Most runs in career in T20s: The multiple superstars chasing Chris Gayle’s record

Who has the scored the most runs in T20 cricket?

Find out more about the highest run-scorers in T20s.

Alex Hales is climbing this list at a rapid rate.

1. Chris Gayle

With 22 centuries and more than 14,000 runs, Gayle is unequivocally the leading run-scorer in T20 cricket. He has more than 1,000 T20 sixes. Fans won’t soon forget that 175 not out he banged out for RCB against the Pune Warriors in the 2013 IPL.

2. Alex Hales

Hales recently became just the third man to reach 14,000 runs in T20 cricket. Many will argue that a lot more of these should have been scored for England.

3. Kieron Pollard

Remarkably, Pollard has only collected one century en route to 13,000-plus runs in T20 competition. He’s more of a mentor and coach than player these days, but remains actively involved in the Caribbean Premier League as a batter.

4. David Warner

Warner is one of just seven cricketers to have 13,000 runs or more in T20 cricket. He is the only Australia player with the feat. Warner is one of only cricketers in the history of the format to collect 100-plus half-centuries.

5. Shoaib Malik

Even more remarkably, Malik has not recorded a single century, yet has scored the second most runs in the history of professional T20 cricket. He has 83 half-tons.

6. Virat Kohli

The bulk of Kohli’s T20 career, if not with India, has been with the Royal Challengers Bangalore. Only Azam and Gayle have hit more centuries than Kohl’s nine in this format.

Also read: These are the 9 biggest sixes in the history of cricket

7. Jos Buttler

Buttler made the Gujarat Titans his new Indian Premier League home in 2025 and performed well. He’s also a veritable run-machine for Lancashire in the T20 Blast.

8. James Vince

Vince has played for far fewer T20 teams than most of his contemporaries on this list, perhaps forging some sort of pseudo loyalty at one or two franchises in particular. Many of his 450-plus T20 caps have been collected at home, in the T20 Blast.

9. Rohit Sharma

Sharma has only played professional T20 cricket for India, the Mumbai Indians and Deccan Chargers. He has eight tons and almost 12,000 runs in this format. He is a multiple IPL title-winning captain.

10. Faf du Plessis

A name synonymous with the Chennai Super Kings and, more recently, the Royal Challengers Bangalore, du Plessis is nearing 450 T20 caps for his near 12,000 T20 runs.

11. Colin Munro

Munro was among the first to effectively ditch a longstanding career with New Zealand to instead play T20 cricket around the world. The decision has served him well enough en route to 15 years in the format for almost 12,000 runs.

12. David Miller

Miller was arguably wasted at the Kings XI Punjab in the IPL for an extended period. A move to the Gujarat Titans has boosted his T20 career, which has yielded almost 15,000 runs so far.

13. Aaron Finch

From captaining Australia in T20 cricket to impressing for other franchises such as the Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL, Finch has a highest T20 score of 172 – he did it against Zimbabwe in 2018.

14. Babar Azam

Azam has been a huge ambassador for the Pakistan Super League for several years – and effectively advertised the calibre of the league elsewhere around the world as well. He is also closing in on 11,500 T20 runs

15. Quinton de Kock

Whether de Kock will ever play T20I cricket for South Africa remains in the balance. He’s a household name in domestic T20 competitions around the world now. He, too, has seven centuries in this format.

16. Glenn Maxwell

Maxwell’s 10,000-plus tally includes eight centuries and a highest score of 154 not out. He is one of only eight among this top 16 to collect more than 500 sixes.

Most runs in T20 cricket – top 16 summary list

1. Chris Gayle
2. Alex Hales
3. Kieron Pollard
4. David Warner
5. Shoaib Malik
6. Virat Kohli
7. Jos Buttler
8. James Vince
9. Rohit Sharma
10. Faf du Plessis
11. Colin Munro
12. David Miller
13. Aaron Finch
14. Babar Azam
15. Quinton de Kock
16. Glenn Maxwell

Read next: Country with the most ODI hat-tricks – it’s not India, Australia or England

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Which country has been on the receiving end of the most ODI hat-tricks?

Dilshan Madushanka’s hat-trick for Sri Lanka against Zimbabwe this week yielded the surprise information that no country has bagged more hat-tricks in ODI cricket than Sri Lanka.

But there’s a flip side to claiming a hat-trick and that’s being on the receiving end of it. Which begs the question which nation has been on the receiving end of the most hat-tricks? Once again, it’s not the country you would think.

While there are far more countries to have been on the receiving end of hat-tricks, lets look at the six nations which have conceded the most since the inception of ODI cricket.

