Some players have stood out in ODI World Cup history for their remarkable ability to score runs under pressure. India’s Sachin Tendulkar leads this list and holds the record for the most runs scored in World Cup tournaments, even after his last game being in 2011.
The ICC Cricket World Cup is one of the biggest events in international cricket, held every four years. Teams worldwide compete for this prestigious trophy, making it a stage where players can show their skills on a global level.
This article will examine the players with the highest runs in ODI World Cups. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear idea about exactly how well these batsmen played over the years.
We hope to show the skill and determination needed to succeed in the Cricket World Cup.
Table Of Most Runs In ODI World Cup History
Starting from the master blaster, the list goes on till Chris Gayle. The only batsmen on this list who can probably break the top record are Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, or David Warner!
| Player | Matches | Runs | Highest Score | Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sachin Tendulkar | 45 | 2278 | 152 | 56.95 |
| Virat Kohli | 37 | 1795 | 117 | 59.83 |
| Ricky Ponting | 46 | 1743 | 140* | 45.86 |
| Rohit Sharma | 28 | 1575 | 140 | 60.57 |
| Kumar Sangakara | 37 | 1532 | 124 | 56.74 |
| David Warner | 29 | 1527 | 178 | 56.55 |
| Shakib Al Hasan | 36 | 1332 | 124* | 41.62 |
| Brian Lara | 34 | 1225 | 116 | 42.24 |
| AB de Villiers | 23 | 1207 | 162* | 63.52 |
| Chris Gayle | 35 | 1186 | 215 | 35.93 |
In the following section, get to know how their tournaments went over the years and their run distribution in detail:
1. Sachin Tendulkar (1992-2011)
| Span | Runs | Fours | Sixes | 100s | 50s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1992-2011 | 2278 | 241 | 27 | 6 | 15 |
Sachin Tendulkar, known as the “Master Blaster,” is the highest run-scorer in ICC World Cups, amassing 2,278 runs over his career in the tournament. Across 45 matches, he achieved six centuries and 15 half-centuries. He holds the record for scoring the most fifties in ODI cricket as well as most hundreds in ODI.
His 152 highest score and consistent performances in high-pressure matches, especially during the 2003 World Cup, helped India advance to the finals. Tendulkar’s adaptability, reliability, and skill against top bowlers made him an icon in cricket and a critical figure for Indian cricket fans worldwide.
2. Virat Kohli (2011-2023)
| Span | Runs | Fours | Sixes | 100s | 50s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2011-2023 | 1795 | 159 | 14 | 5 | 12 |
Virat Kohli, known for his skill in chasing high scores, has become a World Cup standout, scoring 1,795 runs at an impressive average of 59.83. His five centuries in World Cups reveal his ability to handle pressure and perform in crucial matches.
Kohli’s highest score of 117 demonstrates his knack for building innings in both group-stage and knockout matches. His mental toughness, alongside his disciplined batting technique, makes him one of India’s key assets in ICC tournaments, bringing stability and confidence to the lineup.
3. Ricky Ponting (1996-2011)
| Span | Runs | Fours | Sixes | 100s | 50s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1996-2011 | 1743 | 145 | 31 | 5 | 6 |
Australian captain Ricky Ponting’s stellar World Cup career, with 1,743 runs, highlighted his role as a powerful batsman and leader. Known for his ability to score under pressure, he guided Australia through several tournaments.
Ponting’s leadership was instrumental in Australia’s dominance, as he set an example with both his aggressive play and consistent performance. His five centuries in World Cups, paired with his strategic mindset, have left an enduring mark on Australia’s cricketing legacy.
4. Rohit Sharma (2015-2023)
| Span | Runs | Fours | Sixes | 100s | 50s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2015-2023 | 1575 | 145 | 31 | 7 | 6 |
Rohit Sharma, known for his elegant stroke play and ability to score big centuries, has made a significant impact in the World Cup. He holds the record for the highest individual score in ODI cricket. His knack for converting starts into substantial scores and his record-breaking performance in the 2019 World Cup, where he scored five centuries.
His highest score of 140 highlights his capability to anchor innings. Known for his calm approach and explosive hitting, Rohit consistently gives India strong starts, setting up the team for competitive scores in high-stakes matches.
