Babar Azam holds the record for the fastest 5000 runs in ODI cricket, achieving this remarkable feat in just 99 innings against New Zealand at Karachi on 5 May 2023. His consistency, timing, and technique have made him one of the most formidable batsmen in modern-day ODI cricket. Achieving 5000 runs faster than any other player highlights his ability to perform under pressure and dominate bowlers across conditions.
Reaching 5000 runs in ODI cricket is a milestone that only elite players achieve. Legends like AB de Villiers, Virat Kohli, and Hashim Amla are part of this elite club, each leaving their mark on the game with extraordinary innings, record-breaking performances, and unmatched dedication to the sport. This blog explores the ODI fastest 5000 runs achievers, their stats, and the journeys behind their historic records.
List of Players with the Fastest 5000 Runs in ODI Cricket
Achieving 5000 runs in ODI cricket is a testament to a batsman’s talent, perseverance, and ability to shine under pressure. The table below highlights the elite players who accomplished the fastest 5000 runs in ODI cricket, showcasing their records, match performances, and the incredible journeys that led them to this milestone.
| Player | Time | Matches | Innings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Babar Azam (PAK) | 7y 339d | 99 | 97 |
| HM Amla (SA) | 6y 313d | 104 | 101 |
| IVA Richards (WI) | 11y 237d | 126 | 114 |
| V Kohli (IND) | 5y 95d | 120 | 114 |
| SD Hope (WI) | 7y 17d | 119 | 114 |
| DA Warner (AUS) | 10y 361d | 117 | 115 |
| JE Root (ENG) | 6y 40d | 122 | 116 |
| Q de Kock (SA) | 7y 16d | 116 | 116 |
| BC Lara (WI) | 6y 359d | 120 | 118 |
| S Dhawan (IND) | 8y 95d | 119 | 118 |
1. Babar Azam
Babar Azam became the fastest batsman to reach 5000 runs in ODI cricket, achieving the milestone in just 99 innings against New Zealand at Karachi on 5 May 2023. His consistency, calm temperament, and ability to anchor innings under pressure have made him Pakistan’s premier ODI batsman.
In 134 ODI matches, Babar has scored 6,291 runs at an impressive average of 54.23, including 19 centuries and 37 fifties. With a highest score of 158, a strike rate of 87.63, and 580 boundaries, his elegant stroke play and sharp cricketing acumen continue to make him one of the most dominant batsmen in modern ODI cricket.
key points for Babar Azam in ODIs based on your paragraph:
- Fastest to 5000 ODI runs – achieved in 99 innings vs New Zealand (5 May 2023, Karachi).
- Matches Played: 134 ODIs.
- Total Runs: 6,291.
- Batting Average: 54.23.
- Centuries/Fifties: 19 centuries and 37 fifties.
- Highest Score: 158.
- Strike Rate: 87.63.
- Boundaries: 580 (fours and sixes combined).
2. Hashim Amla
Hashim Amla is celebrated for his elegant stroke play, calm temperament, and exceptional consistency at the top of the order. Known for anchoring innings under pressure, he combines patience with precision, making him one of the most reliable and classy batsmen of his era.
key ODI career points for Hashim Amla:
- Matches Played: 181 ODIs
- Innings: 178 | Not Outs: 14
- Total Runs: 8,113
- Highest Score: 159
- Batting Average: 49.46
- Balls Faced: 9,178 | Strike Rate: 88.39
- Centuries/Fifties: 27 centuries and 39 fifties
- Boundaries: 822 fours and 53 sixes
- Catches: 87 | Stumpings: 0
3. Sir Vivian Richards
Sir Vivian Richards, one of cricket’s most destructive batsmen, was known for his fearless stroke play and ability to dominate any game. His power, timing, and aggressive style made him a cornerstone of the West Indies team and one of the greatest ODI batsmen of all time.
ODI career key points for Viv Richards
- Matches Played: 187 ODIs
- Innings: 167 | Not Outs: 24
- Total Runs: 6,721
- Highest Score: 189* (not out)
- Batting Average: 47.00
- Balls Faced: 7,451 | Strike Rate: 90.20
- Centuries/Fifties: 11 centuries and 45 fifties
- Catches: 100 | Stumpings: 0
4. Virat Kohli
Virat Kohli reached 5000 runs in ODI cricket in just 120 innings, showcasing his extraordinary consistency and ability to perform under pressure. Known for his aggressive yet technically sound batting, Kohli has been a cornerstone of India’s ODI lineup for over a decade.
key ODI career points for Virat Kohli:
- Matches Played: 305 ODIs
- Innings: 293 | Not Outs: 46
- Total Runs: 14,255
- Highest Score: 183
- Batting Average: 57.71
- Balls Faced: 15,285 | Strike Rate: 93.26
- Centuries/Fifties: 51 centuries and 75 fifties
- Boundaries: 1,332 fours and 152 sixes
- Catches: 164 | Stumpings: 0
Read More: Most Runs in International Cricket
5. Shai Hope
Shai Hope reached 5000 ODI runs in 114 innings, highlighting his calm temperament and ability to build innings under pressure. He has become a key figure in the West Indies’ batting lineup.
