Scoring 3000 runs in ODI cricket is a remarkable milestone that reflects a player’s consistency, skill, and impact on the game. While many batsmen achieve this landmark, only a few have reached it in record time, setting benchmarks in cricket history.
In this article, we explore the fastest 3000 runs in ODI cricket, highlighting the players who accomplished this feat, the number of matches and innings they took, and the records that make them stand out among cricket’s elite..
Top 10 Players with Fastest 3000 Runs in ODI Cricket
India has produced some of the most consistent and talented batsmen in ODI cricket, and the race to reach 3000 runs quickly highlights their excellence. Shikhar Dhawan leads the pack, reaching the milestone in the fewest innings among Indians with his aggressive opening style.
Virat Kohli follows closely, known for his consistency and remarkable chasing ability. KL Rahul, Navjot Singh Sidhu, and Sourav Ganguly complete the list, each combining skill and temperament to score heavily in limited-overs cricket.
Together, these five players showcase India’s strength in producing top-order batsmen capable of achieving the ODI fastest 3000 runs milestone.
| Player | ODI Debut | Time Taken | Matches | Innings |
| HM Amla (SA) | 9 Mar 2008 | 4y 172d | 59 | 57 |
| SD Hope (WI) | 16 Nov 2016 | 3y 36d | 72 | 67 |
| Fakhar Zaman (PAK) | 7 Jun 2017 | 5y 326d | 67 | 67 |
| Imam-ul-Haq (PAK) | 18 Oct 2017 | 5y 357d | 68 | 67 |
| Babar Azam (PAK) | 31 May 2015 | 4y 26d | 70 | 68 |
| IVA Richards (WI) | 7 Jun 1975 | 8y 359d | 74 | 69 |
| CG Greenidge (WI) | 11 Jun 1975 | 11y 128d | 72 | 72 |
| G Kirsten (SA) | 14 Dec 1993 | 3y 357d | 72 | 72 |
| S Dhawan (IND) | 20 Oct 2010 | 5y 92d | 73 | 72 |
| JE Root (ENG) | 11 Jan 2013 | 3y 234d | 77 | 72 |
Hashim Amla – South Africa’s Run Machine
Hashim Amla holds the record for the fastest 3000 runs in ODI cricket, reaching the milestone in just 57 innings. Known for his elegant stroke play and flawless timing, Amla dominated bowlers around the world with ease and consistency.
His ability to adapt to all conditions made him one of South Africa’s finest batsmen in the modern era. From his ODI debut in 2008 to achieving this feat in 2012, Amla’s remarkable form and calm approach set a benchmark that remains hard to beat.
Shai Hope – West Indies’ Young Star
Shai Hope has become the backbone of the West Indies batting lineup. His calm approach and solid technique make him one of the most reliable ODI players today. Reaching the second-fastest 3000 runs in ODI shows how consistent he has been from the start of his career.
Hope does not rely on power; instead, he builds his innings with timing and smart shot selection. His steady rise proves he is one of the brightest stars in West Indies cricket.
Fakhar Zaman – Record-Setting Opener for Pakistan
Fakhar Zaman quickly became a star for Pakistan after his ODI debut in 2017. By reaching 3000 runs in 67 matches and 67 innings, he joined the list of players with the ODI fastest 3000 runs.
With his attacking shots, strong technique, and composure in pressure situations, Zaman has played crucial innings that helped Pakistan win key matches, earning him recognition as one of the country’s top openers
Imam-ul-Haq – Pakistan’s Stylish Opener
Imam-ul-Haq made his ODI debut on 18 October 2017 and quickly established himself as a technically sound and dependable opener for Pakistan. He reached 3000 ODI runs in just 68 matches and 67 innings, achieving this milestone in 5 years and 357 days.
Known for his elegant stroke play, excellent timing, and ability to build long innings, Imam has often anchored Pakistan’s batting in crucial matches. Whether facing pace or spin, he demonstrates remarkable composure and consistency. His performances in high-pressure encounters, including ICC tournaments and bilateral series, have cemented his reputation as one of Pakistan’s most reliable limited-overs batsmen.
Babar Azam – Pakistan’s Modern Master
Babar Azam made his ODI debut on 31 May 2015 and quickly became the backbone of Pakistan’s batting lineup. He reached 3000 ODI runs in just 70 matches and 68 innings, taking 4 years and 26 days to achieve this milestone, making him one of the fastest scorers in Pakistan’s history. Renowned for his classy stroke play, consistency, and ability to anchor innings, Babar combines elegance with effectiveness in every match.
He has played numerous match-winning innings across the globe, excelling against both pace and spin attacks. His calm temperament under pressure and remarkable ability to build partnerships make him one of the finest limited-overs batsmen of his generation.
Top 5 India Players With ODI Fastest 3000 Runs
| Player | ODI Debut | Time Taken | Matches | Innings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shikhar Dhawan | 20 Oct 2010 | 5y 92d | 73 | 72 |
| Virat Kohli | 18 Aug 2008 | 3y 180d | 78 | 75 |
| KL Rahul | 11 Jun 2016 | 8y 266d | 84 | 78 |
| NS Sidhu | 9 Oct 1987 | 7y 27d | 83 | 79 |
| Sourav Ganguly | 11 Jan 1992 | 7y 1d | 87 | 82 |
Final Words
Reaching 3000 runs in ODI cricket is a milestone that showcases a batsman’s talent, consistency, and dedication. The players highlighted in this list have not only achieved this landmark but have done so in record time, setting benchmarks for future generations.
From explosive openers to steady anchors, each of these cricketers has left a lasting mark on the game. The fastest 3000 runs in ODI records reflect their exceptional skill, determination, and ability to perform under pressure. These achievements serve as an inspiration for aspiring cricketers and a testament to the greatness of modern-day ODI batting.
FAQs: Fastest 3000 Runs in ODI Cricket
1. Who holds the record for the fastest 3000 runs in ODI cricket?
Hashim Amla of South Africa holds the record, reaching 3000 runs in just 57 innings.
2. How many matches did Fakhar Zaman take to reach 3000 ODI runs?
Fakhar Zaman reached 3000 runs in 67 matches and 67 innings.
3. Which Pakistani batsmen are among the fastest to reach 3000 ODI runs?
Babar Azam, Imam-ul-Haq, and Fakhar Zaman are among the fastest Pakistani batsmen to achieve this milestone.
4. How long did it take Shai Hope to reach 3000 ODI runs?
Shai Hope reached 3000 runs in just 72 matches and 67 innings, showcasing consistent performance for the West Indies.
5. Does the fastest 3000 runs in ODI mean the batsman scored centuries faster?
Not necessarily. It reflects overall consistency and scoring ability, including fifties and big contributions over innings, not just centuries.
6. Are these records still being broken in modern ODI cricket?
Yes, as cricket evolves and batsmen become more aggressive and consistent, these milestones continue to be challenged, especially by young talents around the world.
