technical prowess, but also his temperament—traits that have defined his journey across formats. He went on to captain India in limited-overs matches, contribute consistently across formats, and become a mainstay in the Indian setup.
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Final Thoughts
KL Rahul’s debut century in ODIs is not just a personal milestone—it is a historic achievement in Indian cricket. It reflects the promise he showed from day one and the consistency he has delivered ever since.
If you’re looking for more Indian cricket records or player profiles, stay tuned for our upcoming features.
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