One Day International (ODI) cricket has produced some of the greatest batsmen in history. These players have entertained fans with their consistency, technique, and match-winning performances. Let’s take a look at the top 10 highest run-scorers in ODI cricket and their incredible achievements.
1. Sachin Tendulkar (India) – 18,426 Runs
Sachin Tendulkar, widely regarded as one of the best cricketers ever, dominated the ODI format from 1989 to 2012. He scored 18,426 runs in 463 matches, with an average of 44.83. His record includes 49 centuries and 96 half-centuries, making him the leading run-scorer in ODI history. He was also the first player to score a double century in ODIs.
2. Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka) – 14,234 Runs
Kumar Sangakkara was one of the most technically gifted batsmen in world cricket. From 2000 to 2015, he played 404 ODIs and scored 14,234 runs at an average of 41.98. His tally includes 25 centuries and 93 fifties. Sangakkara’s ability to anchor the innings and play under pressure made him a key player for Sri Lanka.
3. Virat Kohli (India) – 14,181 Runs
Virat Kohli is one of the most consistent batsmen in modern cricket. Since making his ODI debut in 2008, he has scored 14,181 runs in 302 matches, with an exceptional average of 58.11. His aggressive approach has led to 51 centuries and 74 fifties. Kohli continues to be a match-winner for India, known for his chasing abilities.
4. Ricky Ponting (Australia) – 13,704 Runs
Ricky Ponting was the backbone of Australia’s batting lineup between 1995 and 2012. He scored 13,704 runs in 375 ODIs, averaging 42.03, with 30 centuries and 82 fifties. His leadership and powerful stroke play played a crucial role in Australia’s dominance in world cricket.
5. Sanath Jayasuriya (Sri Lanka) – 13,430 Runs
Sanath Jayasuriya changed the way ODI cricket was played with his attacking batting. His career spanned from 1989 to 2011, during which he played 445 matches and scored 13,430 runs at an average of 32.36. His highest score of 189 and his 28 centuries highlight his ability to take on bowlers from the start.
6. Mahela Jayawardene (Sri Lanka) – 12,650 Runs
Mahela Jayawardene was a stylish and composed batsman who played for Sri Lanka from 1998 to 2015. He scored 12,650 runs in 448 ODIs, with an average of 33.37. His tally includes 19 centuries and 77 fifties. Jayawardene’s ability to construct an innings made him a vital part of Sri Lanka’s success.
7. Inzamam-ul-Haq (Pakistan) – 11,739 Runs
Inzamam-ul-Haq was one of Pakistan’s most reliable batsmen between 1991 and 2007. He played 378 ODIs, scoring 11,739 runs at an average of 39.52. His ability to handle pressure and score crucial runs made him a key figure in Pakistan’s batting lineup.
8. Jacques Kallis (South Africa) – 11,579 Runs
Jacques Kallis was one of the greatest all-rounders in cricket history. Between 1996 and 2014, he played 328 ODIs, scoring 11,579 runs at an average of 44.36. His 17 centuries and 86 fifties highlight his consistency as a batsman. Apart from his batting, Kallis was also a top-quality bowler, making him a true asset for South Africa.
9. Sourav Ganguly (India) – 11,363 Runs
Sourav Ganguly was known for his aggressive batting and fearless leadership. From 1992 to 2007, he played 311 ODIs, scoring 11,363 runs at an average of 41.02. His 22 centuries and 72 fifties reflect his ability to dominate bowling attacks. His leadership helped shape the future of Indian cricket.
10. Rohit Sharma (India) – 11,049 Runs
Rohit Sharma is one of the most explosive openers in ODI cricket. Since his debut in 2007, he has scored 11,049 runs in 270 matches, averaging 48.64. He holds the record for the highest individual score in ODIs with 264 runs and is the only batsman with three double centuries in ODIs.
These players have set benchmarks in ODI cricket with their remarkable achievements. Their records continue to inspire future generations of cricketers. Whether through elegant stroke play, aggressive hitting, or calm leadership, each of these legends has left an unforgettable mark on the sport.
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