Here are the top 5 leading runs scorer in International Cricket in all formats.
1. Sachin Tendulkar (India): 34,357 runs
Sachin Tendulkar, also known as the “Master Blaster,” holds the record for scoring the most runs in international cricket, an astonishing 34,357 runs across all formats (Tests, ODIs, and T20Is) during his illustrious career for India. His achievements are unparalleled, and he is widely regarded as one of the greatest cricketers in the history of the game.
Here’s a breakdown of his runs in international cricket:
- Tests: 15,921 runs in 200 matches
- ODIs: 18,426 runs in 463 matches
- T20Is: 10 runs in 1 match
Sachin is the leading run scorer in international cricket history in all three formats.
2. Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka): 28,016 runs
Kumar Sangakkara, the legendary Sri Lankan cricketer, is second on the list of most runs in international cricket with an impressive 28,016 runs across all formats. Sangakkara, known for his elegant batting style and consistency, is widely regarded as one of the finest batsmen in the history of the game.
Here’s a breakdown of his international runs:
- Tests: 12,400 runs in 134 matches
- ODIs: 14,234 runs in 404 matches
- T20Is: 1,382 runs in 56 matches
His remarkable career highlights include being a prolific run-scorer, a dependable wicketkeeper for much of his career, and later captaining Sri Lanka. Sangakkara’s ability to perform under pressure and his versatility as a batsman earned him immense respect in the cricketing world.
Kumar Sangakkara is the second leading run scorer in international cricket history in all three formats.
3. Virat Kohli(India): 27,583
Virat Kohli, one of the modern greats of cricket, has amassed an incredible 27,503 runs (as of February 2025) across all formats in international cricket. Known for his aggressive batting, unmatched consistency, and ability to chase under pressure, Kohli has cemented his place among cricket’s elite.
Here’s a breakdown of his international runs:
- Tests: 8,652 runs in 111 matches
- ODIs: 13,937 runs in 275 matches
- T20Is: 4,914 runs in 115 matches
Virat Kohli’s career is defined by his incredible fitness, adaptability, and knack for performing in big matches. He holds numerous records, including the fastest to 8,000, 9,000, 10,000, and 12,000 ODI runs, and remains a central figure in Indian cricket.
4. Ricky Ponting (Australia): 27,483 runs
Ricky Ponting, one of the greatest Australian cricketers and captains in the history of the game, scored an incredible 27,483 runs in international cricket. Known for his aggressive yet classy batting and exceptional leadership, Ponting is a cricketing legend.
Here’s a breakdown of his international runs:
- Tests: 13,378 runs in 168 matches
- ODIs: 13,704 runs in 375 matches
- T20Is: 401 runs in 17 matches
Ponting was renowned for his ability to dominate bowlers across all formats and in all conditions. Under his captaincy, Australia became a formidable side, winning two ICC Cricket World Cups (2003 and 2007). His legacy as a batsman and leader remains unmatched in Australian cricket history.
5. Mahela Jayawardene (Sri Lanka): 25,957 runs
Mahela Jayawardene, one of Sri Lanka’s finest cricketers, scored an impressive 25,957 runs in international cricket. Renowned for his graceful stroke play and cricketing intellect, Jayawardene was a pillar of Sri Lankan cricket during his career.
Here’s a breakdown of his international runs:
- Tests: 11,814 runs in 149 matches
- ODIs: 12,650 runs in 448 matches
- T20Is: 1,493 runs in 55 matches
Jayawardene’s remarkable achievements include his partnership with Kumar Sangakkara, with whom he formed one of the most successful batting duos in cricket history. He also captained Sri Lanka to the final of the 2007 ICC Cricket World Cup and was instrumental in their victory at the 2014 ICC T20 World Cup.
Notably, Virat Kohli continues to be an active player, potentially increasing his tally in upcoming matches.