Since its first ODI match in 2009, the Dubai International Stadium has quietly built a reputation as one of cricket’s most consistent and competitive venues. While it may not be as high-scoring as some subcontinental grounds, the stadium has delivered countless unforgettable ODIs. In this post, we dive into the Dubai International Stadium ODI records — including the highest scores, average innings totals, and individual brilliance that have shaped its growing legacy.
Dubai International Stadium Highest Score in ODI History
The highest team total ever recorded at the Dubai International Stadium in ODI history is 317/6, achieved by South Africa against the United Arab Emirates (UAE) during the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup. This remains the only 300+ score ever made at the venue in ODIs, underlining how challenging batting can be on this pitch, especially in day-night games.
The pitch in Dubai tends to assist slower bowlers, and the large outfield makes boundary-hitting tough. As a result, scoring rates remain moderate, and centuries are rare compared to more batting-friendly grounds like Sharjah or Mumbai.
Here’s a look at the top 10 highest team scores in ODIs at Dubai International Stadium:
| Team | Score | Opponent | Match Date | Result |
| England | 355/5 | Pakistan | 20 Nov 2015 | England won |
| Australia | 327/7 | Pakistan | 31 Mar 2019 | Australia won |
| South Africa | 317/5 | Pakistan | 8 Nov 2010 | South Africa won |
| Pakistan | 307/7 | Australia | 31 Mar 2019 | Pakistan lost |
| Pakistan | 292/6 | Sri Lanka | 13 Oct 2017 | Pakistan won |
| Sri Lanka | 287/8 | Pakistan | 20 Dec 2013 | Sri Lanka won |
| Scotland | 287/5 | PNG | 13 Apr 2022 | Scotland won |
| India | 285/7 | Hong Kong | 18 Sep 2018 | India won |
| Pakistan | 284/4 | Sri Lanka | 20 Dec 2013 | Pakistan lost |
| Scotland | 284/3 | PNG | 9 Apr 2022 | Scotland won |
Average Score in ODIs at Dubai International Stadium
While several modern ODI grounds frequently see teams scoring above 300, Dubai International Stadium typically offers more balanced conditions, resulting in relatively moderate totals. Due to the stadium’s slow pitch, long boundaries, and often dry conditions, matches here are typically lower-scoring and tend to favor bowlers — especially spinners in the second innings.
Here’s a breakdown of average scores at the venue:
| Innings | Average Score |
| 1st Innings | 234 |
| 2nd Innings | 211 |
| Overall Avg | 222 |
What Affects the Scoring at Dubai?
- Pitch Behavior: Slow and dry surface makes stroke play difficult.
- Dew Factor: Chasing can get easier if there’s dew, but not always predictable.
- Toss Impact: Teams winning the toss often prefer to bowl, hoping for easier conditions later — though defending totals have seen better success historically.
While the Dubai International Stadium’s average score in ODIs may seem low compared to batting-friendly grounds, the venue has still seen some thrilling encounters, where teams have defended even below-par totals with disciplined bowling and sharp fielding.
Lowest Team Scores in ODIs at Dubai International Stadium
The Dubai International Cricket Stadium has not only hosted high-scoring thrillers but has also witnessed some of the lowest totals in ODI history, especially from associate nations. The slow pitch and long boundaries challenge even experienced batting lineups, especially when there’s early movement or scoreboard pressure.