5. Kumar Sangakkara (2003-2015)
| Span | Runs | Fours | Sixes | 100s | 50s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2003-2015 | 1532 | 147 | 14 | 5 | 7 |
Kumar Sangakkara, the former Sri Lankan captain, was a key performer in ICC World Cups, amassing 1,532 runs at a remarkable average of 56.74. He holds the record for scoring four consecutive centuries in the 2015 World Cup.
Sangakkara’s highest score of 124 reflects his ability to lead Sri Lanka’s innings effectively. His contributions with both the bat and his wicketkeeping were instrumental in many of Sri Lanka’s deep tournament runs.
6. David Warner (2015-2023)
| Span | Runs | Fours | Sixes | 100s | 50s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2015-2023 | 1527 | 154 | 31 | 6 | 5 |
David Warner’s aggressive batting style has made him a vital player in ICC tournaments, with 1,527 runs in World Cups.
Known for his powerful starts, Warner’s highest score of 178 against Afghanistan in the 2015 World Cup showcases his ability to build large innings.
His average of 56.55 and strike rate above 100 make him a difficult player for opponents to contain. Warner’s consistency at the top of the order adds momentum to the Australian lineup.
7. Shakib Al Hasan (2007-2023)
| Span | Runs | Fours | Sixes | 100s | 50s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2007-2023 | 1332 | 128 | 12 | 2 | 11 |
Shakib Al Hasan has scored 1,332 runs in 36 World Cup innings since 2007, averaging 41.62. With two centuries and 11 half-centuries, Shakib is a dependable all-rounder for Bangladesh. His top score is 124*.
In addition to his batting, Shakib’s skill as a bowler makes him invaluable. His dual role as a consistent run-scorer and a wicket-taker has made him Bangladesh’s most complete cricketer, especially in crucial World Cup games.
8. Brian Lara (1992-2007)
| Span | Runs | Fours | Sixes | 100s | 50s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1992-2007 | 1225 | 31 | 17 | 2 | 7 |
Brian Lara scored 1,225 runs in 34 World Cup matches from 1992 to 2007, with an average of 42.24. Known for his classic style and precision, Lara hit two centuries and seven fifties, with a high score of 116.
Lara’s calm approach and experience added resilience to his team’s batting lineup. His ability to build innings steadily allowed the West Indies to challenge some of the strongest teams, making him a pillar in West Indies’ World Cup campaigns.
9. AB de Villiers (2007-2015)
| Span | Runs | Fours | Sixes | 100s | 50s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2007-2015 | 1207 | 121 | 37 | 4 | 6 |
AB de Villiers scored 1,207 runs in 23 World Cup matches from 2007 to 2015, with an average of 63.52. His highest score is 162*, and he is known for his innovative and aggressive batting. With four centuries and six fifties, de Villiers was a key player.
De Villiers’ unorthodox shots and adaptability allowed him to change games quickly. His quick scoring and fearless approach made him a standout performer in World Cups, where he often led South Africa’s chase or bolstered their total.
10. Chris Gayle (2003-2019)
| Span | Runs | Fours | Sixes | 100s | 50s |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2003-2019 | 1186 | 116 | 49 | 2 | 6 |
Chris Gayle scored 1,186 runs in 35 World Cup games from 2003 to 2019, with an average of 35.93. Known for his explosive power, he made two centuries and six half-centuries, with a top score of 215.
Gayle’s ability to hit massive sixes put pressure on bowlers from the start. His fearless attitude and electrifying presence at the crease gave the West Indies a powerful opener who could transform matches with just a few overs.
Conclusion: Sachin Tendulkar Is The Leading Run Scorer In ODI World Cup
ICC Cricket World Cup has seen some extraordinary batsmen who have left a lasting mark through their remarkable run-scoring abilities. Players like Sachin Tendulkar, who leads with the highest number of World Cup runs, have set benchmarks highlighting individual excellence and the spirit of the World Cup.
Their contributions have defined key moments in World Cup tournaments and inspired fans around the world. The resilience, technique, and passion displayed by these batsmen set them apart.
These players have created a high standard, and their achievements serve as inspiration for upcoming talents aiming for greatness in the world of cricket.
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