1. Zimbabwe: nine

• Bowler: Saqlain Mushtaq (Pakistan); Victims: Grant Flower (c Moin Khan), John Rennie (c Moin Khan), Andy Whittall (c Saleem Malik); 3 November 1996
• Bowler: Saqlain Mushtaq (Pakistan); Victims: Henry Olonga (st Moin Khan), Adam Huckle (st Moin Khan), Pommie Mbangwa (lbw); 11 June 1999
• Bowler: Chaminda Vaas (Sri Lanka); Victims: Stuart Carlisle (c Suresh Perera), Craig Wishart (lbw), Tatenda Taibu (lbw); 8 December 2001
• Bowler: Shahadat Hossain (Bangladesh); Victims: Tafadzwa Mufambisi (c Khaled Mashud), Elton Chigumbura (lbw), Tawanda Mupariwa (c Khaled Mashud), 2 August 2006
• Bowler: Abdur Razzak (Bangladesh); Victims: Prosper Utseya (c Naeem Islam), Ray Price (lbw), Christopher Mpofu (lbw); 3 December 2010
• Bowler: Taijul Islam (Bangladesh); Victims: Tinashe Panyangara (b), John Nyumbu (lbw), Tendai Chatara (b); 1 December 2014
• Bowler: Wanindu Hasaranga (Sri Lanka); Victims: Malcolm Waller (b), Donald Tiripano (lbw), Tendai Chatara (b); 2 July 2017
• Bowler: Imran Tahir (South Africa); Victims: Sean Williams (st Heinrich Klaasen), Peter Moor (lbw), Brandon Mavuta (b); 3 October 2018
• Dilshan Madushanka (Sri Lanka); Victims: Sikandar Raza (bowled), Brad Evans (caught), Richard Ngarava (bowled); 29 August 2025

2. Australia: eight

• Bowler: Jalal-ud-Din (Pakistan); Victims: Rod Marsh (b), Bruce Yardley (c Wasim Bari), Geoff Lawson (b); 20 September 1982
• Bowler: Wasim Akram (Pakistan); Victims: Merv Hughes (b), Carl Rackemann (b), Terry Alderman (b); 4 May 1990
• Bowler: Jerome Taylor (West Indies); Victims: Michael Hussey (b), Brett Lee (lbw), Brad Hogg (b); 18 October 2006
• Bowler: Shane Bond (New Zealand); Victims: Cameron White (c Craig McMillan), Andrew Symonds (c Brendon McCullum), Nathan Bracken (b); 14 January 2007
• Bowler: Lasith Malinga (Sri Lanka); Victims: Mitchell Johnson (b), John Hastings (lbw), Xavier Doherty (b); 22 August 2011
• Bowler: Steven Finn (England); Victims: Brad Haddin (c Stuart Broad), Glenn Maxwell (c Joe Root), Mitchell Johnson (c James Anderson); 14 February 2015
• Bowler: Kuldeep Yadav (India); Victims: Matthew Wade (b), Ashton Agar (lbw), Pat Cummins (c MS Dhoni); 21 September 2017
• Bowler: Trent Boult (New Zealand); Victims: Usman Khawaja (b), Mitchell Starc (b), Jason Behrendorff (lbw); 29 June 2019

Also read: Country with the most ODI hat-tricks – it’s not India, Australia or England

3. Sri Lanka: five

• Bowler: Kapil Dev (India); Victims: Roshan Mahanama (c Kiran More), Rumesh Ratnayake (lbw), Sanath Jayasuriya (c Sanjay Manjrekar); 4 January 1991
• Bowler: Dan Christian (Australia); Victims: Thisara Perera (c Michael Hussey), Sachithra Senanayake (lbw), Nuwan Kulasekara (lbw); 2 March 2012
• Bowler: JP Duminy (South Africa); Victims: Angelo Mathews (c Faf du Plessis), Nuwan Kulasekara (c Quinton de Kock); Tharindu Kaushal (lbw); 18 March 2015
• Bowler: James Faulkner (Australia); Victims: Kusal Perera (lbw), Angelo Mathews (c Moises Henriques), Thisara Perera (b); 24 August 2016
• Bowler: Taskin Ahmed (Bangladesh); Victims: Asela Gunaratne (c Soumya Sarkar), Suranga Lakmal (c Mustafizur Rahman), Nuwan Pradeep (b); 28 March 2017

4. New Zealand: five

• Bowler: Bruce Reid (Australia); Victims: Bruce Blair (c Greg Matthews), Ervin McSweeney (c Allan Border), Stu Gillespie (b); 29 January 1986
• Bowler: Chetan Sharma (India); Victims: Ken Rutherford (b), Ian Smith (b), Ewen Chatfield (b); 31 October 1987
• Bowler: Waqar Younis (Pakistan); Victims: Chris Harris (b), Chris Pringle (b), Richard de Groen (b); 19 December 1994
• Bowler: Rubel Hossain (Bangladesh); Victims: Corey Anderson (b), Brendon McCullum (c Shamsur Rahman); Jimmy Neesham (c Mushfiqur Rahim); 29 October 2013
• Bowler: Maheesh Theekshana (Sri Lanka); Victims: Mitchell Santner (c Chamindu Wickramasinghe), Nathan Smith (c Kamindu Mendis), Matt Henry (c Nuwanidu Fernando); 8 January 2025

