Top 10 Highest Run-Scorers In ODI Cricket History

One Day International (ODI) cricket has been a transformative force in the cricketing world since its inception in 1971. Unlike the drawn-out format of Test matches, ODIs provide a decisive result in a single day, adding a thrilling edge to the sport. Over the decades, this format has witnessed extraordinary performances from some of the greatest batsmen in cricket history. Here, we explore the top 10 highest run-scorers in ODI cricket .

1. Sachin Tendulkar - 18,426 Runs


Topping the chart is India's cricket legend, Sachin Tendulkar. The first cricketer to hit a double century in ODIs, Tendulkar amassed 18,426 runs in 463 matches. His career, spanning from 1989 to 2012, includes 49 centuries and 96 half-centuries, making him a true icon of the sport.

2. Kumar Sangakkara - 14,234 Runs


Sri Lankan maestro Kumar Sangakkara stands second with 14,234 runs in 404 ODIs. A stellar wicketkeeper-batsman, Sangakkara's career from 2000 to 2015 featured 25 centuries and 93 half-centuries, showcasing his consistency and class.

3. Virat Kohli - 13,848 Runs


Currently, the finest ODI batsman, Virat Kohli of India, has scored 13,848 runs in 292 matches. Known for his aggressive yet elegant batting style, Kohli has racked up 50 centuries and 72 half-centuries since his debut, making significant contributions to India’s cricketing success.

4. Ricky Ponting - 13,704 Runs


Australia’s former captain, Ricky Ponting, is fourth on the list with 13,704 runs in 375 ODIs. Ponting, who played from 1995 to 2012, led Australia to World Cup victories in 2003 and 2007, and notched up 30 centuries and 82 half-centuries.

5. Sanath Jayasuriya - 13,430 Runs


Sri Lankan great Sanath Jayasuriya, known for his explosive batting, scored 13,430 runs in 445 ODIs. From 1989 to 2011, Jayasuriya hit 28 centuries and 68 half-centuries, redefining the role of an opening batsman.

6. Mahela Jayawardene - 12,650 Runs


Another Sri Lankan legend, Mahela Jayawardene, scored 12,650 runs in 448 ODIs. His career, spanning from 1998 to 2015, included 19 centuries and 77 half-centuries, making him one of the most dependable batsmen in ODI history.

7. Inzamam-ul-Haq - 11,739 Runs


Inzamam-ul-Haq, a cornerstone of Pakistan’s batting lineup, accumulated 11,739 runs in 378 ODIs. Playing from 1991 to 2007, Inzamam’s tally includes 10 centuries and 83 half-centuries, cementing his legacy as a cricketing great.

8. Jacques Kallis - 11,579 Runs


South African all-rounder Jacques Kallis scored 11,579 runs in 328 ODIs. Known for his impeccable technique and versatility, Kallis’s career from 1996 to 2014 saw him hit 17 centuries and 86 half-centuries.

9. Sourav Ganguly - 11,363 Runs


Former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly, known for his aggressive leadership and stylish batting, amassed 11,363 runs in 311 ODIs. Between 1992 and 2007, Ganguly scored 22 centuries and 72 half-centuries, leading India to several notable victories.

10. Rahul Dravid - 10,889 Runs


Rahul Dravid, often celebrated for his Test cricket prowess, also shines in ODIs with 10,889 runs in 344 matches. His career, spanning from 1996 to 2012, includes 12 centuries and 83 half-centuries, showcasing his adaptability across formats.

These ten players have left an indelible mark on ODI cricket with their remarkable performances and sheer volume of runs. Their contributions have not only elevated the status of ODI cricket but also inspired countless aspiring cricketers around the world.