Top 10 Most Runs in ODI Cricket History

The race for the most runs in ODI cricket history is a story of two Indian legends — Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli. Tendulkar’s unmatched 18,426-run record remains the gold standard, while Kohli, the modern-day chase master, continues to close in with record-breaking consistency. Their dominance across eras defines cricketing greatness and inspires fans worldwide with every milestone they achieve.

The Unmatched Glory: Who Holds the Most Runs in ODI Cricket History?

The world of One Day International (ODI) cricket has witnessed some of the most excellent batting performances in sporting history. It's a format that demands skill, stamina, and consistency — and only a few have mastered it.

At the top of this record-breaking list stand two Indian icons — Sachin Tendulkar, the Master Blaster, and Virat Kohli, the Chase Master. The battle for the title of Most Runs in ODI Cricket History defines both greatness and longevity. One holds the crown, while the other is rapidly closing in, rewriting history along the way.

The Pinnacle of ODI Batting: Cricket's Ultimate Run-Scorers

For decades, fans have been captivated by the race to the top of the ODI run-scoring charts. Achieving this milestone takes far more than natural talent — it's about discipline, fitness, mental toughness, and a burning desire to perform across eras, formats, and conditions.

Sachin Tendulkar – The Master Blaster Who Set the Benchmark

When we talk about ODI greatness, Sachin Tendulkar stands in a league of his own. His incredible career spanned 23 years, during which he carried the expectations of an entire nation. His records go beyond numbers — they reflect dominance, determination, and timeless excellence.

• Sachin Tendulkar's ODI Record:
• Total Runs: 18,426
• Centuries: 49
• Matches: 463
• Average: 44.83

Tendulkar remains the top run-scorer in ODI history, a title that has stood the test of time. From elegant drives to fearless uppercuts, he mastered every condition and every opponent. He was also the first male cricketer to score a double century in ODIs, a record that redefined batting possibilities.

Virat Kohli – The Chase Master Redefining Consistency

In the modern era, Virat Kohli has become the gold standard for ODI batting. Known for his flawless technique and unmatched ability to chase targets, Kohli has redefined how consistency looks in limited-overs cricket.

Recently, he climbed to the 2nd position on the all-time run-scorers list, overtaking legends like Kumar Sangakkara. What makes his record remarkable is not just the sheer volume of runs, but the rate at which he has achieved them.

• Virat Kohli's ODI Record (as of Oct 2025):
• Total Runs: 14,255
• Centuries: 51 (Most in ODI history)
• Matches: 305
• Average: 57.71

Virat Kohli has already surpassed Tendulkar's record of 49 centuries and continues to maintain one of the highest batting averages in ODI history. His hunger for runs and his ability to chase under pressure make him one of cricket's greatest modern-day icons.

Top 10 Players with the Most Runs in ODI Cricket History

Here is the list of top 10 players  with the most runs in ODI cricket History by innings. 

Rank	Players	INNS	RUNS	AVERAGE
1	SACHIN TENDULKAR	452	18426	44.83
2	VIRAT KOHLI	292	14255	57.71
3	KUMAR SANGAKARA	380	14234	41.98
4	RICKY PONTING	365	13704	42.03
5	SANATH JAYASURYA	433	13430	32.36
6	MAHELA JAYAWARSANE	418	12650	33.37
7	INZAMAM UL-HAQ	350	11739	39.52
8	JACQUES KALLIS	314	11579	44.36
9	SAURAV GANGULY	300	11363	41.04
10	ROHIT SHARMA	268	11338	48.88

Tendulkar vs. Kohli – A Battle of Eras

Players	Matches	ODI Runs	ODI Avg.	ODI Century
SACHIN TENDULKAR	462	18426	44.83	49
VIRAT KOHLI	305*	14255*	57.71	51*

While Tendulkar's legacy is built on longevity and groundbreaking milestones, Kohli's dominance lies in unmatched consistency and intensity. Comparing them isn't about rivalry — it's about celebrating two eras of batting brilliance that continue to inspire millions of cricket fans.

A Legacy That Defines Greatness

The record for the Most Runs in ODI Cricket History still belongs to Sachin Tendulkar, the undisputed God of Cricket. Yet, Virat Kohli's pursuit of that mark has added a thrilling new chapter to the game's story.

Whether or not Virat Kohli surpasses Tendulkar's legendary total, both players have already achieved immortality. Their numbers may tell one story, but their impact — on fans, on teammates, and on the sport itself — will remain unmatched.

For now, the cricket world continues to watch in awe as the Chase Master edges closer to the Master Blaster's seemingly unbreakable record.

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