5. West Indies: five

• Bowler: Wasim Akram (Pakistan); Victims: Jeff Dujon (b), Malcolm Marshall (b), Curtly Ambrose (b); 14 October 1989
• Bowler: Mohammad Sami (Pakistan); Victims: Ridley Jacobs (lbw), Corey Collymore (b), Cameron Cuffy (b); 15 February 2002
• Bowler: Charl Langeveldt (South Africa); Victims: Ian Bradshaw (b), Daren Powell (b), Corey Collymore (lbw); 11 May 2005
• Bowler: Andrew Flintoff (England); Victims: Denesh Ramdin (b), Ravi Rampaul (lbw), Sulieman Benn (b); 3 April 2009
• Bowler: Kuldeep Yadav (India); Victims: Shai Hope (c Virat Kohli), Jason Holder (st Rishabh Pant), Alzarri Joseph (c Kedar Jadhav); 18 December 2019

6. India: four

• Bowler: Aaqib Javed (Pakistan); Victims: Ravi Shastri (lbw), Mohammad Azharuddin (lbw), Sachin Tendulkar (lbw); 25 October 1991
• Bowler: Danny Morrison (New Zealand); Victims: Kapil Dev (b), Salil Ankola (b), Nayan Mongia (b); 25 March 1994
• Bowler: Steve Harmison (England); Victims: Mohammad Kaif (c Geraint Jones), Lakshmi Balaji (c Andrew Flintoff), Ashish Nehra (c&b); 1 September 2004
• Bowler: Farveez Maharoof (Sri Lanka); Victims: Ravi Jadeja (lbw), Praveen Kumar (b), Zaheer Khan (c Kumar Sangakkara); 22 June 2010

Read next: Who has hit the most Test centuries for Australia?

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Cheteshwar Pujara takes these 7 interesting records into international retirement

Although he hasn’t played Test cricket since 2023, Indian legend Cheteshwar Pujara officially confirmed his retirement from the game recently, bringing the curtain down on a career that saw him play 103 Tests for the Indian team.

He never played in a T20I and featured in just five ODIs. Pujara was a classical cricketer with a proper Test match temperament.

Playing in an era of high-profile stars like MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, Sachin Tendulkar and Rohit Sharma, Pujara was a man who went about his business quietly and efficiently.

This is evidenced by his incredible body of work that saw him finish with 7,195 Test runs, at an average of 43.60 with a highest score of 206 not out.

Following the confirmation of his retirement, let’s take a moment to look at some of the statistical highlights from the career of Cheteshwar Pujara.

1. 5,000 Test career runs and 50 fielding dismissals

Reaching the landmark of 5,000 Test runs is often seen as the dividing line between a good international batsman and a great one. Pujara passed that milestone in January 2019 against Australia at Sydney, in the middle of what was arguably the finest series of his career.

By the end of his career, he had over 7,000 runs; a total that puts him among India’s most prolific Test batters.

Equally important was his contribution in the field. Pujara was an ever-reliable slipper, often stationed next to Virat Kohli in the cordon. He finished with 66 catches in Tests, a neat statistical pairing with his 5,000-run landmark.

2. Batting on each day of a five-day Test

Only a select group of players (13 in total) have managed the feat of batting on every single day of a Test match, and Pujara joined this rare company in 2017 against Sri Lanka in Colombo.

Having batted across both innings, he was at the crease on all five days of the match, underlining his powers of concentration and endurance.

It summed up his role in the Indian side: the man who could be trusted to dig in, blunt the opposition attack, and occupy the crease for hours on end.

Admittedly his effort in joining this list was aided by rain.

Many of the batters on this list have secured their place on the list off the back of substantial knocks; Pujara makes it here with scores of 52 (made over the first three days) and 22 (which started on day four and ended on day five).

3. 47th on list of most Test centuries – 19

While Pujara was rarely known for explosive batting, he accumulated centuries with regularity across a decade of international cricket. He finished with 19 Test hundreds, putting him 47th on the all-time list and firmly among India’s top century-makers.

Each of his hundreds carried weight, often coming against strong opposition and in high-pressure situations.

Perhaps none were more memorable than his three tons made on the 2018 tour to Australia where he was named Player of the Series as India secured their first-ever series win in Australia.

Pujara starred in that four-game series with knocks of 123 in Adelaide, 106 in Melbourne and 193 in Sydney.

Also read: Most wickets in T20 cricket – Shakib Al Hasan becomes 5th bowler to magnificent milestone

4. 28th on list of most Test double-centuries – 3

Few batsmen in the modern game have had the patience and concentration required to compile double centuries. Pujara managed the feat three times, placing him 28th on the all-time list of most double hundreds in a Test career.

His first, a career-best 206 not out against England at Ahmedabad in 2012, came early in his career and announced him as a player ready to fill Rahul Dravid’s shoes at No. 3.

His other double hundreds, both at home against Australia, further emphasized his ability to play marathon innings.

5. Century and a 90 in same Test

In 2017 at Ranchi, against Australia, Pujara produced one of his more unusual statistical quirks – a century and a score in the 90s in the same Test match. He made 202 in India’s first innings, before following it up with 92 in the second.

The double-act reinforced his reputation as a man capable of wearing down attacks over long spells, while also demonstrating the resilience to back up a huge innings with another substantial score.

