In this article, we take a look at five legendary cricketers who have amassed the most runs in ODI history—Sachin Tendulkar, Kumar Sangakkara, Virat Kohli, Ricky Ponting, and Sanath Jayasuriya. These players not only rewrote record books but also inspired generations of cricketers with their masterful batting displays. Let’s dive into their incredible careers and the milestones that set them apart.

Top 5 Highest ODI Run Scorer

One Day Internationals (ODIs) have produced some of the greatest batting legends in cricket history. Over the years, several players have dominated the format with their consistency, skill, and ability to score runs across different conditions. Among them, a few stand out for their exceptional records and lasting impact on the game.

5. Sanath Jayasuriya

Sanath Jayasuriya revolutionized ODI cricket with his aggressive and fearless batting approach, making him one of the most dangerous openers in the game’s history and one of the players with most runs in ODI history. Accumulating 13,430 runs in 445 ODIs at a strike rate that redefined limited-overs batting, Jayasuriya’s ability to dominate bowlers from the outset was instrumental in Sri Lanka’s rise as a powerhouse in world cricket. His explosive style, combined with an ability to build long innings, saw him register 28 centuries and 68 half-centuries, with a career-best score of 189, one of the highest individual scores in ODI history at the time. His performances were crucial in Sri Lanka’s triumphant 1996 Cricket World Cup campaign, where he was named the Most Valuable Player for his all-round contributions.

Beyond his batting exploits, Jayasuriya was a valuable all-rounder, taking 323 wickets in ODIs, making him the only player to achieve the rare double of 10,000+ runs and 300+ wickets in the format. His left-arm spin proved vital in breaking partnerships, and his ability to turn games with both bat and ball made him one of the greatest all-rounders in ODI history. As the captain of Sri Lanka from 1999 to 2003, he led the team with aggression and flair, leaving a lasting legacy as one of the pioneers of modern ODI batting. Even after his retirement, his influence on Sri Lankan cricket remained significant, with his fearless approach inspiring future generations of cricketers.

4. Ricky Ponting

Ricky Ponting, one of cricket’s most successful captains and one of the highest ODI run scorers, left an indelible mark on ODI. Amassing 13,704 runs in 375 ODIs at an impressive average of 42.03, Ponting was a cornerstone of Australia’s dominance in limited-overs cricket for over a decade. With 30 centuries and 82 half-centuries, he played a pivotal role in Australia’s golden era, guiding them to back-to-back ICC Cricket World Cup victories in 2003 and 2007, and contributing as a key player in their 1999 World Cup triumph. His ability to anchor innings, coupled with his aggressive stroke play, made him one of the most dependable batsmen in ODI history. His highest ODI score of 164 epitomized his ability to take apart world-class bowling attacks.

Beyond his batting prowess, Ponting was an exceptional leader, winning more ICC tournaments as a captain than any other player in men’s cricket. His aggressive captaincy and tactical acumen helped Australia dominate world cricket, securing consecutive ICC Champions Trophy titles in 2006 and 2009. With 262 ODI wins as a player, he remains the most successful ODI cricketer in history in terms of match victories. His legacy is not just in his records but also in the way he set the benchmark for future Australian cricketers. Even after retirement, Ponting’s influence on the game continues, with his expertise being sought after in coaching and commentary roles.

3. Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli has redefined consistency and dominance in ODI cricket, cementing his place among the greatest batsmen of all time. With 13,906 runs in 295 ODIs at a staggering average of 58.18, Kohli has been a run-machine, known for his impeccable technique, aggression, and ability to chase down targets under pressure. He holds the record for the most centuries in ODI history, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar, and has registered 50 ODI centuries and 72 half-centuries, making him a prolific match-winner for India. His highest ODI score of 183 came in a high-pressure chase against Pakistan in the 2012 Asia Cup, showcasing his ability to dominate world-class bowling attacks. Kohli’s ability to accelerate the innings, rotate strike, and construct chases has made him the backbone of India’s batting lineup for over a decade.

