The list of players with the most ducks in ODI history showcases cricket’s unpredictable nature, where even the finest talents face unexpected setbacks at the crease. It highlights the sport’s inherent challenges, where vulnerability is an ever-present element.
Lasith Malinga (26 Ducks)
Lasith Malinga, famous for his distinctive bowling style and three ODI hat-tricks, also has an unenviable record of 26 ducks in ODIs. His batting setbacks place him fifth on the list for the most ducks in ODI history, despite his bowling brilliance.
Mahela Jayawardene (28 Ducks)
Former Sri Lankan captain Mahela Jayawardene, celebrated for his remarkable batting career, holds the record for the second-most ducks by a Sri Lankan in ODIs, with 28 ducks in 448 matches. Nevertheless, he amassed over 12,500 runs, underscoring his overall brilliance and resilience.
Wasim Akram (28 Ducks)
Wasim Akram, famously known as the “Swing King,” holds the unenviable record of 28 ducks in ODIs. However, his all-round skills shone through, with 3,717 runs in 356 matches, along with his legendary bowling achievements.
Shahid Afridi (30 Ducks)
Shahid Afridi, the dynamic Pakistan all-rounder, amassed 8,064 runs in 398 ODIs with his aggressive batting style. Yet, he also recorded 30 ducks, making him one of the players with the most ducks in ODI history.
Sanath Jayasuriya (34 Ducks)
Sanath Jayasuriya, Sri Lanka’s powerful left-handed all-rounder, holds the record for the most ducks in ODI history. Despite accumulating 13,430 runs across 445 matches, he was dismissed for a duck 34 times, highlighting the unpredictable nature of his impactful career.
| Rank | Name | Ducks | Matches | Runs |
| 1 | Sanath Jayasuriya | 34 | 445 | 13430 |
| 2 | Shahid Afridi | 30 | 398 | 8064 |
| 3 | Wasim Akram | 28 | 356 | 3717 |
| 4 | Mahela Jayawardene | 28 | 448 | 12650 |
| 5 | Lasith Malinga | 26 | 226 | 567 |