It was a hallmark of his consistency at the highest level. While Pujara was a great batsman, playing Australia seemed to bring out the best in him. His career average was 43.6, his average against Australia was a fraction under 50.

6. 45th on list of most fours in Tests – 863

Pujara was never a player who relied on brute force or six-hitting. Instead, his runs flowed through precision stroke-play, placement, and patience. Across his 103 Tests, he struck 863 boundaries, leaving him 45th on the list of most career fours in Test history.

The statistic reflects both his style and method, an old-school batsman who believed in playing proper cricket shots, accumulating runs through timing rather than innovation.

7. 30th on list of longest individual innings by balls – 525

Endurance was always Pujara’s trademark, and one of his most remarkable efforts came in 2017 against Australia in Ranchi.

Facing a world-class bowling attack featuring Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Nathan Lyon and Steve O’Keefe (who bowled a massive 77 overs), Pujara batted for 525 deliveries to make 202.

That marathon innings ranks as the 30th longest by balls faced in the history of Test cricket. It was the ultimate demonstration of his stubbornness, discipline, and willingness to grind bowlers into the ground.

Read next: Did Chris Gayle get named in this West Indies’ best Test XI of the past 40 years?

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Which of these 7 batters would you have bat for your life?

We spend a lot of time looking at statistics and comparing players’ achievements and milestones, but how about we create a hypothetical situation… imagine your life was on the line and you had to pick a player to bat for your life.

Who would you pick? In this scenario, you need to find a complete all-format player. This isn’t just about holding up an end and blocking for a draw.

This is about adapting to a situation and delivering victory. Failure to win would spell the worst kind of trouble (remember, we are playing for your life).

So, to paraphrase the words of the late Dennis Hopper from the movie Speed: “Pop quiz $%#@… Who you gonna choose?” For the sake of clarity, we’re only looking at players who are still active. Here are our seven contenders, assessed across all three formats.

1. Virat Kohli (India)

• Test average: 46.85
• ODI average: 57.88
• T20I average: 48.69

Kohli is the obvious first name on this list. His ODI average alone places him among the all-time greats, while his ability to chase under pressure is legendary.

He has mastered the art of pacing an innings, shifting gears seamlessly from patience to aggression. In Tests, he remains one of the most disciplined batsmen of the modern era, capable of batting long hours against the best.

In T20Is, his adaptability and consistency remain unmatched. If your life depends on one man to get the job done across conditions and formats, Kohli is hard to look past.

2. Babar Azam (Pakistan)

• Test average: 42.77
• ODI average: 54.23
• T20I average: 39.83

Babar brings elegance and efficiency in equal measures. His ODI record is world-class, with a consistency that rivals Kohli’s prime years. In T20Is, he provides stability at the top, often ensuring Pakistan are in control of run chases.

While his Test numbers are not quite as dominant as some others on this list, Babar’s technique and temperament suggest he is capable of grinding out big scores. He has calmness under pressure and the ability to adapt his game depending on the situation.

The big question here is which Babar are you going to get? His recent has been below par, but when he is good, he is very, very good.

3. Kane Williamson (New Zealand)

• Test average: 54.88
• ODI average: 49.21
• T20I average: 33.44

Williamson is the ultimate problem-solver. His Test average speaks volumes about his ability to bat through challenging conditions. In ODIs, his calmness and tactical intelligence have made him one of the most reliable middle-order players in world cricket.

T20Is may not be his strongest format statistically, but his ability to construct an innings makes him invaluable in pressure situations. Williamson’s composure and decision-making ensure he rarely looks flustered, even in the tensest moments.

If you need someone to soak up pressure and steer the ship, he’s your man. You can’t help but think that Williamson is a somewhat under-appreciated cricketer – if he played for a higher profile team (think India, Australia or England), he would be a much bigger icon.

4. Joe Root (England)

• Test average: 51.29
• ODI average: 49.14
• T20I average: 35.72

Root’s batting is built on class, technique and adaptability. His Test record puts him among England’s greatest ever, capable of batting for days against high-quality attacks.

In ODIs, he’s the anchor in an otherwise aggressive England line-up, often playing the role of steadying influence while others go hard around him – although a strike-rate of 87.6 is scarcely pedestrian.

Although his T20I career hasn’t hit the same heights, Root’s versatility and cricketing brain suggest he could still be trusted in a high-pressure situation. If survival is the key, Root is as dependable as they come.

5. Shubman Gill (India)

• Test average: 41.35
• ODI average: 59.04
• T20I average: 30.42

Gill is the youngest name on this list, but his ODI numbers are already staggering. An average of almost 60 at the top of the order is a testament to his talent and hunger for runs.

In Tests, he has shown glimpses of his ability to succeed at the highest level, particularly in tough overseas conditions.

His performances in the recent series against England were simply incredible as he took on the mantle of captaincy for the first time and became his sides’ primary source of runs.

His T20I record isn’t as polished yet, but his ceiling is sky-high. If you’re looking for a player who can dominate world cricket for the next decade, Gill is the one you’d bet your life on.

