One-day international (ODI) cricket has witnessed the rise of extraordinary batsmen who have not only entertained fans but also etched their names in the record books. The quest for runs has been a relentless pursuit, and a select few have emerged as the top run-scorers in the history of ODI cricket. Let’s delve into the statistics and profiles of the top ten run-getters in this exhilarating format.
1. Sachin Tendulkar (IND)
- Span: 1989-2012
- Matches: 463
- Innings: 452
- Runs: 18,426
- Highest Score: 200*
- Average: 44.83
- Strike Rate: 86.23
- Centuries: 49
- Fifties: 96
- Fours: 2016
- Sixes: 195
Sachin Tendulkar, the ‘Master Blaster,’ stands atop the ODI run-scoring charts with an unparalleled legacy. His 18,426 runs, including 49 centuries and 96 fifties, showcase his longevity and consistency in the format.
2. Kumar Sangakkara (Asia/ICC/SL)
- Span: 2000-2015
- Matches: 404
- Innings: 380
- Runs: 14,234
- Highest Score: 169
- Average: 41.98
- Strike Rate: 78.86
- Centuries: 25
- Fifties: 93
- Fours: 1385
- Sixes: 88
Kumar Sangakkara’s elegant stroke play and solid technique guided him to 14,234 runs in ODIs. The former Sri Lankan captain left an indelible mark with 25 centuries and 93 half-centuries.
3. Virat Kohli (IND)
- Span: 2008-2023
- Matches: 291
- Innings: 279
- Runs: 13,794
- Highest Score: 183
- Average: 58.69
- Strike Rate: 93.62
- Centuries: 50
- Fifties: 71
- Fours: 1290
- Sixes: 151
Virat Kohli, the modern-day maestro, has redefined ODI batting. With an average close to 59, Kohli’s 13,794 runs include 50 centuries, making him a run-scoring machine.
4. Ricky Ponting (AUS/ICC)
- Span: 1995-2012
- Matches: 375
- Innings: 365
- Runs: 13,704
- Highest Score: 164
- Average: 42.03
- Strike Rate: 80.39
- Centuries: 30
- Fifties: 82
- Fours: 1231
- Sixes: 162
Ricky Ponting, the Australian stalwart, amassed 13,704 runs, leading his team with distinction. His aggressive approach yielded 30 centuries and 82 half-centuries.
5. Sanath Jayasuriya (Asia/SL)
- Span: 1989-2011
- Matches: 445
- Innings: 433
- Runs: 13,430
- Highest Score: 189
- Average: 32.36
- Strike Rate: 91.20
- Centuries: 28
- Fifties: 68
- Fours: 1500
- Sixes: 270
Sanath Jayasuriya’s explosive batting at the top of the order revolutionized ODI cricket. His 13,430 runs, including 28 centuries and 68 fifties, set the stage for Sri Lanka’s success.
6. Mahela Jayawardene (Asia/SL)
- Span: 1998-2015
- Matches: 448
- Innings: 418
- Runs: 12,650
- Highest Score: 144
- Average: 33.37
- Strike Rate: 78.96
- Centuries: 19
- Fifties: 77
- Fours: 1119
- Sixes: 76
Mahela Jayawardene’s elegance and finesse translated into 12,650 runs in ODIs. The former Sri Lankan captain’s ability to anchor the innings made him a linchpin in the middle order.
7. Inzamam-ul-Haq (Asia/PAK)
- Span: 1991-2007
- Matches: 378
- Innings: 350
- Runs: 11,739
- Highest Score: 137*
- Average: 39.52
- Strike Rate: 74.24
- Centuries: 10
- Fifties: 83
- Fours: 971
- Sixes: 144
Inzamam-ul-Haq, the Pakistani batting maestro, contributed 11,739 runs to his team’s cause. His ability to play crucial innings under pressure makes him a legendary figure.
8. Jacques Kallis (Afr/ICC/SA)
- Span: 1996-2014
- Matches: 328
- Innings: 314
- Runs: 11,579
- Highest Score: 139
- Average: 44.36
- Strike Rate: 72.89
- Centuries: 17
- Fifties: 86
- Fours: 911
- Sixes: 137
Jacques Kallis, the South African all-rounder, showcased his prowess with both bat and ball. His 11,579 runs, complemented by 17 centuries, underscore his versatility.
9. Sourav Ganguly (Asia/IND)
- Span: 1992-2007
- Matches: 311
- Innings: 300
- Runs: 11,363
- Highest Score: 183
- Average: 41.02
- Strike Rate: 73.70
- Centuries: 22
- Fifties: 72
- Fours: 1122
- Sixes: 190
Sourav Ganguly, the ‘Prince of Kolkata,’ played a pivotal role in India’s cricketing renaissance. His aggressive captaincy and elegant batting contributed to 11,363 runs in ODIs.
10. Rahul Dravid (Asia/ICC/IND)
- Span: 1996-2011
- Matches: 344
- Innings: 318
- Runs: 10,889
- Highest Score: 153
- Average: 39.16
- Strike Rate: 71.23
- Centuries: 12
- Fifties: 83
- Fours: 950
Rahul Dravid, known for his technical brilliance, scored 10,889 runs in ODIs. The ‘Wall’ of Indian cricket provided stability and resilience in the middle order.
The list of top run-scorers in ODI cricket is a testament to the skill, determination, and longevity of these cricketing legends. As the current generation strives to make its mark, these records serve as benchmarks, inspiring future batsmen to etch their names in the rich history of ODI cricket.