Sachin Tendulkar leads the list of players with the most runs in international cricket in all formats, scoring an incredible 34,357 runs in his career. The ‘Master Blaster’ has set a record that inspires cricketers even today.
International cricket, including Tests, ODIs, and T20Is, has seen many great batsmen who performed consistently and scored runs in every format.
In this article, we will look at the top run-scorers in international cricket in all formats, their achievements, and the records they have made or are still chasing.
Top 10 Batsmen With Most Runs in International Cricket in All Formats
Cricket has seen many great batsmen whose consistency and skill have made them legends of the game.
At the top of the list is Sachin Tendulkar, the player with the most runs in international cricket across all formats. Following him are legends like Kumar Sangakkara, known for his elegance and reliability for Sri Lanka, and Virat Kohli, the modern-day star who continues to add to his runs.
Here’s a look at the top 10 highest run-scorers in international cricket across all formats.
| Rank | Player | Span | Matches | Runs | HS |
| 1 | Sachin Tendulkar (IND) | 1989–2013 | 664 | 34,357 | 248* |
| 2 | Kumar Sangakkara (SL) | 2000–2015 | 594 | 28,016 | 319 |
| 3 | Virat Kohli (IND) | 2008–2025 | 553 | 27,673 | 254* |
| 4 | Ricky Ponting (AUS) | 1995–2012 | 560 | 27,483 | 257 |
| 5 | Mahela Jayawardene (SL) | 1997–2015 | 652 | 25,957 | 374 |
| 6 | Jacques Kallis (SA) | 1995–2014 | 519 | 25,534 | 224 |
| 7 | Rahul Dravid (IND) | 1996–2012 | 509 | 24,208 | 270 |
| 8 | Brian Lara (WI) | 1990–2007 | 430 | 22,358 | 400* |
| 9 | Joe Root (ENG) | 2012–2025 | 375 | 21,764 | 262 |
| 10 | Sanath Jayasuriya (SL) | 1989–2011 | 586 | 21,032 | 340 |
1. Sachin Tendulkar (IND)
| Format | Matches | Runs | Highest Score |
| Test | 200 | 15,921 | 248* |
| ODI | 463 | 18,426 | 200* |
| T20I | 1 | 10 | 10 |
Sachin Tendulkar, famously known as the “Master Blaster,” is the highest run-scorer in international cricket across all formats. Playing for India from 1989 to 2013, he scored an incredible 34,357 runs in 664 matches, with a highest score of 248 not out.
Tendulkar was known for his flawless technique, consistency, and ability to perform under pressure. He dominated in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is, setting records that still inspire cricketers around the world. His career is a perfect example of dedication, skill, and passion for the game.
2. Kumar Sangakkara (SL)
| Format | Matches | Runs | 100s | 50s | Highest Score |
| Test | 134 | 12,400 | 38 | 52 | 319 |
| ODI | 404 | 14234 | 25 | 93 | 169* |
| T20I | 56 | 1382 | 0 | 8 | 78* |
Kumar Sangakkara is one of Sri Lanka’s finest batsmen. He played from 2000 to 2015 and scored 28,016 runs in 594 matches, including 63 centuries and 153 half-centuries, with a highest score of 319.
Sangakkara was known for his elegant batting style, excellent timing, and consistency. He could play long innings in all formats and was a dependable performer for Sri Lanka throughout his career.
3. Virat Kohli
| Format | Matches | Runs | 100s | 50s | Highest Score |
| Test | 123 | 9230 | 30 | 31 | 254* |
| ODI | 183 | 14255 | 51 | 75 | 183 |
| T20I | 125 | 4188 | 1 | 38 | 122* |
Since making his international debut in 2008, Virat Kohli has become one of cricket’s top run-scorers, accumulating 27,673 runs in 553 matches.
With 82 centuries and 144 half-centuries, he is known for chasing big totals, playing under pressure, and being a modern-day legend in all formats.
4. Ricky Ponting
| Format | Matches | Runs | 100s | 50s | Highest Score |
| Test | 168 | 13,378 | 41 | 62 | 257 |
| ODI | 375 | 13,704 | 30 | 82 | 164 |
| T20I | 17 | 401 | 0 | 2 | 98* |
Ricky Ponting is one of Australia’s finest batsmen and a former captain who inspired his team to win multiple ICC trophies. Between 1995 and 2012, he scored 27,483 runs in 560 matches, including 71 centuries and 146 half-centuries, with a highest score of 257.
Ponting was famous for his aggressive style, excellent technique, and calm leadership on the field. He had the ability to perform in crucial matches and always delivered when it mattered the most, making him a true cricketing legend.
5. Mahela Jayawardene (SL)
| Format | Matches | Runs | 100s | 50s | Highest Score |
| Test | 149 | 11,814 | 34 | 50 | 374 |
| ODI | 448 | 12650 | 19 | 77 | 144 |
| T20I | 55 | 1493 | 1 | 9 | 100 |
Mahela Jayawardene is regarded as one of Sri Lanka’s finest batsmen. From 1997 to 2015, he scored 25,957 runs in 652 matches, including 54 centuries and 136 fifties, with a highest score of 374.