6. Mohammad Rizwan (Pakistan)

• Test average: 40.58
• ODI average: 40.49
• T20I average: 47.41

Rizwan is perhaps the most underrated player on this list. His T20 record is outstanding, built on consistency and an unrelenting ability to adapt to different match situations.

In Tests and ODIs, he might not have the headline numbers of others here, but his fighting spirit and determination are unmatched. Rizwan has built a reputation for batting in pressure situations, especially when Pakistan needs someone to dig in and fight.

If you need resilience, grit and a refusal to back down, Rizwan is your guy. Kohli aside, Rizwan is the only player on this list whose average in all three formats remains above 40.

7. Faf du Plessis (South Africa)

• Test average: 40.02
• ODI average: 47.47
• T20I average: 35.53

Even though he no longer plays international cricket, Faf remains active in franchise leagues, and his quality is undeniable. His record across formats is strong, particularly in ODIs where he combined stability with attacking stroke play.

Faf’s greatest asset, however, is his mental toughness. He has built an entire career on standing firm under pressure, often producing his best when his team needed it most.

His 110 in the 2012 Test against Australia in Adelaide which came off 376 balls showed his incredible ability to adapt and play the situation. In a “bat for your life” scenario, Faf’s experience, grit and calmness could make the difference.

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9 successful SA20 bowlers who could be hot prospects for 2026 IPL

With the player auction for season four of the SA20 set to take place shortly, it’s time to take a quick look at which players have performed best with ball in hand in Africa’s premier franchise competition.

Wickets are obviously a hard to come by commodity in the shortest form of the game, and it comes as no surprise that only two players have taken more than 40 scalps since the start of the tournament.

Naturally the list is dominated by South African players, but it also features some outstanding international names.

Several of these names will be in the thinking of the six Indian Premier League franchises that also own teams in the SA20.

1. Marco Jansen: 47 SA20 wickets

• Average: 19.38
• Economy: 7.47
• Strike rate: 15.55

The leading wicket-taker in SA20 history, Marco Jansen has been central to the Sunrisers Eastern Cape’s success – they won the first two seasons of the competition.

His left-arm pace, steep bounce, and ability to swing the new ball have made him a nightmare for opening batsmen. What stands out most is his strike rate of 15.55, evidence that he regularly makes breakthroughs in crucial phases of the game.

He’s not simply a powerplay option either: Jansen has proved equally adept at taking wickets at the death, a rare combination for any seamer. His 47 wickets are comfortably the most in the competition and set the standard for those chasing him.

2. Ottneil Baartman: 41 SA20 wickets

• Average: 15.92
• Economy: 8.02
• Strike rate: 11.9

If Jansen brings height and bounce, Baartman has terrorised batters with his relentless accuracy and clever use of variations – he is a key component of a what has been an excellent bowling attack.

His record is remarkable – 41 wickets from only 24 innings at an average of under 16. No bowler in the SA20 has a better strike rate than Baartman’s 11.9, underlining his reputation as a genuine wicket-taking threat.

He has a knack for dismantling middle orders and ensuring that momentum is halted in its tracks. The Sunrisers’ ability to call on both Jansen and Baartman has been one of the major reasons for their dominance.

3. Kagiso Rabada: 32 SA20 wickets

• Average: 22.06
• Economy: 7.66
• Strike rate: 17.28

Kagiso Rabada remains the spearhead of South Africa’s attack in all formats, and in the SA20 his reputation is no different. With 32 wickets, he is comfortably the most prolific bowler for MI Cape Town, the winners of the third season.

Rabada’s pace and ability to bowl yorkers, seemingly at will make him a constant threat in the death overs, but his economy rate of 7.66 also shows how difficult he is to score off in the powerplay.

At times, he has carried his franchise’s pace attack almost single-handedly, although the arrival of Trent Boult for season three was a big boost.

Also read: Most wickets in T20 cricket – Shakib Al Hasan becomes 5th bowler to magnificent milestone

4. Bjorn Fortuin: 31 SA20 wickets

• Average: 26.87
• Economy: 6.69
• Strike rate: 24.09

Perhaps not the most glamorous name on the list, Bjorn Fortuin has quietly gone about his business and produced superb returns for the Paarl Royals – primarily on their slow-paced Boland Park wicket.

His economy rate of 6.69 is the best among those with 30 or more wickets, a testament to his consistency and discipline.

Though his strike rate suggests he takes wickets less frequently than some others, Fortuin’s value lies in his ability to squeeze runs and apply pressure – often allowing teammates to capitalise at the other end. In a format where control is rare, his reliability is gold dust.

5. Keshav Maharaj: 27 SA20 wickets

• Average: 27.03
• Economy: 7.30
• Strike rate: 22.22

Keshav Maharaj is best known for his achievements in Test cricket, but his role in the SA20 has been just as significant. As a left-arm spinner, he has shown remarkable control in a batsman-dominated competition.

His 27 wickets are the reward for a bowler who consistently keeps things tight – his economy rate of 7.30 underlines his ability to shut down scoring opportunities.

Maharaj’s leadership qualities also shine through, often entrusted with difficult overs when the game hangs in the balance.

