One Day Internationals (ODIs) have long been the stage where batting legends showcase their dominance, producing some of the most unforgettable innings in cricket. The Most Runs Scored in ODI Cricket History is a record that reflects consistency, skill, and match-winning performances. From the legendary Sachin Tendulkar, who etched his name in history with his incredible run-scoring feats, to Virat Kohli, who continues to add to his tally, these players have set new benchmarks in the game. The Most Runs Scored in ODI Cricket History is not just about numbers but about the lasting impact these cricketers have had on the sport. As we explore this elite list, we celebrate the players who have achieved the Most Runs Scored in ODI Cricket History, cementing their legacy in the 50-over format.
Most Runs Scored in ODI Cricket: Top Batting Legends and Record Holders
1. Sachin Tendulkar (India)-18,426 Run
Matches: 452
Average: 44.83
Centuries: 49
Half-Centuries: 96
Career Span: 1989-2012
The king of one-day international cricket would have been Sachin Tendulkar “Little Master” himself who could defy all bowlers across generations. With an unmatched figure of 18,426 runs to his name, he broke records and became the highest run-getter in this format. Spanned over two decades, Tendulkar became an icon not only of perseverance but also of excellence. He also became the first player to record a double-century in ODIs, time and again justifying the reason for his being regarded as one of the greatest ever. His flawless technique coupled with unshakable concentration and an insatiable appetite for runs formed the backbone of Indian cricket.
2. Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka)- 14,234 Run
Innings: 380
Average: 41.98
Centuries: 25
Half-Centuries: 93
Career Span: 2000-2015
In cricket, few sights can be compared to Kumar Sangakkara at his peak stretch. That Sri Lankan maestro was the master of elegance-it was the combination of timing and strength to finish very close to 14,000 runs for bat in hand in ODIs. But really, the master card in the hand of Sangakkara was the potential of adjustment: show the pacing he had in one inning, or change the entire time of the crease with maxing out, he was accordingly always the go-to Sri Lanka men in clutch situations. Thus, unbeknownst to many, Sangakkara wrote down his name as one of the people who would forever be remembered among the greatest wielders of willow.
3. Virat Kohli- 14,181 Runs (Active)
Innings: 290
Average: 57.88
Centuries: 51
Half-Centuries: 74
Career Span: 2008-Present
Virat Kohli glitters like a star and not like a cricketer. Standards of today’s ODI cricket measure in unbelievably huge different averages under his phenomenal, almost heroically, 57.88 average. His uncanny ability to mow down top-class bowlers with seemingly biblical chases makes him one of the scariest batsmen of modern-day cricket. A true differentiating factor, though, is his lust and mental strength combined with both amazing qualities.
4. Ricky Ponting (Australia) – 13,704 Runs
Innings: 365
Average: 42.03
Centuries: 30
Half-Centuries: 82
Career Span: 1995–2012
One merciless competitor, battle-hardened skipper, and batsman with an infinite greed for success- Ricky Ponting. Not the best captain, but one of the finest in ODI cricket and a successful commander in the annals of the game. Ponting, assertive yet clinical, became a nightmare for bowlers, whether starting a counter-attack or guiding his side to a legendary victory. He delivered whenever the chips were down. Under him, Australia sweeps world cricket, bringing home several ICC titles and redefining greatness.
5. Sanath Jayasuriya (Sri Lanka) – 13,430 Runs
Innings: 433
Average: 32.36
Centuries: 28
Half-Centuries: 68
Career Span: 1989-2011
Even before power-hitters became common, there existed Sanath Jayasuriya whose very presence revolutionized ODI cricket forever. In days when openers were expected to build their innings slowly, Jayasuriya listlessly blasted every bowler from the beginning. Breakneck and audacious batting made him a fierce contender for the title of one of the most fearsome openers of his time. He was one of the key architects behind Sri Lanka’s success at the World Cup in 1996, and his presence is felt till the present in new attacking batsmanship. A true pioneer, Jayasuriya left his mark on an inspiration that remains for attacking batsmen worldwide.
Final Thoughts
There are very few batsmen in the history of cricket who are as qualified as any such legendary batsman to leave some records beyond reach in alien run counts. The statistics of Sachin Tendulkar, though seem impossible to breach, have found an earnest competitor in Virat Kohli. The game continues to mutate, and as always there will be new stars. But those legacies will not only live for a few years in ODI histories, but they will always remain tempestuous in the pages that have made this cricket ki dilli.
Next on the list, who do you think will earn very exclusive entry into this? Leave your thoughts!