Here are the key ODI career points for Shai Hope based on the stats you provided:
- Matches Played: 145 ODIs
- Innings: 140 | Not Outs: 21
- Total Runs: 5,951
- Highest Score: 170
- Batting Average: 50.00
- Balls Faced: 7,527 | Strike Rate: 79.06
- Centuries/Fifties: 18 centuries and 30 fifties
- Boundaries: 469 fours and 115 sixes
- Catches/Stumpings: 148 catches and 15 stumpings
6. David Warner (AUS)
David Warner crossed 5000 ODI runs in 115 innings, combining explosive stroke play with aggressive intent. His fearless approach at the top of the order has made him a vital asset for Australia.
- Matches Played: 161 ODIs
- Innings: 159 | Not Outs: 6
- Total Runs: 6,932
- Highest Score: 179
- Batting Average: 45.30
- Balls Faced: 7,127 | Strike Rate: 97.26
- Centuries/Fifties: 22 centuries and 33 fifties
- Boundaries: 733 fours and 130 sixes
- Catches/Stumpings: 71 catches, 0 stumpings
7. JE Root
JE Root reached 5000 runs in ODIs in record time, establishing himself as one of England’s most dependable batsmen. Over 122 matches, he has scored 5,096 runs at an average of 50.39, including 12 centuries and 29 fifties.
Known for his solid technique and ability to anchor innings, Root has a highest score of 133, along with 580 boundaries. His consistency, calm temperament, and ability to perform in crucial situations make him a key figure in England’s batting lineup.
key ODI career points for Joe Root:
- Matches Played: 185 ODIs
- Innings: 174 | Not Outs: 24
- Total Runs: 7,328
- Highest Score: 166* (not out)
- Batting Average: 48.85
- Balls Faced: 8,359 | Strike Rate: 87.66
- Centuries/Fifties: 19 centuries and 43 fifties
- Boundaries: 595 fours and 53 sixes
- Catches/Stumpings: 89 catches, 0 stumpings
8. Quinton de Kock (SA)
Quinton de Kock achieved 5000 ODI runs in 116 innings, impressing with his aggressive batting and ability to change games quickly. He remains a key figure in South Africa’s batting order.
Here are the key points for Quinton de Kock’s ODI career:
- Matches: 155 | Innings: 155 | Not Outs: 7
- Runs: 6,770
- Highest Score: 178
- Batting Average: 45.74
- Strike Rate: 96.64
- Centuries: 21 | Fifties: 30
9. Brian Lara (WI)
Brian Lara reached 5000 ODI runs in 118 innings, showcasing elegance and power in his stroke play. His ability to dominate bowlers made him one of the West Indies’ most feared batsmen.
Here are the key points (ODI only) for Brian Lara 👇
- Matches: 299 | Innings: 289
- Total Runs: 10,405
- Highest Score: 169
- Batting Average: 40.48
- Strike Rate: 79.51
- Centuries/Fifties: 19 / 63
- Boundaries: 1,042 fours & 133 sixes
10. Shikhar Dhawan (IND)
Here are the key points ODI for Shikhar Dhawan
- Matches: 167 | Innings: 164
- Runs: 6,793
- Highest Score: 143
- Average: 44.11
- Strike Rate: 91.35
- Centuries/Fifties: 17 / 39
- Boundaries: 842 fours & 79 sixes
Shikhar Dhawan crossed 5000 ODI runs in 118 innings, known for his aggressive starts and consistency in building innings. He has been a reliable top-order batsman for India.
Final Words
Reaching 5000 runs in ODI cricket is a remarkable milestone that only the most talented and consistent batsmen achieve. From Babar Azam’s record-breaking feat to legends like AB de Villiers, Virat Kohli, and Hashim Amla, these players have not only showcased extraordinary skill but also redefined standards in limited-overs cricket. Their dedication, resilience, and ability to perform under pressure serve as an inspiration for aspiring cricketers around the world. As the game continues to evolve, these records will remain a testament to the greatness of modern-day batting legends.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who is the fastest player to reach 5000 runs in ODI cricket?
Babar Azam holds the record, reaching 5000 runs in just 99 innings against New Zealand at Karachi on 5 May 2023.
2. How many innings did Virat Kohli take to reach 5000 ODI runs?
Virat Kohli achieved this milestone in 120 innings, showcasing his remarkable consistency and batting prowess.
3. Which other players are among the fastest to 5000 ODI runs?
Other top players include Hashim Amla, AB de Villiers, JE Root, Shai Hope, Quinton de Kock, and KS Williamson, all of whom reached the milestone in impressive times.
4. How significant is reaching 5000 runs in ODI cricket?
Crossing 5000 runs in ODIs is considered a major milestone, reflecting a player’s skill, consistency, and longevity in international limited-overs cricket.
5. Are these records only for ODIs?
Yes, the records mentioned here are specifically for One Day Internationals and do not include Test or T20I statistics.
