Sri Lanka make ODI history with second 400-plus run chase

Sri Lanka have rewritten the record books in one-day international cricket, becoming the first team to successfully chase more than 400 runs twice in an ODI innings after pulling off a remarkable victory over England in Rawalpindi.

In a thrilling tri-series encounter at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on October 22, Sri Lanka chased down England’s imposing target of 429 runs in the final over, recording the second-highest successful run chase in ODI history.

The victory also made Sri Lanka the second Asian team to successfully chase a target exceeding 400 runs in the 50-over format. Their latest achievement further underlined the team’s growing reputation for producing extraordinary performances under pressure.

Only twice before had a team successfully chased a total of more than 400 in ODI cricket. South Africa set the benchmark in 2006 by chasing 435 against Australia, a record that remains unbeaten. India also joined the exclusive list on September 30 this year, successfully pursuing a target of 406 against the West Indies.

Sri Lanka have now added their name to that elite group, but their achievement carries an additional distinction: they are the first side to complete two successful ODI chases exceeding 400 runs.

The result also established a new benchmark for successful run chases on Pakistani soil. Before this match, the highest ODI target chased in Pakistan was 353, achieved by the national team against South Africa in 2025.

Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium also witnessed a new record, surpassing Pakistan’s previous best successful chase at the venue. Pakistan had chased down 337 against New Zealand at the same ground in 2023.

Sri Lanka’s dramatic victory against England will stand out as one of the defining moments of the tri-series, demonstrating how aggressive batting, composure and belief can turn a daunting target into a historic triumph.

With the record books rewritten in Rawalpindi, the contest has delivered a powerful reminder that even totals above 400 are no longer beyond reach in modern ODI cricket.