6. Ethan Bosch: 27 SA20 wickets

• Average: 27.48
• Economy: 8.18
• Strike rate: 20.14

Ethan Bosch has emerged as a promising young seamer for the Pretoria Capitals, combining pace with an improving range of slower deliveries.

Though his average and economy are slightly higher than some of his peers, he has still managed to claim 27 wickets in 28 innings. His effectiveness has often come in the middle overs, where his short-of-a-length bowling forces mistakes from aggressive batters looking to accelerate.

Bosch is still a work in progress, but his development in the SA20 suggests he could be a mainstay for years to come.

7. Lungi Ngidi: 26 SA20 wickets

• Average: 29.26
• Economy: 8.84
• Strike rate: 19.84

Lungi Ngidi has built a reputation as a wicket-taker across formats, and his SA20 record shows the same trend. With 26 wickets in just 23 innings, he has proved a very useful strike bowler for the Paarl Royals.

While his economy rate of 8.84 is on the higher side, Ngidi often bowls in the toughest situations – at the death or during powerplays. His sharp bouncers and slower-ball variations make him unpredictable, and he remains a match-winner when conditions suit.

8. Noor Ahmad: 25 SA20 wickets

• Average: 14.56
• Economy: 6.46
• Strike rate: 13.52

The first foreign player on the list, Afghanistan’s teenage sensation Noor Ahmad has lit up the SA20 in breathtaking style. With only 15 innings under his belt, he has already taken 25 wickets – and boasts the best average (14.56) of any bowler on this list.

He was the leading wicket-taker in season three with his left-arm wrist spin, full of guile and variety flummoxing batters unaccustomed to his angles and pace. An economy rate of 6.46 in T20 cricket borders on astonishing.

If he continues at this rate, he could easily challenge Jansen and Baartman at the top of the wicket charts within the next couple of seasons.

9. Jimmy Neesham: 25 SA20 wickets

• Average: 19.96
• Economy: 8.36
• Strike rate: 14.32

Rounding out the list is New Zealand allrounder Jimmy Neesham, whose bowling has been quietly effective for the Pretoria Capitals. Often seen as a batting allrounder, Neesham’s seamers have provided crucial breakthroughs.

His 25 wickets in 22 innings, at a strike rate of 14.32, show that he can be relied upon to break partnerships. While his economy is slightly expensive at 8.36, his knack for timely wickets has balanced that out.

His presence also highlights the value of versatile overseas players in a competition that has blended international stardust with local talent.

Most wickets in SA20 – top 9 summary list

1. Marco Jansen: 47 wickets
2. Ottneil Baartman: 41 wickets
3. Kagiso Rabada: 32 wickets
4. Bjorn Fortuin: 31 wickets
5. Keshav Maharaj: 27 wickets
6. Ethan Bosch: 27 wickets
7. Lungi Ngidi: 26 wickets
8. Noor Ahmad: 25 wickets
9. Jimmy Neesham: 25 wickets

Read next: Did Chris Gayle get named in this West Indies’ best Test XI of the past 40 years?

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Ravichandran Ashwin retires from the IPL with these 7 influential tournament stats

Just a couple of weeks shy of his 39th birthday, veteran Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has called time on his IPL career, confirming that he won’t be back in 2026 for an 18th season.

It’s been a storied journey through IPL for the prolific off-spinner, who has turned out in the colours of Chennai Super Kings, Delhi Capitals, King XI Punjab, Rising Pune Supergiants and, most recently, for the Rajasthan Royals.

As Ashwin bows out from the game’s Premier franchise competition, let’s look at some of the records and milestones he leaves behind.

1. Seventh most IPL matches

Having made his IPL debut back in 2009, in the tournament’s second ever season, Ashwin has been around for a very long time.

The only players who have appeared in more games than his incredible 221 are players who debuted in 2008 and who, for the most part, are still playing.

Ahead of him on the list of most IPL games are the big names of MS Dhoni, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Dinesh Karthik, Ravi Jadeja and Shikhar Dhawan – that’s some elite company to be keeping.

2. Fifth most IPL wickets

With a massive 187 scalps to his credit there are very few bowlers who have taken more wickets than Ashwin.

Leg-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal is the runaway leader atop the list with 221 wickets (thus far he is the only bowler to go past 200 in the IPL), followed by Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Sunil Narine, Piyush Chawla and then Ashwin.

Given that he has played 17 seasons of IPL cricket, that means he is averaging a very impressive 11 wickets a season.

3. Most IPL wickets by Indian off-spinner

He has been India‘s premier off-spinner for almost two decades and as such it comes as no surprise to discover that Ashwin if the all-time leading local finger-spinner in the IPL.

The spinners ahead of him on the list are leggies, and while Sunil Narine is a traditional finger-spinner, he is West Indian.

Also read: Ravichandran Ashwin retires from IPL – where did he finish among top 11 IPL wicket-takers?

4. Second most IPL wickets without five-for

Despite his prolific numbers in the wicket-taking column, Ashwin went his whole career without a five-for. Surprisingly he only managed four wickets in an innings once, despite bowling in a massive 217 innings.

