Most Runs in ODI – A Look at Record Holders in International Cricket

Introduction

One-Day International (ODI) cricket has been a platform for players to showcase their talents, entertain crowds, and etch their names in the history books. Among the most celebrated records in ODI cricket is the title of the highest run-scorer. This article explores the players who have scored the most runs in ODI cricket, as recognized by the International Cricket Council (ICC).

1. Sachin Tendulkar (India)

The first name that comes to mind when discussing the highest run-scorers in ODI cricket is undoubtedly Sachin Tendulkar of India. The “Little Master,” as he is fondly known, holds the record for the most runs in ODI history. Tendulkar amassed an incredible 18,426 runs in 463 matches from 1989 to 2012. His career included 49 centuries and 96 half-centuries, with a highest score of 200 not out – the first double century in men’s ODI cricket.

2. Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka)

Kumar Sangakkara, one of the greatest batsmen produced by Sri Lanka, is another top run-getter in ODI cricket. The classy left-hander scored 14,234 runs in 404 matches during his career spanning from 2000 to 2015. Sangakkara, known for his elegant stroke play and astute cricketing mind, hit 25 centuries and 93 half-centuries in his ODI career.

3. Ricky Ponting (Australia)

Australia’s Ricky Ponting is one of the most successful captains in cricket history, and his batting prowess in ODIs is noteworthy. Ponting scored 13,704 runs in 375 matches, with a career spanning from 1995 to 2012. Known for his aggressive batting style and excellent fielding, Ponting’s career included 30 centuries and 82 half-centuries.

4. Sanath Jayasuriya (Sri Lanka)

Sanath Jayasuriya, also known as the “Matara Mauler,” is another Sri Lankan who has left an indelible mark on ODI cricket. Jayasuriya was known for his explosive batting at the top of the order. He scored 13,430 runs in 445 matches from 1989 to 2011, which included 28 centuries and 68 half-centuries.

5. Mahela Jayawardene (Sri Lanka)

Another Sri Lankan, Mahela Jayawardene, is among the top run-scorers in ODI cricket. Jayawardene, known for his elegant batting and excellent cricketing acumen, scored 12,650 runs in 448 matches from 1998 to 2015. His ODI career included 19 centuries and 77 half-centuries.

Conclusion

ODI cricket has seen many great batsmen who have enthralled fans with their skills and accumulated a significant number of runs. The players listed above have not only been prolific run-scorers but have also significantly influenced the game’s progress. Their records stand as a testament to their dominance in the ODI format and their significant contribution to cricket. As the game continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see who might challenge these records in the future.

Note: The figures mentioned in this article are based on statistics available up to September 2021.