| Team | Score | Opponent | Match Date | Result |
| Namibia | 91 | UAE | 23 Feb 2023 | Lost by 7 wickets |
| UAE | 97 | PNG | 5 Mar 2023 | Lost by 5 wickets |
| Nepal | 103 | UAE | 21 Mar 2022 | Lost by 99 runs |
| Hong Kong | 116 | Pakistan | 16 Sep 2018 | Lost by 8 wickets |
| Nepal | 120 | UAE | 18 Mar 2022 | Lost by 6 runs |
| PNG | 122 | Scotland | 9 Apr 2022 | Lost by 4 wickets |
| Sri Lanka | 124 | Bangladesh | 15 Sep 2018 | Lost by 137 runs |
| Sri Lanka | 131 | Pakistan | 11 Nov 2011 | Lost by 5 wickets |
| UAE | 131 | PNG | 28 Feb 2023 | Lost by 7 wickets |
| UAE | 132 | Scotland | 3 Mar 2024 | Lost by 5 wickets |
Top Bowling Figures in ODIs at Dubai International Stadium
Dubai International Stadium has not only witnessed batting fireworks but also some unforgettable bowling performances. The venue’s flat yet slow pitch provides just enough for spinners and accurate pacers to thrive, especially under lights. Over the years, several bowlers have produced match-winning spells that turned the tide for their teams.
Here’s a look at the best bowling figures in ODIs at Dubai International Stadium:
| Bowler | Figures | Team | Opponent | Match Date | Result |
| M. Hafeez | 4/41 | Pakistan | South Africa | 8 Nov 2010 | Pakistan won |
| P. Cummins | 3/23 | Australia | Pakistan | 31 Mar 2019 | Australia won |
| A. Zampa | 4/43 | Australia | Pakistan | 29 Mar 2019 | Australia won |
| R. Jadeja | 4/29 | India | Hong Kong | 18 Sep 2018 | India won |
| D. Steyn | 4/40 | South Africa | Pakistan | 5 Nov 2010 | South Africa won |
| S. Afridi | 3/37 | Pakistan | Sri Lanka | 13 Oct 2017 | Pakistan won |
| B. Rankin | 3/33 | Ireland | Scotland | 2 Mar 2015 | Ireland won |
| G. Dockrell | 4/35 | Ireland | P.N.G. | 12 Feb 2022 | Ireland won |
| A. Khan | 4/47 | Oman | Namibia | 14 Mar 2022 | Oman won |
| S. Lakmal | 4/78 | Sri Lanka | Pakistan | 20 Dec 2013 | Sri Lanka won |
Toss Impact and Pitch Behavior at Dubai International Stadium
The Dubai International Stadium, with its drop-in pitch and desert climate, presents unique challenges for teams — making the toss a potentially game-defining moment.
Toss Impact
Over the years, captains have often chosen to bat first after winning the toss, especially in day-night matches. The reason? Dew becomes a major factor in the second innings, making the ball difficult for bowlers, especially spinners, to grip. However, chasing teams have also enjoyed success here due to the relatively consistent bounce and quick outfield.
Toss Stats Snapshot (ODIs at Dubai):
- Bat First after Toss Win: ~60% of matches
- Win % when Batting First: ~55%
- Win % when Chasing: ~45%
Final Words
Dubai International Stadium has carved its place in ODI history with thrilling encounters, record-breaking performances, and world-class cricketing action. From England’s explosive 355-run display to spin-dominated bowling masterclasses, the venue offers a perfect blend of high-scoring drama and tactical brilliance. With its unique pitch conditions, toss dynamics, and consistent hosting of marquee tournaments, Dubai continues to be a favorite battleground for players and fans.
FAQs about Dubai International Stadium ODI Records
Q1. What is the highest team score in an ODI at Dubai International Stadium?
A: The highest ODI team score at Dubai International Stadium is 355/5 by England against Pakistan on November 20, 2015.
Q2. What is the average score in ODIs at Dubai International Stadium?
A: The average first innings score in ODIs at Dubai is typically between 230 to 250, depending on pitch and weather conditions.
Q3. Which bowler has the best bowling figures in an ODI at Dubai?
A: Imran Tahir holds one of the best bowling figures at the venue with 5/45 against Pakistan in 2013.
Q4. How does the toss impact ODI matches at Dubai International Stadium?
A: Winning the toss often influences team strategy. Many captains prefer to bat first due to the slower pitch in the second innings, but dew in day-night games can favor chasing teams too.
Q5. Is Dubai International Stadium a batting or bowling-friendly venue?
A: The stadium offers balanced conditions, with early support for pacers, turn for spinners, and a true bounce that rewards batters who settle in.
