One-Day Internationals (ODIs) have produced some of the most memorable performances in cricket history. Over the decades, a few exceptional batsmen have consistently dominated the format, scoring runs with unmatched skill, patience, and power.
From steady anchors to explosive openers, these legends have not only broken records but also redefined what it means to be a great ODI batsman.
In this blog, we take a closer look at the players who have scored the most ODI runs in international cricket, their incredible achievements, and the stories behind their legendary careers.
Top 20 Batsmen Who Scored the Most ODI Runs in International Cricket
From explosive openers to calm anchors, ODI cricket has produced some phenomenal run-scorers. The following list features the top 20 batsmen who scored the most runs in international cricket, celebrating their records, milestones, and unforgettable innings.
| Rank | Player | Span | Mat | Runs | HS |
| 1 | SR Tendulkar (IND) | 1989-2012 | 463 | 18426 | 200* |
| 2 | V Kohli (IND) | 2008-2026 | 309 | 14650 | 183 |
| 3 | KC Sangakkara (SL) | 2000-2015 | 404 | 14234 | 169 |
| 4 | RT Ponting (AUS) | 1995-2012 | 375 | 13704 | 164 |
| 5 | ST Jayasuriya (SL) | 1989-2011 | 445 | 13430 | 189 |
| 6 | DPMD Jayawardene (SL) | 1998-2015 | 448 | 12650 | 144 |
| 7 | Inzamam-ul-Haq (PAK) | 1991-2007 | 378 | 11739 | 137* |
| 8 | JH Kallis (SA) | 1996-2014 | 328 | 11579 | 139 |
| 9 | RG Sharma (IND) | 2007-2026 | 280 | 11542 | 264 |
| 10 | SC Ganguly (IND) | 1992-2007 | 311 | 11363 | 183 |
| 11 | R Dravid (IND) | 1996-2011 | 344 | 10889 | 153 |
| 12 | MS Dhoni (IND) | 2004-2019 | 350 | 10773 | 183* |
| 13 | CH Gayle (WI) | 1999-2019 | 301 | 10480 | 215 |
| 14 | BC Lara (WI) | 1990-2007 | 299 | 10405 | 169 |
| 15 | TM Dilshan (SL) | 1999-2016 | 330 | 10290 | 161* |
| 16 | Mohammad Yousuf (PAK) | 1998-2010 | 288 | 9720 | 141* |
| 17 | AC Gilchrist (AUS) | 1996-2008 | 287 | 9619 | 172 |
| 18 | AB de Villiers (SA) | 2005-2018 | 228 | 9577 | 176 |
| 19 | M Azharuddin (IND) | 1985-2000 | 334 | 9378 | 153* |
| 20 | PA de Silva (SL) | 1984-2003 | 308 | 9284 | 145 |
Top 20 Batsmen Who Scored the Most ODI Runs in International Cricket
From explosive openers to calm anchors, ODI cricket has produced some phenomenal run-scorers. The following list features the top 20 batsmen who scored the most runs in international cricket, celebrating their records, milestones, and unforgettable innings.
Sachin Tendulkar
Sachin Tendulkar holds the record for the most ODI runs in international cricket, a feat that defines his legendary career. Representing India for over two decades, he scored 18,426 runs and became the first player to reach many historic milestones. His ability to perform consistently in every condition made him a true icon of ODI cricket.
Virat Kohli
Virat Kohli stands second on the list of players with the most ODI runs in international cricket, highlighting his dominance in the modern era of the game. Since making his ODI debut in 2008, Kohli has scored over 14,000 runs, showing exceptional consistency across all conditions. Known for his ability to chase targets and perform under pressure, he has delivered countless match-winning innings for India. His strong technique, fitness, and hunger for runs have firmly placed him among the greatest ODI batsmen in cricket history.
Kumar Sangakkara
Kumar Sangakkara was a pillar of Sri Lanka’s batting line-up for over a decade. In his ODI career from 2000 to 2015, he scored 14,234 runs and became known for his consistency and reliability. His smooth batting style and ability to control the innings made him one of the most respected players of his time.
Ricky Ponting
Ricky Ponting was one of Australia’s most successful batsmen in ODI cricket. Playing from 1995 to 2012, he scored 13,704 runs in 375 matches and was known for his strong technique and aggressive mindset. Ponting played a key role in Australia’s dominance in world cricket and delivered many match-winning performances in high-pressure games.
Sanath Jayasuriya
Sanath Jayasuriya changed the way ODI cricket was played with his aggressive batting at the top of the order. Representing Sri Lanka from 1989 to 2011, he scored 13,430 runs in 445 matches. His fearless approach gave Sri Lanka quick starts and put pressure on bowlers from the very beginning of the innings.
Read More: Fastest 4000 Runs in T20
Final Words
The history of ODI cricket is filled with iconic batting performances, and these legendary players have defined the format with their consistency and skill. Their run-scoring records reflect years of hard work, adaptability, and excellence at the highest level.
As new players emerge, these achievements continue to serve as benchmarks in international cricket.
FAQs
Q1. Who has scored the most runs in ODI cricket?
Sachin Tendulkar holds the record for the most runs in ODI cricket, scoring 18,426 runs during his career for India.
Q2. Which batsman is second on the list of most ODI run-scorers?
Virat Kohli is second on the list, having scored over 14,000 runs in One-Day Internationals.
Q3. Who are the top three ODI run-scorers of all time?
Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, and Kumar Sangakkara are the top three run-scorers in ODI cricket history.
Q4. Which country has produced the most high ODI run-scorers?
India and Sri Lanka have produced several legendary ODI batsmen who feature prominently among the top run-scorers.
Q5. Is it possible for current players to break the ODI run record?
Yes, with modern fitness levels and longer careers, active players like Virat Kohli still have a chance to challenge existing records.
Q6. Why are ODI run records important in cricket?
ODI run records highlight a batsman’s consistency, adaptability, and long-term impact in one of cricket’s most competitive formats.