Known for his calm approach and perfect technique, Jayawardene could build long innings and anchor the team. He was a key performer in all formats and played a major role in Sri Lanka’s success over many years.
6. Jacques Kallis (SA)
| Format | Matches | Runs | 100s | 50s | Highest Score |
| Test | 166 | 13,289 | 45 | 58 | 224 |
| ODI | 328 | 11,579 | 17 | 86 | 139* |
| T20I | 25 | 666 | 0 | 5 | 73 |
Over nearly 20 years, Jacques Kallis became one of South Africa’s most reliable batsmen and an exceptional all-rounder. Between 1995 and 2014, he amassed 25,534 runs in 519 matches, including 62 centuries and 149 half-centuries, with a highest score of 224.
Kallis’s technique, patience, and ability to perform in crucial moments made him a vital part of South African cricket. He excelled across all formats and left a lasting mark on the game.
7. Rahul Dravid (IND)
| Format | Matches | Runs | 100s | 50s | Highest Score |
| Test | 164 | 13,288 | 36 | 63 | 270 |
| ODI | 344 | 10,889 | 12 | 83 | 153 |
| T20I | 1 | 31 | 0 | 0 | 31 |
Rahul Dravid, famously known as “The Wall,” is one of India’s most dependable batsmen. Playing from 1996 to 2012, he scored 24,208 runs in 509 matches, including 48 centuries and 146 half-centuries, with a highest score of 270.
Dravid was known for his solid technique, patience, and ability to play long innings. He excelled in all formats, especially Tests, and was a key figure in India’s batting lineup for nearly two decades.
8. Brian Lara (WI)
| Format | Matches | Runs | 100s | 50s | Highest Score |
| Test | 131 | 11,953 | 34 | 48 | 400* |
| ODI | 299 | 10,405 | 19 | 63 | 169 |
| T20I | 0 | – | – | – | – |
Brian Lara had a career full of records and spectacular innings. Between 1990 and 2007, he scored 22,358 runs in 430 matches, including 53 hundreds and 111 fifties, with a top score of 400 not out.
Lara’s flamboyant batting, timing, and consistency made him one of the most exciting players to watch. He played a key role in West Indies cricket and left a lasting legacy in international cricket history.
9. Joe Root (ENG)
| Format | Matches | Runs | 100s | 50s | Highest Score |
| Test | 158 | 13543 | 39 | 66 | 262 |
| ODI | 185 | 7328 | 19 | 43 | 166* |
| T20I | 32 | 893 | 0 | 5 | 90* |
Joe Root is one of England’s leading batsmen of the modern era. Playing from 2012 to 2025, he has scored 21,764 runs in 375 matches, including 58 centuries and 114 half-centuries, with a highest score of 262.
Root is known for his elegant stroke play, consistency, and ability to anchor innings. He has been a key performer for England across all formats and continues to strengthen his position among the world’s top batsmen.
10. Sanath Jayasuriya (SL)
| Format | Matches | Runs | 100s | 50s | Highest Score |
| Test | 110 | 6,973 | 14 | 31 | 340 |
| ODI | 445 | 13,430 | 28 | 68 | 189* |
| T20I | 31 | 629 | 0 | 4 | 88 |
Sanath Jayasuriya is remembered as one of Sri Lanka’s most dynamic batsmen. From 1989 to 2011, he scored 21,032 runs in 586 matches, including 42 centuries and 103 half-centuries, with a highest score of 340.
Jayasuriya’s attacking style and fast scoring made him a match-winner for Sri Lanka. He could take on the best bowlers in all formats and was a key figure in the team’s success over two decades.
Top 10 Batsmen With Most Runs in Test Cricket
Test cricket has always been the ultimate measure of a batsman’s skill and endurance. Over the years, many legendary players have made their mark with consistent performances, accumulating massive runs and leaving a lasting impact on the game.
This section highlights the top 10 batsmen with the most runs in Test cricket, showcasing their achievements, records, and the contributions that made them icons in the longest format of the game.
| Player | Span | Matches | Runs | 100s |
| Sachin Tendulkar (IND) | 1989–2013 | 200 | 15,921 | 51 |
| Joe Root (ENG) | 2012–2025 | 158 | 13,543 | 39 |
| Ricky Ponting (AUS) | 1995–2012 | 168 | 13,378 | 41 |
| Jacques Kallis (SA) | 1995–2013 | 166 | 13,289 | 45 |
| Rahul Dravid (IND) | 1996–2012 | 164 | 13,288 | 36 |
| Alastair Cook (ENG) | 2006–2018 | 161 | 12,472 | 33 |
| Kumar Sangakkara (SL) | 2000–2015 | 134 | 12,400 | 38 |
| Brian Lara (WI) | 1990–2006 | 131 | 11,953 | 34 |
| Shivnarine Chanderpaul (WI) | 1994–2015 | 164 | 11,867 | 30 |
| Mahela Jayawardene (SL) | 1997–2014 | 149 | 11,814 | 34 |
Top 10 Batsmen with Most Runs in ODI Cricket
The One Day International (ODI) format has produced some of cricket’s finest batsmen, known for their consistency, adaptability, and match-winning performances.
