Cricket has seen some amazing batsmen over the years, and five players stand out for scoring the most runs in international cricket. all formats of the game. These are Sachin Tendulkar, Kumar Sangakkara, Mahela Jayawardene, Ricky Ponting, and Virat Kohli. Let’s take a look at these legends and their incredible careers.
1. Sachin Tendulkar (India)

- Total Runs: 34,357 runs
- Test Runs: 15,921
- ODI Runs: 18,426
- T20I Runs: 10
- Centuries: 100
- Debut: 1989
Sachin Tendulkar, also known as the “Master Blaster,” is the highest run-scorer in international cricket. With over 34,000 runs, he holds the record for most runs in both ODIs and Tests. He also has an incredible 100 centuries. Tendulkar is considered one of the greatest batsmen ever, and his career, which lasted for over two decades, inspired millions of fans worldwide.
2. Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka)

- Total Runs: 28,016 runs
- Test Runs: 12,400
- ODI Runs: 14,234
- T20I Runs: 1,382
- Centuries: 63
- Debut: 2000
Kumar Sangakkara, Sri Lanka’s legendary wicketkeeper-batsman, is one of the finest to ever play the game. He scored over 28,000 international runs in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is. His graceful batting and ability to perform in big matches made him one of the best of his generation. Sangakkara retired in 2015, leaving behind a legacy of class and consistency.
4. Ricky Ponting (Australia)

- Total Runs: 27,483 runs
- Test Runs: 13,378
- ODI Runs: 13,704
- T20I Runs: 0
- Centuries: 71
- Debut: 1995
Ricky Ponting, one of Australia’s greatest captains, is another legend in world cricket. He scored over 27,000 international runs and was known for his aggressive batting and leadership. Ponting played a key role in Australia’s dominance in world cricket, leading them to multiple World Cup victories. He retired in 2012, leaving behind a legacy as one of the best batsmen and captains in history.
4. Virat Kohli (India)

- Total Runs: 25,074 runs (and still playing)
- Test Runs: 8,490
- ODI Runs: 12,898
- T20I Runs: 4,008
- Centuries: 76
- Debut: 2008
Virat Kohli, still playing and breaking records, is one of the modern-day greats. He has already scored over 25,000 international runs and has more than 70 centuries to his name. Known for his aggressive playing style and ability to chase down big totals, Kohli is one of the best batsmen in the world today. His hunger for runs and consistency across formats makes him a true cricketing legend.
5. Mahela Jayawardene (Sri Lanka)

- Total Runs: 25,957 runs
- Test Runs: 11,814
- ODI Runs: 12,650
- T20I Runs: 1,493
- Centuries: 54
- Debut: 1997
Another Sri Lankan cricket great, Mahela Jayawardene, was known for his solid technique and calm approach at the crease. He scored nearly 26,000 runs across all formats, with over 12,000 runs in ODIs and more than 11,000 in Tests. Jayawardene retired in 2015, but his contributions to Sri Lankan cricket will never be forgotten.
Conclusion:
These five players—Sachin Tendulkar, Kumar Sangakkara, Mahela Jayawardene, Ricky Ponting, and Virat Kohli—are not just among the top run-scorers in international cricket, but they have also shaped the game with their amazing skills, consistency, and impact on the field. Each one of them has a unique style, but all share the ability to perform under pressure and produce runs when their teams need them the most. These legends have set records that will inspire cricketers for many years to come.
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