In One Day International (ODI) cricket, who became the first batsman to score three double centuries?

Introduction / Context:
One Day International (ODI) cricket has seen some very high individual scores, but scoring a double century in this format is still rare because each team faces only 50 overs. This question tests knowledge of a major batting milestone in modern ODI history: the identity of the first batsman to score three double centuries in ODIs, a record that highlights both consistency and explosive scoring ability in limited overs cricket.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Format considered is men's One Day International (ODI) cricket.
• The focus is on double centuries, that is, individual scores of 200 runs or more in a single ODI innings.
• We must identify the first batsman to achieve three such ODI double centuries.
• Options include well known modern power hitters and run makers.

Concept / Approach:
To answer this question, we use factual recall from international cricket records. Double centuries in ODIs were historically very rare, but in the modern era a few players have crossed this landmark. We must distinguish between players who have scored one double century and the unique player who has scored three. Knowledge of specific famous innings, including opponents and venues, helps confirm the correct answer and avoid confusion with other big hitters who have impressive but different records.

Rohit Sharma stands out because he has produced multiple record breaking innings, including the highest individual ODI score. By recalling these innings and confirming how many times each player passed 200 in ODIs, we can confidently select the correct option.

Step-by-Step Solution:
1. List prominent ODI double centurions: Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag, Rohit Sharma, Chris Gayle and a few others have reached or passed 200 in ODIs. 2. Identify how many ODI double centuries each relevant batsman has scored: most of them have exactly one ODI double century. 3. Recall that Rohit Sharma scored 209 against Australia in Bengaluru in 2013. 4. Remember that he later scored 264 against Sri Lanka at Eden Gardens, Kolkata, which is the highest individual ODI score. 5. Recall his third double century, 208 not out against Sri Lanka in Mohali in 2017. 6. No other batsman has three ODI double centuries, so Rohit Sharma is the first to reach this landmark.

Verification / Alternative check:
A quick way to verify is to consult official ODI records or reputable cricket statistics databases, which list individual scores and milestones. These records clearly show three scores of 200 or more for Rohit Sharma and at most one for other famous big hitters. Cross checking multiple sources leads to the same conclusion and confirms that he is the first batsman with three ODI double centuries.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Virat Kohli: He has many ODI centuries and excellent averages, but has not scored an ODI double century.
• Chris Gayle: He has scored an ODI double century at the World Cup, but only one such innings, not three.
• AB de Villiers: Known for his fastest century and 150 in ODIs, but he has not reached 200 even once in an ODI.
• Martin Guptill: He has one ODI double century at a World Cup, but not three.

Common Pitfalls:
Many learners confuse overall greatness or high strike rates with this specific record. Another frequent mistake is to assume that a destructive batsman like AB de Villiers or Chris Gayle must hold the record simply because of their reputation. Some also mix up Test double centuries with ODI double centuries, which are much rarer. Careful reading of the format and the exact number of double centuries avoids these errors.

Final Answer:
The first batsman to score three double centuries in One Day International (ODI) cricket is Rohit Sharma.