Most Runs in ODI Cricket – A Legendary Record

One Day International (ODI) cricket has witnessed many legendary batsmen who have dominated bowlers and entertained fans worldwide. Among them, one player stands at the very top of the record books for scoring the most runs in ODI history — Sachin Tendulkar of India. Widely regarded as the “God of Cricket,” Tendulkar’s ODI career remains unmatched in terms of consistency, longevity, and sheer brilliance.

Sachin Tendulkar – The Run Machine

Sachin Tendulkar made his ODI debut in 1989 as a 16-year-old against Pakistan. Over the next two decades, he became the backbone of India’s batting lineup and an icon for cricket lovers across the globe. By the time he retired from ODIs in 2012, Tendulkar had scored an astonishing 18,426 runs in 463 matches, making him the highest run-scorer in ODI history.

His runs came at an average of 44.83 with 49 centuries and 96 half-centuries — both records at the time of his retirement. Tendulkar was also the first cricketer to score a double century in ODIs, achieving the milestone against South Africa in 2010. His ability to adapt across formats, conditions, and eras cemented his status as one of the greatest batsmen of all time.

Other Great Run-Scorers

While Tendulkar leads the list, several modern legends have also made their mark. Kumar Sangakkara of Sri Lanka ranks second with 14,234 ODI runs, showcasing remarkable consistency. Ricky Ponting from Australia is third with 13,704 runs, followed closely by Sanath Jayasuriya and Virat Kohli.

Virat Kohli, in particular, is the closest active player to Tendulkar’s record. With over 13,000 runs, Kohli is widely expected to surpass several of Tendulkar’s century records, though reaching the overall run tally will remain a monumental challenge.

Why the Record is Special

Scoring runs in ODIs requires not only technical skill but also the ability to handle pressure, rotate strike, and accelerate when needed. Tendulkar’s record is a testament to his dedication, fitness, and love for the game. It also reflects his ability to consistently perform against the world’s best bowlers for over two decades.

Conclusion

The record for the most runs in ODI cricket belongs to Sachin Tendulkar, whose 18,426 runs remain unmatched. While future stars like Virat Kohli continue to chase milestones, Tendulkar’s incredible achievement stands as one of cricket’s greatest records. It is not just about numbers, but about the inspiration he provided to millions of fans and young cricketers worldwide.

Would you like me to also make a top 10 players list with runs and countries so it’s easier to compare?

Most Runs in ODI Cricket – A Legendary Record