Which Indian Cricketer Scored a Century on His ODI Debut?

(Which Indian Cricketer Scored a Century on His ODI Debut?)On June 11, 2016, Indian cricketer KL Rahul created history by scoring a century on his One Day International (ODI) debut. The match was played against Zimbabwe in Harare. With this innings, he became the first Indian player to score a hundred in his first-ever ODI match. It was a proud moment not only for Rahul but also for Indian cricket fans across the world.

In this article, we will discuss this incredible record, Rahul’s journey to the Indian team, and other interesting facts about cricketers who achieved a similar milestone globally.

Introduction to Which Indian Cricketer Scored a Century on His ODI Debut?

Scoring a century is a big achievement in cricket. Scoring one in your very first match is even more special. Only a few players in the world have done it. KL Rahul joined that elite group in 2016.

For India, no player had ever achieved this before. Rahul broke that record.

Who is KL Rahul?

Full Name: Kannur Lokesh Rahul
Born: April 18, 1992
Birthplace: Bangalore, Karnataka, India
Role: Right-handed batsman, occasional wicket-keeper
Teams: India National Team, Karnataka (domestic), Royal Challengers Bangalore (IPL), Lucknow Super Giants (IPL)

KL Rahul is known for his calm nature and stylish batting. Before making his ODI debut, he had already played in Test matches and impressed with his skills.

Rahul’s ODI Debut – Match Details

Let’s look at the match where Rahul made this history.

• Date: June 11, 2016

• Opponent: Zimbabwe

• Venue: Harare Sports Club

• Match Type: 1st ODI of the series

• Result: India won by 9 wickets

• Rahul’s Score: 100* (not out)

• Balls Faced: 115

• Fours: 7

• Sixes: 1

• Strike Rate: 86.96

He opened the innings and stayed till the end. His performance made the chase look easy. India was chasing 169 runs. Rahul’s calm approach helped India win comfortably.

Why Rahul’s Debut Century Was Special

Here’s why Rahul’s debut century was historic:

1. First Indian to do it – No Indian player before him had scored a century on ODI debut.

2. Opening the innings – Opening can be tough, but he managed pressure well.

3. Match-winning effort – His century ensured a win for the team.

4. Confidence boost – This innings helped Rahul get noticed on the global stage.

KL Rahul’s Journey Before ODI Debut

KL Rahul had a steady rise:

• Played domestic cricket for Karnataka.

• Scored heavily in Ranji Trophy.

• Selected for India’s Test team in 2014.

• Scored a century in his second Test.

• Continued improving and finally got his ODI chance in 2016.

His consistent domestic performance and calm attitude made selectors trust him.

Records Set by KL Rahul in That Match

In that debut match, KL Rahul broke or set the following records:

• First Indian to score a century on ODI debut.

• Eleventh player in the world to do so at the time.

• Only third player in the world to remain not out while scoring a century on debut.

This match made him a permanent name in cricket discussions.

Also Read: Who Was the First Indian Cricketer to Hit Six Sixes in an Over?

List of Other Cricketers Who Scored ODI Century on Debut

Here’s a list of some international cricketers who scored a century on ODI debut:

This shows how rare this achievement is.

How Did India React?

The cricket community in India praised KL Rahul:

• Social media was full of congratulations.

• Former cricketers like Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid praised him.

• Indian fans were hopeful that Rahul would become a future star.

He proved that the faith shown in him was correct.

Challenges After a Great Start

Starting with a century is amazing. But expectations also rise.

Rahul had to:

• Keep scoring regularly.

• Play in all formats.

• Adjust to different roles (opener, middle-order, wicketkeeper).

• Handle criticism when out of form.

Despite some ups and downs, Rahul has remained a key player for India.

Rahul’s ODI Career After Debut

As of 2025, KL Rahul has:

• Played over 75 ODI matches.

• Scored over 3500 ODI runs.

• Maintained an average above 45.

• Hit multiple centuries and fifties.

• Played in ICC tournaments and Asia Cups.

He also served as India’s vice-captain and even captained the team when seniors were rested.

KL Rahul’s Role in Indian Cricket Today

Today, Rahul is:

• A senior player in the Indian team.

• Trusted in pressure matches.

• A flexible batter who can bat in any position.

• A backup or main wicketkeeper in limited-overs games.

• An experienced IPL captain.

His debut century was just the beginning of a great journey.

KL Rahul’s Popularity Off the Field

Besides cricket, KL Rahul is known for:

• His fashion sense.

• Brand endorsements.

• Being active on social media.

• Marriage to Bollywood actress Athiya Shetty in 2023.

His clean image and calm nature make him a fan favorite.

Lessons from KL Rahul’s Century on Debut

KL Rahul’s debut century teaches us:

• Hard work in domestic cricket pays off.

• Calmness and focus help in pressure situations.

• First chances can be life-changing.

• Consistency is more important than just one big knock.

Summary: A Historic Debut

Let’s wrap up the key points:

• KL Rahul scored 100* on June 11, 2016, vs Zimbabwe.

• He became the first Indian cricketer to score a century on ODI debut.

• His knock helped India win easily.

• Rahul continues to be a valuable player for India.

• His story inspires young cricketers to stay patient and perform consistently.

FAQs

1. Which Indian cricketer scored a century on his ODI debut?

KL Rahul is the only Indian cricketer to score a century on his ODI debut. He did it against Zimbabwe on June 11, 2016.

2. What was KL Rahul’s score in his debut ODI?

He scored 100* (not out) while chasing 169 runs.

3. Has any other Indian cricketer come close to this record?

Many Indian players have scored 90+ on debut, but no one else scored a century.

4. Was KL Rahul an opener in his debut match?

Yes, he opened the innings and batted throughout the chase.

5. Is KL Rahul still part of India’s ODI team in 2025?

Yes, he continues to be a key part of India’s ODI team and often plays as a senior player.