Kohli’s impact in ODIs extends beyond his batting records of being one of the cricketers with most runs in ODI history. As a leader, he captained India to several memorable victories, including the 2018 Asia Cup and leading India to the ICC ODI World Cup semifinals in 2019 and 2023. He has won numerous ICC awards, including the ICC ODI Player of the Year award four times and was named the ICC Cricketer of the Decade (2010-2020). His fitness, discipline, and relentless pursuit of excellence have set new benchmarks for modern cricketers. Even after stepping down from captaincy, Kohli continues to be a crucial pillar for Indian cricket, inspiring the next generation with his unwavering passion and hunger for success.

2. Kumar Sangakkara

Kumar Sangakkara was the epitome of class and consistency in ODI, establishing himself as one of the greatest wicket keeper-batsmen in the history of the game. Scoring 14,234 runs in 404 ODIs at an impressive average of 41.98, Sangakkara played a crucial role in Sri Lanka’s batting lineup for over a decade and still is one of the highest ODI run scorer of all time. His elegant stroke play, ability to rotate strike, and adaptability across formats made him a formidable opponent for any bowling attack. With 25 centuries and 93 half-centuries, he ranks among the highest run-getters in ODI history. His highest ODI score of 169 highlighted his ability to construct long innings while maintaining a high strike rate. Notably, he remains the only player to score four consecutive centuries in a single Cricket World Cup, a feat he achieved in the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup, reinforcing his reputation as a big-match player.

Apart from his batting prowess, Sangakkara was also a reliable wicketkeeper, adding significant value to the Sri Lankan team. His leadership played a crucial role in guiding Sri Lanka to multiple ICC finals, including the 2007 and 2011 Cricket World Cups, before finally clinching an ICC trophy in the 2014 T20 World Cup. As a key figure in Sri Lanka’s golden era, Sangakkara’s contributions went beyond statistics—he was a mentor, an inspiring leader, and a symbol of resilience for Sri Lankan cricket. Even after his retirement, his impact on the game continues through his insightful cricket commentary and administrative roles in the sport.

1. Sachin Tendulkar

Sachin Tendulkar, known as the “God of Cricket,” remains the only cricketer with most runs in ODI history, accumulating an incredible 18,426 runs in 463 matches at an impressive average of 44.83. Over his illustrious career spanning more than two decades, Tendulkar set countless records, including being the first batsman to score 100 international centuries, a feat unmatched to this day. His dominance in ODIs was highlighted by his 49 centuries and 96 half-centuries, consistently delivering match-winning performances for India. Tendulkar made history in 2010 when he became the first player to score a double century in ODIs, smashing 200 against South Africa, a milestone that redefined the format. His ability to adapt across generations, tackle the best bowling attacks, and perform under immense pressure made him a global cricketing icon.

Beyond statistics, Tendulkar’s influence on ODI cricket is unparalleled. He played a pivotal role in India’s 2011 Cricket World Cup triumph, fulfilling his lifelong dream after six World Cup appearances. Recognized as the Player of the Tournament in the 2003 World Cup, he was instrumental in taking India to the final that year. His contributions to Indian cricket earned him numerous accolades, including the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award, making him the first and youngest sportsperson to receive the honor. Even after his retirement from ODIs in 2012, Tendulkar’s legacy continues to inspire cricketers worldwide, and his records remain benchmarks of excellence in the sport.

Legacy of Highest ODI Run Scorers

The five legendary batsmen highlighted in this list—Sachin Tendulkar, Kumar Sangakkara, Virat Kohli, Ricky Ponting, and Sanath Jayasuriya—have left an indelible mark on ODI cricket. Each of them dominated the format in their own unique way, whether through sheer consistency, explosive power, elegant stroke play, or leadership under pressure. Their remarkable records and match-winning performances have not only shaped the history of the game but have also inspired generations of aspiring cricketers across the world.

While their careers have spanned different eras, their influence remains timeless. From Tendulkar’s unmatched records and Kohli’s modern-day dominance to Sangakkara’s class, Ponting’s leadership, and Jayasuriya’s revolutionizing approach, these players have set benchmarks that will stand as challenges for future cricketers when they try to have the title of the cricketer with most runs in ODI history. As the game continues to evolve, their contributions to ODI cricket will always be celebrated, ensuring that their names remain synonymous with excellence in the sport.