India’s top 3 batsmen at number 4 in ODI cricket have made significant contributions. One scored over 4,600 runs, another contributed 3,384 runs, and the third amassed 3,226 runs. They played pivotal roles in key tournaments, with one being crucial in a World Cup victory, showcasing consistency and leadership.
3. Rahul Dravid
Rahul Dravid, who accumulated over 10,000 ODI runs, predominantly batted at number 3. However, for several matches, he also stepped up to bat at number 4, as the top three positions were occupied by Sehwag, Tendulkar, and Ganguly. Dravid had no qualms about batting lower for the team’s benefit.
In the number 4 position, Dravid scored 3,226 runs at an average of 35, including 2 centuries and 25 half-centuries.
2. Yuvraj Singh
Yuvraj Singh, the hero of India’s 2011 World Cup victory, remains India’s most successful number 4 batsman. As the current skipper, Rohit Sharma recently pointed out, India has struggled to find an effective replacement for Yuvraj at this crucial position. In addition to his batting, Yuvraj’s bowling made him a valuable asset to the team.
At number 4, Yuvraj scored 3,384 runs in 107 innings at an average of 35, including 6 centuries and 17 half-centuries. His pivotal performances in the 2011 World Cup helped India end a 28-year wait for the title.
1. Mohammad Azharuddin
Former captain Mohammad Azharuddin is India’s highest run-scorer at the number 4 position in ODI cricket. The elegant right-hander from Hyderabad scored 4,605 runs in 137 innings at an average of 40, with a strike rate of 77.
Azharuddin recorded 3 centuries and 33 half-centuries while batting at number 4. Alongside Sachin Tendulkar, he was one of India’s finest batsmen during the 90s.
| Player | Matches at Number 4 | Runs | Average | Centuries | Half-Centuries | Strike Rate |
| Mohammad Azharuddin | 137 | 4,605 | 40 | 3 | 33 | 77 |
| Yuvraj Singh | 107 | 3,384 | 35 | 6 | 17 | N/A |
| Rahul Dravid | – | 3,226 | 35 | 2 | 25 | N/A |