While Piyush Chawla, the bowler immediately ahead of him on the wicket-takers list also failed to grab a five-for, he has two four wicket hauls to his name.

5. Joint 61st on list of most wickets in a season

It is one thing to perform well in a game or two, but Ashwin has been consistently top-class for 17. His best season was in 2011, when he was playing for Chennai Super Kings.

That season saw him bag an outstanding 20 wickets as CSK went all the way to the title, beating RCB in the final.

Ashwin was one of the star performers for CSK in that final as he opened the bowling and took the first two wickets to fall (including 2011’s Player of the Season Chris Gayle for a duck) in returning figures of three for 16 in his four overs.

6. 43rd best economy rate in IPL history

Over his outstanding career Ashwin hasn’t just been a wicket-taker, he has also been a key attacking instrument for his team by always keeping things tight and allowing other players to pick up wickets as opponents looked to force the pace at the other end.

He boasts the 43rd best economy rate of all bowlers in the IPL, a fantastic achievement. His 7.2 runs per over means he was able to keep it tight for 17 seasons – a genuine achievement.

7. Not just a bowler

As much as Ashwin will be remembered as one of the greatest IPL bowlers of all time, he was more than just a tweaker, he made valuable contributions across the park. His highest IPL was 50 and he bagged 52 catches across his career.

While there are players who have represented more IPL teams than him (Australia‘s Aaron Finch played for nine), Ashwin also sprinkled his magic widely across the IPL, turning out for a total of five different sides.

Read next: Listed – Every Indian Premier League century since 2017; record number of tons in 2024

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Can Kusal Mendis be considered among Sri Lanka’s ODI batting greats?

Zimbabwe have been very active in recent months, upping the amount of cricket that they play significantly as they look to prepare themselves for the 2027 World Cup of which they will be co-hosts.

Fresh from a trip to England and a tri-series involving South Africa and New Zealand, the men from Harare will now face Sri Lanka in a two-match ODI series and a three-game T20I encounter.

The games will serve as good preparation for Sri Lanka as they ready themselves for the upcoming Asia Cup.

With Sri Lanka having named their squad to face the lowly Zimbabweans in ODI cricket, let’s take a moment to see which Sri Lankan players have scored the most runs for the former world champions.

It’s a list with some very big names on it, although none of the current squad is amongst the top seven.

1. Kumar Sangakkara: 13,975 ODI runs

• ODI career span: 2000-2015
• ODIs played: 397

No surprises here. Kumar Sangakkara is not only Sri Lanka’s leading ODI run-scorer but also one of the finest one-day batsmen the game has ever seen.

Blessed with impeccable timing, the ability to anchor an innings, and the nous to accelerate when required, Sangakkara combined class with consistency.

His tally of nearly 14,000 runs places him second only to Sachin Tendulkar in the all-time list worldwide.

What set him apart was his remarkable adaptability, as fluent against pace as he was against spin, and equally effective in Asia, Australia or England. His contributions behind the stumps only added to his immense value.

2. Sanath Jayasuriya: 13,364 ODI runs

• ODI career span: 1989-2011
• ODIs played: 441

If Sangakkara was Sri Lanka’s artist, Sanath Jayasuriya was their destroyer. The man who redefined opening batting in ODIs, Jayasuriya brought sheer aggression to the top of the order, often deciding matches in the first 15 overs.

His strike rate of 91.25 is extraordinary considering much of his career came in an era when 250 was viewed as a strong total. Beyond his batting, Jayasuriya offered left-arm spin and sharp fielding, making him one of the most influential all-rounders of his generation.

Few players embodied Sri Lanka’s fearless style of cricket in the 1990s and early 2000s quite like him. His opening partnership with Romesh Kaluwitharana was a key element in their 1996 World Cup win.

3. Mahela Jayawardene: 12,381 ODI runs

• ODI career span: 1998-2015
• ODIs played: 443

A master of placement and an expert reader of the game, Mahela Jayawardene was the perfect foil to both Sangakkara and Jayasuriya. His silky cover drives and ability to find gaps made him one of the most aesthetically pleasing batsmen of his era.

Jayawardene also thrived under pressure, with several of his best knocks coming in ICC tournaments. His leadership qualities, both as captain and as a guiding presence in the dressing room, were equally significant.

With Sangakkara, he formed one of the most prolific partnerships in ODI cricket.

Also read: Kane Williamson over Ross Taylor – and no Stephen Fleming? Selecting New Zealand’s best Test XI since 1985

4. Tillakaratne Dilshan: 10,290 ODI runs

• ODI career span: 1999-2016
• ODIs played: 330

Dilshan epitomised innovation. Few batsmen have left a shot named after them, but the “Dilscoop” became a global sensation. More than a novelty, it symbolised his fearlessness at the crease.

His career blossomed in his thirties, when he was promoted to open the batting and churned out runs at a rapid pace.

Averaging just under 40 with a healthy strike rate of 86, Dilshan was capable of both brutal hitting and patient accumulation. His off-spin, electric fielding and relentless energy made him an invaluable asset throughout the 2000s and 2010s.

