For the people of countries like India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Australia, cricket is more than just a game, it is an emotion for them. From all formats of cricket, One Day Internationals (ODIs) are one of the most loved format. These matches have given us many special moments like close finishes, big run chases, and amazing performances. But fans remember the most is how some players score lots of runs.
In this article, we will look at the top players who have scored the most runs in ODI cricket. Let’s get started!
Most runs in ODI history
1. Sachin Tendulkar (India) – 18,426 Runs
Talking about the ODI records, one name from the team India that shines at the top is Sachin Tendulkar, who is often called as the “God of Cricket.” Sachin’s ODI career spanned from 1989 to 2012, in which he played 463 matches and scored a record 18,426 runs.
Through his consistency, technique, and hunger for runs, he became the first player to score a double century in ODIs, a record that once seemed impossible. He also holds the record of 49 centuries in ODI cricket.
2. Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka) – 14,234 Runs
Second name in the list is Sri Lanka’s elegant left-hander, Kumar Sangakkara. He scored 14,234 runs in 404 ODI matches between 2000 and 2015. Sangakkara was known for his stylish batting and sharp cricketing brain. Though he started as a wicketkeeper-batsman and became one of the finest top-order batters in ODI history. He hit 25 centuries and 93 fifties.
3. Ricky Ponting (Australia) – 13,704 Runs
Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting was the backbone of Australia’s golden era in cricket. He played 375 ODIs from 1995 to 2012 and scored 13,704 runs. A fearless batsman, Ponting combined aggression with skill and was a nightmare for bowlers during his prime.
Ponting led Australia to two World Cup victories (2003 and 2007) and was known for his ability to rise to big occasions. With 30 centuries and 82 half-centuries, he was both a leader and a match-winner.
4. Sanath Jayasuriya (Sri Lanka) – 13,430 Runs
If there is one man who changed the way opening batting was viewed in ODIs, it is Sanath Jayasuriya. He revolutionized power hitting at the top of the order with his aggressive style, especially during the 1996 World Cup.
Jayasuriya scored 13,430 runs in 445 matches from 1989 to 2011. His fearless approach set the tone for many Sri Lankan victories, and he was also a handy left-arm spinner. With 28 centuries and over 300 sixes, he was a true all-round performer.
5. Virat Kohli (India) – 13,848+ Runs (and counting)
In the Indian cricket team, Virat Kohli is the only modern-day cricketer who is currently active and chasing records with full determination. From making his debut in 2008 and till date, Kohli has already crossed 13,800 runs and continues to rise up the ranks.
His strength lies in his incredible chase-master skills. He thrives under pressure and is considered one of the best finishers in ODI history. Known for his intensity and fitness, he has scored 50+ centuries in ODIs, recently breaking Tendulkar’s record.
6. Mahela Jayawardene (Sri Lanka) – 12,650 Runs
Another Sri Lankan legend, Mahela Jayawardene, was a technically sound batsman known for his grace and leadership. In his 18-year-long career (1998–2015), he scored 12,650 runs in 448 matches.
Jayawardene was not just a consistent performer, but also a team man. Whether anchoring innings or finishing off matches, he played with a calmness that made him one of the most respected figures in cricket. He also captained Sri Lanka to the World Cup final in 2007.
7. Inzamam-ul-Haq (Pakistan) – 11,739 Runs
Pakistan’s batting great Inzamam-ul-Haq was known for his solid technique and calm temperament. He played 378 ODIs from 1991 to 2007 and scored 11,739 runs. Inzamam could build an innings patiently or accelerate when needed.
Though not the most athletic in the field, his batting made up for it. He played a key role in Pakistan’s 1992 World Cup victory and was one of the most reliable middle-order batsmen in ODI history.
8. Jacques Kallis (South Africa) – 11,579 Runs
A complete all-rounder, Jacques Kallis was South Africa’s batting rock for over a decade. In his 328 ODIs, he scored 11,579 runs and also picked up over 270 wickets. He was known for his textbook batting and could bat for long periods without taking risks.
Kallis scored 17 centuries and 86 fifties, showing his reliability and control. His contribution to South African cricket was immense both with the bat and the ball.
9. Sourav Ganguly (India) – 11,363 Runs
Sourav Ganguly, also known as “Dada,” was one of India’s most influential captains and a top-class left-handed batsman. He scored 11,363 runs in 311 ODIs. Ganguly was known for his fearless batting, especially against pace bowlers.
His partnership with Tendulkar at the top of the order became legendary. Ganguly’s cover drives and aggressive captaincy brought a new attitude to Indian cricket during the early 2000s.
10. Rahul Dravid (India) – 10,889 Runs
Known as “The Wall,” Rahul Dravid was more famous for his Test exploits, but he also made a significant impact in ODIs. He scored 10,889 runs in 344 matches, mostly in the middle order.
Dravid was not the flashiest player, but he was consistent, dependable, and adaptable. At one point, he even kept wickets for the Indian team to allow more flexibility in team selection. His ability to rotate strike and play under pressure made him a valuable asset.
Final Thoughts
To sum it up, the above list of Most Runs in ODI History is filled with legends who shaped the game and inspired millions. From Tendulkar’s divine touch to Kohli’s modern-day brilliance, each name on this list represents years of dedication, sweat, and cricketing excellence.
As the game continues to evolve, new players will emerge, but these legends will always be remembered for their incredible contributions to ODI cricket. They did not just score runs but they created memories that fans cherish even today.
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