Top 10 Highest Run Scorers in ODI Cricket | All-Time Cricket Legends
Cricket fans love watching sixes and centuries, but it takes years of hard work, consistency, and class to become one of the highest run scorers in ODI cricket. In this article, we bring you the top 10 ODI run scorers of all time – legends who ruled the 50-over format and set benchmarks for generations.
1. Sachin Tendulkar – 18,426 Runs
When it comes to ODIs, Sachin Tendulkar is a name that echoes with records. The Master Blaster played 463 matches, scoring 18,426 runs with 49 centuries – a record untouched till now.
Read Sachin Tendulkar’s Full Career Stats
2. Kumar Sangakkara – 14,234 Runs
The Sri Lankan wicketkeeper-batsman was the heart of his team for over a decade. Sangakkara’s elegant stroke play and hunger for big scores made him the second-highest run scorer in ODI cricket.
3. Ricky Ponting – 13,704 Runs
Australia’s most successful captain, Ricky Ponting, led by example. With 30 centuries and 82 fifties, his consistency in ODIs was unmatched during his time.
4. Sanath Jayasuriya – 13,430 Runs
The aggressive left-hander from Sri Lanka redefined opening batting. Jayasuriya could tear apart any bowling attack and was also handy with the ball.
5. Virat Kohli – 13,848+ Runs
Still playing and chasing records, Virat Kohli is a modern-day great. With over 50 centuries in ODIs, he is likely to surpass even Sachin’s tally if form continues.
6. Mahela Jayawardene – 12,650 Runs
A technically sound middle-order batsman, Jayawardene provided strength to Sri Lanka’s batting order for nearly two decades.
7. Inzamam-ul-Haq – 11,739 Runs
One of Pakistan’s best batsmen, Inzamam had the ability to build innings and anchor chases, making him a key player in the 90s and early 2000s.
8. Jacques Kallis – 11,579 Runs
South Africa’s all-rounder Jacques Kallis combined power with grace. Apart from scoring runs, he took over 270 wickets in ODIs.
9. Sourav Ganguly – 11,363 Runs
Known as the Prince of Kolkata, Ganguly led India with fire and flair. His opening partnership with Sachin was one of the most feared in cricket history.
10. Rahul Dravid – 10,889 Runs
The Wall of Indian Cricket, Rahul Dravid, was known for his calm and composed style. While more famous for Tests, he was also a consistent ODI performer.
Honorable Mentions:
- MS Dhoni – 10,773 Runs
- Chris Gayle – 10,480 Runs
- Brian Lara – 10,405 Runs
ODI Cricket Records Table
| Rank | Player | Matches | Runs | 100s |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sachin Tendulkar | 463 | 18,426 | 49 |
| 2 | Kumar Sangakkara | 404 | 14,234 | 25 |
| 3 | Ricky Ponting | 375 | 13,704 | 30 |
| 4 | Sanath Jayasuriya | 445 | 13,430 | 28 |
| 5 | Virat Kohli | 292+ | 13,848+ | 50+ |
| 6 | Mahela Jayawardene | 448 | 12,650 | 19 |
| 7 | Inzamam-ul-Haq | 378 | 11,739 | 10 |
| 8 | Jacques Kallis | 328 | 11,579 | 17 |
| 9 | Sourav Ganguly | 311 | 11,363 | 22 |
| 10 | Rahul Dravid | 344 | 10,889 | 12 |
Data Source: ESPNcricinfo Records
Conclusion: Cricketing Royalty in ODI
These highest run scorers in ODI cricket are more than just stat-keepers – they are legends who’ve inspired millions. Whether it’s Tendulkar’s straight drive or Kohli’s chase masterclass, each player has a legacy that shapes world cricket.
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