Most Runs in International Cricket: Test cricket has a rich history that began in 1877 with the first-ever Test match. Nearly a century later, One Day Internationals (ODIs) were introduced in 1971, followed by the shortest format, T20 Internationals, which made their debut in 2005.
Over the years, cricket has largely favored batters, as matches are ultimately decided by which team scores more runs. This has allowed several great batsmen to leave a lasting mark on the game. While many players have achieved legendary status, only a select few have reached the very top in terms of consistency and longevity.
In this blog, we take a look at the top five highest run-scorers in the history of international cricket.
Top 5 Batsmen With Most Runs in International Cricket
5. Mahela Jayawardene – 25,957 Runs
Mahela Jayawardene was one of Sri Lanka’s most dependable middle-order batsmen for nearly two decades. Representing his country from 1997 to 2015, he played 652 international matches, including a handful for Asia XI.
Known for his elegant stroke play and calm presence at the crease, Jayawardene scored 25,957 international runs, which included 54 centuries and 136 half-centuries. His contribution played a vital role in Sri Lanka’s success across formats.
4. Ricky Ponting – 27,483 Runs
Ricky Ponting is widely regarded as one of the greatest captains and batsmen in cricket history. Australia’s all-time leading run-scorer in international cricket, Ponting accumulated 27,483 runs during his illustrious career.
This tally includes a memorable century for the ICC World XI. A fierce competitor and big-match player, Ponting registered 71 international hundreds and 146 fifties, making him one of the most complete batsmen of his era.
3. Kumar Sangakkara – 28,016 Runs
Kumar Sangakkara stands tall as Sri Lanka’s highest run-scorer in international cricket. A classy left-hander who often took on wicket-keeping duties, Sangakkara featured in 594 international matches.
He scored 28,016 runs, including appearances for ICC World XI and Asia XI. Renowned for his technique and consistency, Sangakkara struck 63 centuries and 153 half-centuries, cementing his legacy as one of the finest batters the game has seen.
2. Virat Kohli – 28,068* Runs
Virat Kohli is the only active cricketer on this list and the only one with an international batting average above 50 (at the time of writing). Making his debut in 2008, Kohli has dominated all formats for India.
So far, he has scored 28,068 international runs. Holding the record for the most centuries in ODI cricket, Kohli is often considered the greatest ODI batsman of all time. The former India captain currently has 84 international centuries, second only to one legendary name.
1. Sachin Tendulkar – 34,357 Runs
Sachin Tendulkar remains the undisputed leader when it comes to international runs. Across a remarkable 24-year career and 664 matches, Tendulkar amassed an unmatched 34,357 runs.
He also holds the record for the most international centuries (100) and the most Test hundreds (51). Fondly known as the “Master Blaster,” Tendulkar’s achievements continue to set the benchmark for generations to come.
FAQs
Q. Who has scored the most runs in international cricket?
A. Sachin Tendulkar holds the record for the most runs in international cricket with 34,357 runs.
Q. Can Kohli break Tendulkar’s record for most international runs?
A. Kohli is currently around 6,000 runs behind Tendulkar. Considering that he now plays only ODI cricket and is 37 years old, surpassing Tendulkar’s run tally appears unlikely. However, Kohli still has a strong chance of challenging the record for 100 international centuries, with 84 centuries to his name so far.
[Stats updated till 12 January, 2026]
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