Scoring heavily in ODIs requires a blend of patience, power, and precision — and the top run-getters have mastered this art over decades.
From Sachin Tendulkar’s unmatched dominance to modern greats like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, these players have redefined batting in the 50-over format. Their ability to perform under pressure, build innings, and deliver in crucial moments has earned them a permanent place in cricketing history.
| Player | Span | Matches | Runs | 100s |
| Sachin Tendulkar (IND) | 1989–2012 | 463 | 18,426 | 49 |
| Virat Kohli (IND) | 2008–2025 | 305 | 14,255 | 51 |
| Kumar Sangakkara (SL) | 2000–2015 | 404 | 14,234 | 25 |
| Ricky Ponting (AUS) | 1995–2012 | 375 | 13,704 | 30 |
| Sanath Jayasuriya (SL) | 1989–2011 | 445 | 13,430 | 28 |
| Mahela Jayawardene (SL) | 1998–2015 | 448 | 12,650 | 19 |
| Inzamam-ul-Haq (PAK) | 1991–2007 | 378 | 11,739 | 10 |
| Jacques Kallis (SA) | 1996–2014 | 328 | 11,579 | 17 |
| Rohit Sharma (IND) | 2007–2025 | 276 | 11,370 | 33 |
| Sourav Ganguly (IND) | 1992–2007 | 311 | 11,363 | 22 |
Top 10 Batsmen with Most Runs in T20 International Cricket
T20 International cricket has revolutionized the game with its fast pace and high-scoring nature. Scoring consistently in this format requires quick reflexes, innovative shot-making, and the ability to handle pressure in every over.
The top run-scorers in T20Is have shown exceptional skill and adaptability, entertaining fans while setting records.
This section highlights the top 10 batsmen with the most runs in T20 International cricket, showcasing their achievements and impact on the shortest format of the game.
| Player | Span | Matches | Runs | 100s |
| Rohit Sharma (IND) | 2007–2024 | 159 | 4,231 | 5 |
| Babar Azam (PAK) | 2016–2025 | 129 | 4,223 | 3 |
| Virat Kohli (IND) | 2010–2024 | 125 | 4,188 | 1 |
| Jos Buttler (ENG) | 2011–2025 | 144 | 3,869 | 1 |
| Paul Stirling (IRE) | 2009–2025 | 153 | 3,710 | 1 |
| Martin Guptill (NZ) | 2009–2022 | 122 | 3,531 | 2 |
| Mohammad Rizwan (PAK) | 2015–2024 | 106 | 3,414 | 1 |
| David Warner (AUS) | 2009–2024 | 110 | 3,277 | 1 |
| Muhammad Waseem (UAE) | 2021–2025 | 91 | 3,184 | 3 |
| Aaron Finch (AUS) | 2011–2022 | 103 | 3,120 | 2 |
Final Words
Cricket has always celebrated the brilliance and consistency of its greatest batsmen. From the enduring legends of Test cricket to the modern masters of ODIs and T20Is, these players have set remarkable records and entertained fans across generations.
Tracking the most runs in international cricket across all formats not only highlights their skill and dedication but also inspires aspiring cricketers around the world.
Whether it’s the elegance of Sachin Tendulkar, the power of Brian Lara, or the consistency of Virat Kohli, each of these players has left an indelible mark on the game.
Their achievements remind us why cricket is not just a sport but a passion celebrated worldwide.
Q1: Who has scored the most runs in international cricket across all formats?
A: Sachin Tendulkar leads the list with 34,357 runs across Tests, ODIs, and T20Is.
Q2: Who is the highest run-scorer in Test cricket?
A: Sachin Tendulkar holds the record for the most Test runs with 15,921 runs in 200 matches.
Q3: Who has scored the most runs in ODIs?
A: Again, Sachin Tendulkar tops the ODI charts with 18,426 runs in 463 matches.
Q4: Who is the leading run-scorer in T20 Internationals?
A: Rohit Sharma leads T20I runs with 4,231 runs in 159 matches.
Q5: Which active players are among the top run-scorers?
A: Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Babar Azam, and Jos Buttler are active players who continue to add to their international run tally.
Q6: Are there players from all cricket-playing nations in the top run-scorers list?
A: Most of the top run-scorers come from cricket-heavy nations like India, England, Australia, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan, but players from emerging teams like UAE (Muhammad Waseem) have also made it to the T20I list.
