Top 10 Batsmen with Most Runs in ODI Cricket

One-Day International (ODI) cricket has seen many legendary batsmen who have left a lasting mark on the sport. These players are admired for their ability to score consistently, handle pressure, and build big innings. Over the years, ODI cricket has produced some of the finest batters who have achieved the most runs in ODI cricket.

List of 10 Batsmen with Most Runs in ODI Cricket

10. Sourav Ganguly - 11,363 Runs

Sourav Ganguly, known as the "Prince of Kolkata," played 311 ODIs for India, scoring 11,363 runs at an average of 40.95. Ganguly was a left-handed stroke player who could anchor the innings or accelerate when needed. He scored 22 centuries and 72 half-centuries, with a top score of 183.

As a captain, Ganguly led India to memorable wins overseas. His calm but aggressive approach helped India in crucial matches. Ganguly is also remembered as one of the Indian players with most runs in ODI cricket, setting standards for middle-order batting.

9. Rohit Sharma - 11,577 Runs

Rohit Sharma is one of India's most destructive ODI batsmen, playing 282 matches and scoring 11,577 runs at an average of 48.59. Famous for his ability to hit big hundreds, Rohit has three double centuries, with a highest score of 264.

He has 33 centuries and 61 half-centuries, showing remarkable consistency. Rohit Sharma is recognized globally as one of the cricketers with most runs in ODI cricket, particularly for his ability to dominate the middle overs and finish matches strongly.

8. Jacques Kallis - 11,579 Runs

The South African legend Jacques Kallis played 328 ODIs, scoring 11,579 runs at an average of 44.36. Kallis also scored 17 centuries and 86 half-centuries, with a highest score of 139.

Kallis was calm and dependable, able to bat in any position. He is widely considered one of the players with most runs in ODI cricket, combining skill, technique, and consistency over a long career. His ability to handle pressure makes him an ODI cricket icon.

7. Inzamam-ul-Haq - 11,739 Runs

Former Pakistan captain Inzamam-ul-Haq played 378 ODIs, scoring 11,739 runs at an average of 39.52. Known for his powerful middle-order batting, Inzamam could perform under pressure. He scored 10 centuries and 83 half-centuries, with a highest score of 137 not out.

Inzamam's calm and composed approach helped Pakistan win crucial matches, especially in big tournaments. His ability to play match-defining innings makes him one of the players with most runs in ODI cricket.

6. Mahela Jayawardene - 12,650 Runs

Mahela Jayawardene, the elegant Sri Lankan batsman, played 448 ODIs, scoring 12,650 runs at an average of 33.37. He made 19 centuries and 77 half-centuries, with a highest score of 144.

Jayawardene was known for his classical batting style, smart running between the wickets, and consistent performances. He played a key role in Sri Lanka's batting lineup for many years and is among the cricketers with most runs in ODI cricket.

5. Sanath Jayasuriya - 13,430 Runs

Sanath Jayasuriya, one of the most explosive ODI batsmen, played 445 matches and scored 13,430 runs at an average of 32.36. He hit 28 centuries and 68 half-centuries, with a highest score of 189.

Besides his batting, Jayasuriya contributed with the ball, taking 323 wickets. His aggressive style, especially in the early overs, revolutionized ODI cricket and makes him one of the players with most runs in ODI cricket.

4. Ricky Ponting - 13,704 Runs

Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting played 375 ODIs, scoring 13,704 runs at an impressive average of 42.03. He made 30 centuries and 82 half-centuries, with a highest score of 164.

Ponting's sharp cricketing mind, consistency, and ability to dominate bowling attacks helped Australia achieve numerous victories. He is also one of the cricketers with most runs in ODI cricket due to his remarkable career.

3. Kumar Sangakkara - 14,234 Runs

Kumar Sangakkara, the legendary Sri Lankan wicket-keeper batsman, played 404 ODIs, scoring 14,234 runs at an average of 41.98. He scored 25 centuries and 93 half-centuries, with a highest score of 169.

Sangakkara's elegance, long innings, and ability to hold the innings together in pressure situations made him one of the players with most runs in ODI cricket. He is admired for his consistency and match-winning abilities.

2. Virat Kohli - 14,797 Runs

Virat Kohli, often called the modern-day run machine, has played 311 ODIs, scoring 14,797 runs at an average of 57.21. He has 54 centuries and 77 half-centuries, with a highest score of 183.

Kohli is known for his consistent batting, especially while chasing big targets. His aggressive yet reliable approach has made him one of the few cricketers with most runs in ODI cricket, standing among legends like Tendulkar and Sangakkara.

1. Sachin Tendulkar - 18,426 Runs

Sachin Tendulkar, the "God of Cricket," played 463 ODIs, scoring a record 18,426 runs at an average of 44.83. He hit 49 centuries and 96 half-centuries, including a historic double century, with a highest score of 200 not out.

Tendulkar's consistency, longevity, and ability to dominate bowlers worldwide make him the leading batsman in terms of most runs in ODI cricket. His records continue to inspire new generations of cricketers and fans.