Did you know the first-ever One Day Internatinal (ODI) cricket was played at a last-minute replacement for a washed-out test match? Since then, the ODI format has revolutionized cricket with its fast-paced, one-day thrill and electrifying finishes.
In this limited over-format, typically 50 overs per side, batters are under constant pressure to balance aggression with consistency. ODIs have seen some legendary performances, especially these batters like Sachin Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, and Kumar Sangakkara, who have mastered the art of scoring under big pressure.
If you are wondering who the greatest run scorers are in this format, here’s your ultimate List of players with most runs in ODI cricket.
This curated Top 10 players with highest run scorers in ODI cricket showcases icons who have not only dominated the scoreboard but also left an indelible mark on the game.
Whether you are a stats enthusiast or a die-hard cricket fan, dive into this breakdown of the most runs in ODI cricket and relive the magic of some of the sport’s greatest batting maestros.
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Contents
List of Players With Most Runs in ODI Cricket
| Player | Career Span | Mat | Inns | Runs |
| SR Tendulkar (IND) | 1989-2012 | 463 | 452 | 18426 |
| KC Sangakkara (Asia/ICC/SL) | 2000-2015 | 404 | 380 | 14234 |
| V Kohli (IND) | 2008-2025 | 301 | 289 | 14180 |
| RT Ponting (AUS/ICC) | 1995-2012 | 375 | 365 | 13704 |
| ST Jayasuriya (Asia/SL) | 1989-2011 | 445 | 433 | 13430 |
| Mahela Jayawardene (Asia/SL) | 1998-2015 | 448 | 418 | 12650 |
| Inzamam-ul-Haq (Asia/PAK) | 1991-2007 | 378 | 350 | 11739 |
| Jacques Kallis (Afr/ICC/SA) | 1996-2014 | 328 | 314 | 11579 |
| SC Ganguly (Asia/IND) | 1992-2007 | 311 | 300 | 11363 |
| RG Sharma (IND) | 2007-2025 | 272 | 264 | 11092 |
1. Sachin Tendulkar – 18426 Runs
Sachin Tendulkar, the “God Of Cricket“, leads the list of players with most runs in ODI cricket with 18,426 runs. Over his 23-year career from 1989-2012, he played 463 matches for India, showcasing unparalleled consistency.
Sachin’s ability to adapt to different conditions and bowlers made him a global icon. He also holds a record for 100 centuries to his name, which also sets a record for most runs in international cricket in all formats.
2. Kumar Sangakkara – 14234
Sri Lankan Maestro, Kumar Sangakkara, has played exceptional innings for his team when in need. He scored a massive 14234 runs in 404 ODI matches, during his illustrious career from 2000 to 2015.
He is known for his elegant stroke play, strategic acumen, and temperament, and he was the backbone of the Sri Lankan batting lineup. With 25 centuries and 93 half-centuries consistently dominates bowlers during batting.
3. Virat Kohli – 14180
Virat Kohli, also known as the “Chase Master” in ODI cricket and one of the most prolific run scorers in ODI history, amassed 50 centuries in ODI cricket. He scored 14180 runs in 301 matches in his ODI career from 2008 to 2025, and he has yet to play ODI cricket to achieve more feats in this game.
His aggressive batting style makes him one of the greatest and highest-run getters in ODI cricket and the Chase Master while chasing. His consistency while scoring runs and temperament of delivering match-winning knocks have reinvented modern cricket.
4. Ricky Ponting – 13704
Ricky Ponting, one of cricket’s greatest captains, amassed 13,704 runs in 375 ODIs between 1995 and 2012. Known for his aggressive stroke play and tactical brilliance. Ponting led Australia to two World Cup title victories in 2003 and 2007.
He played a vital role at number 3 for the Kangaroos in laying down the foundation for the remaining Aussie batting lineup. He has 30 centuries and 82 half-centuries to his name.
Read: Top 10 Highest Run-Scorers and Wicket-Takers in T20 World Cup History
5. Sanath Jayasuriya – 13430
Sri Lankan legend and veteran opener, Sanath Jayasuriya, revolutionized ODI batting with his aggressive approach during the powerplay, redefining the role of an opener. Accumulating 13,430 runs in 445 matches between 1989 and 2011, he showcased a wide range of strokes across the field.
Known for his explosive hitting, Jayasuriya scored 28 centuries, many of which were game-changing performances. His fearless style at the top of the order played a crucial role in laying the foundation for Sri Lanka’s success in ODI cricket.
6. Mahela Jayawardene – 12650
Mahela Jayawardene, known for his grace, precision, and calm demeanour, was one of Sri Lanka’s most dependable middle-order batsmen. Over a career spanning 1998 to 2015, he scored 12,650 runs in 448 ODIs, combining stylish stroke play with exceptional consistency.
Renowned for building solid innings and crucial partnerships, Jayawardene registered 19 centuries and 77 half-centuries. His leadership qualities were equally impactful, guiding Sri Lanka to the 2007 World Cup final and leaving a lasting legacy in ODI cricket.
7. Inzamam-ul-Haq – 11739
Pakistan’s batting stalwart Inzamam-ul-Haq was known for his calm demeanour under pressure and his ability to anchor innings with precision. He played 378 ODIs between 1991 to 2007 for his nation, and scored 11,739 runs, including 10 centuries and 83 half-centuries, showcasing his consistency and match-winning capabilities.
A vital member of Pakistan’s 1992 World Cup winning squad, Inzamam’s exceptional technique against both pace and spin, along with his ability to pace innings in crucial situations, made him one of the reliable batters in ODI history.
8. Jacques Kallis – 11579
South African legend Jacques Kallis is one of the greatest all-rounders in cricket history. He is mostly known for his calm presence under pressure and remarkable consistency, both as a batsman and an all-rounder.
Featuring in 328 ODIs between 1996 and 2014, he scored 11,579 runs including 17 centuries and 76 half-centuries, underlining his ability to build and finish innings effectively. A key figure in South Africa’s middle order, Kallis combined solid technique with the temperament to perform in high-pressure situations. His versatility and match awareness made him one of the most dependable and complete players in ODI cricket history.
Read: Top 5 Indian Bowlers With Most Wickets in Test Cricket
9. Sourav Ganguly – 11363
Indian cricket icon, Sourav Ganguly known for his fearless approach and elegant strokeplay, especially through the off-side. Playing 311 ODIs between 1992 to 2007, and scored a total of 11,363 runs for his nation.
Ganguly has 22 centuries and 72 half-centuries, showcasing his ability to dominate bowling attacks and anchor crucial innings. As a dynamic opener and inspirational captain, Ganguly played a pivotal role in shaping a new era of indian cricket.
His aggressive leadership and consistent performances made him stand out as the most influential figures in the history of ODI cricket.
10. Rohit Sharma – 11092
Current ODI captain of the Indian cricket team, Rohit Sharma, has established himself as one of the most destructive and dependable openers in ODI cricket. Since making his debut in 2007, he has amassed 11,092 runs, including a record-breaking three double centuries, along with 30+ centuries and 50+ half centuries to his name, showcasing his ability to play both anchoring and explosive roles.
He is known for his destructive batting, elegant strokeplay, and composure under pressure. Rohit has been a cornerstone of India’s top order. His match-winning performances and ability to accelerate during crucial phases make him one of the most impactful ODI batters of the modern era.
Last Verdict
From Tendulkar’s timeless brilliance to Rohit Sharma’s modern-day dominance, ODI cricket has been shaped by these batting legends. Their records, resilience, and flair have elevated the 50-over format, turning every match into a stage of greatness and redefining what it means to be a cricketing icon.
