In mens one day international cricket, which player holds the record for the highest individual score?

Introduction / Context:
This question examines your knowledge of batting records in mens one day international cricket. In ODIs, scoring a double century is rare, and exceeding 250 runs in a single innings is even more exceptional. The record for the highest individual score has changed hands over time, and candidates must know the latest record holder, not just earlier names. Rohit Sharma, Virender Sehwag, and others have all contributed to this progression.

Given Data / Assumptions:
• The format is mens ODI cricket.
• The question is about the highest individual score in a single innings, not about total career runs.
• The options list renowned batsmen known for huge innings and power hitting.
• Only one of them currently holds the record for the highest individual ODI score in the time frame relevant to this question.

Concept / Approach:
The key concept is to distinguish between various batting records and remember the specific numbers. Sachin Tendulkar was the first male player to score a double century in ODIs. Virender Sehwag later scored 219. Rohit Sharma then surpassed these and others with an innings of 264 runs against Sri Lanka in Kolkata. This 264 is the highest individual score in a mens ODI innings. Martin Guptill and Chris Gayle have also hit double centuries, but their scores are lower than 264.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recognise that the question asks for the current record for highest individual score in a mens ODI innings.Step 2: Recall that Rohit Sharma scored 264 against Sri Lanka, which is higher than earlier double centuries.Step 3: Compare that figure with known scores from other players like Sehwag, Guptill, and Gayle and confirm that none of them crossed 264.Step 4: Select Rohit Sharma as the correct answer from the options.

Verification / Alternative check:

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
• Virender Sehwag did hold the record briefly with 219, but his score has been surpassed by Rohit Sharma.
• Martin Guptill scored a huge 237 not out in a World Cup match, yet it is still less than 264.
• Chris Gayle scored 215 in a World Cup knock, which is below Rohit Sharma's figure.
• Sachin Tendulkar set the first double century record but did not reach 264, so he is not the holder of the highest individual score.

Common Pitfalls:
Many candidates remember that Sachin Tendulkar was the first to score an ODI double century and incorrectly assume he still holds the top record. Others recall the explosive innings of Chris Gayle or Martin Guptill and confuse those numbers. Another source of confusion is mixing Test and ODI records. To avoid these mistakes, connect the number 264 specifically with Rohit Sharma and remember that this remains the benchmark for mens ODI batting in a single innings in the context of this question.

Final Answer:
The correct answer is Rohit Sharma, who scored 264 runs in a single mens ODI innings, the highest individual score in that format for the scope of this question.