Top 10 Highest Run Scorers in International Cricket
1. Sachin Tendulkar (India)
2. Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka)
Kumar Sangakkara is known for his elegant batting style, sharp footwork, and exceptional consistency. He played a key role in elevating Sri Lankan cricket on the world stage. Despite being a full-time wicketkeeper for most of his career, he scored 28,016 runs-showing incredible skill and fitness. His calm nature and leadership qualities further enhanced his legacy.
3. Virat Kohli (India)
Virat Kohli is the biggest modern-day batting superstar. His fitness, aggression, and unmatched chasing ability make him a dangerous player in all formats. With 27,673 runs and the record for the most ODI centuries, he continues to dominate international cricket. His consistency, passion, and hunger for runs define his extraordinary career, which is still going strong.
4. Ricky Ponting (Australia)
Ricky Ponting is one of the most successful captains in the history of cricket. His aggressive batting and ability to dominate bowlers helped Australia win countless matches. Under his leadership, Australia won two consecutive ICC Cricket World Cups, strengthening his place as a legend. With 27,483 runs, he remains one of the biggest match-winners the game has ever seen.
5. Mahela Jayawardene (Sri Lanka)
Mahela Jayawardene is remembered for his classical batting style, perfect timing, and calm temperament. He was a master at building long innings, especially in challenging conditions. Scoring 25,957 runs across formats, he proved his consistency throughout his career. His ability to read the match situation and play accordingly made him one of Sri Lanka’s greatest batsmen.
6. Jacques Kallis (South Africa)
Jacques Kallis is considered one of the greatest all-rounders the game has ever produced. He contributed equally with bat and ball, making him a complete match-winner. With 25,534 runs and 577 wickets, he offered balance and stability to the South African team. His solid technique and calm attitude made him one of the most reliable players in world cricket.
7. Rahul Dravid (India)
Rahul Dravid, often called “The Wall,” is known for his solid defence and incredible patience at the crease. He could stand firm on any pitch against any bowling attack. With 24,208 international runs, he was one of India’s most dependable batsmen. His discipline, humility, and calm personality still serve as a benchmark for young cricketers.
8. Brian Lara (West Indies)
Brian Lara is celebrated for his stylish strokeplay and ability to play long, match-winning innings. He had the rare ability to dominate even the best bowlers with ease. With 22,358 international runs, he was one of India’s most dependable batsmen. His unbeaten 400, the highest individual score in Test cricket, is a testament to his talent and mental toughness. Lara remains one of the brightest stars in West Indies cricket history.
9. Joe Root (England)
Joe Root is known for his unique batting stance and extraordinary patience. He had the ability to rescue his team from the toughest positions with his steady and determined approach. With 21,766 runs, he became the backbone of the England batting lineup for many years. His grit and resilience made him one of the most reliable batsmen of his era.
10. Sanath Jayasuriya (Sri Lanka)
Sanath Jayasuriya revolutionized ODI cricket with his explosive batting at the top of the order. His aggressive approach in the first 15 overs changed the way teams looked at limited-overs cricket. Scoring 21,032 runs, he built a reputation as a true match-winner. His fearless batting style has influenced generations of modern openers.
Also Read: Top 10 Batsmen with Most Runs in T20I Cricket History
SOURCE: ICC Stats
UPDATED: 18 November 2025