5. Aravinda de Silva: 9,284 ODI runs

• ODI career span: 1984-2003
• ODIs played: 308

The architect of Sri Lanka’s 1996 World Cup triumph, Aravinda de Silva was the country’s original batting superstar.

His elegance at the crease was matched by an ability to deliver in the biggest moments – his match-winning hundred in the World Cup final against Australia remains etched in cricketing folklore.

Though he played in an era of lower scoring, his strike rate of over 80 underlines his attacking instincts. De Silva bridged generations, inspiring the likes of Jayasuriya and Sangakkara while laying the foundations for Sri Lanka’s golden age.

6. Marvan Atapattu: 8,529 ODI runs

• ODI career span: 1990-2007
• ODIs played: 268

Atapattu’s career is a tale of resilience. Famously dismissed for a sequence of ducks at the start of his Test career, he fought back to establish himself as one of Sri Lanka’s most dependable ODI openers.

While not as flamboyant as Jayasuriya or Dilshan, Atapattu brought calm assurance to the top order, grinding out runs and providing stability.

His average of 37.57 reflects his consistency, though his strike rate shows he was a player of a different era, more focused on occupying the crease than explosive scoring.

7. Arjuna Ranatunga: 7,456 ODI runs

• ODI career span: 1982-1999
• ODIs played: 269

No list of Sri Lankan cricket greats is complete without the mention of Arjuna Ranatunga, the captain who transformed the team from outsiders to world champions.

With the bat, he was a busy middle-order presence, nudging, nurdling and manipulating the field to keep the scoreboard ticking. His average of nearly 36 in ODIs is highly respectable, but it was his leadership that left the deepest mark.

Ranatunga instilled belief, fearlessness and unity in a side that conquered the cricketing world in the mid-1990s.

11. Kusal Mendis: 4,654 ODI runs

• ODI career span: 2016-2025
• ODIs played: 146

While not yet among the top seven, Kusal Mendis is the leading ODI run scorer among Sri Lanka’s current crop.

Currently sitting at 11 on the all-time list Mendis is unlikely to move higher on the tour to Zimbabwe, but there is still plenty of time for him to advance his numbers.

His career so far has been marked by flashes of brilliance and frustrating inconsistency. A fluent stroke-maker with the ability to dominate spin and pace alike, Mendis has often carried the batting in a transitional era for Sri Lankan cricket.

With a strike rate of nearly 90, he plays at a tempo suited to modern one-day cricket, and with more stability around him, he has the potential to climb further up this list in years to come.

Most ODI runs for Sri Lanka – top 7 summary list

1. Kumar Sangakkara: 13,975 ODI runs
2. Sanath Jayasuriya: 13,364 ODI runs
3. Mahela Jayawardene: 12,381 ODI runs
4. Tillakaratne Dilshan: 10,290 ODI runs
5. Aravinda de Silva: 9,284 ODI runs
6. Marvan Atapattu: 8,529 ODI runs
7. Arjuna Ranatunga: 7,456 ODI runs

Read next: Did Chris Gayle get named in this West Indies’ best Test XI of the past 40 years?

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Ravichandran Ashwin retires from IPL – where did he finish among top 11 IPL wicket-takers?

Who has taken the most wickets in the history of the Indian Premier League?

The tournament has been played since 2008, producing several top wicket-takers.

Read on to find out more about the highest wicket-takers in the IPL, including Ravichandran Ashwin’s movement up the list before his retirement from the tournament.

1. Yuzvendra Chahal – 221 IPL wickets

• IPL career: 2013-2025
• Best IPL bowling figures: 5/40

Yuzvendra Chahal has taken the most wickets in the history of the Indian Premier League. He is now playing for the Punjab Kings, having played for the Rajasthan Royals, Royal Challengers Bangalore and Mumbai Indians previously.

Chahal is the only player in the tournament to have taken more than 200 wickets, but Kumar, Narine and a few others will likely join him in this elite club during the 2026 IPL.

2. Bhuvneshwar Kumar – 198 IPL wickets

• IPL career: 2011-2025
• Best IPL bowling figures: 5/19

Bhuvneshwar has taken the second most wickets in the history of the Indian Premier League. Kumar is the most prolific local seamer in the history of the IPL.

He is renowned for his nagging line and length and pinpoint accuracy – and in 2025 was with the Royal Challengers Bangalore for their first ever IPL title victory.

3. Sunil Narine – 192 IPL wickets

• IPL career: 2012-2025
• Best IPL bowling figures: 5/19

Sunil Narine has taken the third most wickets in the history of the Indian Premier League. Narine has scored a lot of runs for Kolkata, too, and can be recorded as one of the best overseas all-rounders in the tournament.

Narine is a global superstar when it comes to participation in other T20 leagues around the world and, in 2025, will make his debut appearance in the SA20.

4. Piyush Chawla – 192 IPL wickets

• IPL career: 2008-2024
• Best IPL bowling figures: 4/17

Piyush Chawla has taken the fourth most wickets in the history of the Indian Premier League. Chawla did not play in the 2025 IPL, and might not get a chance to reach 200.

At 36 years old, Chawla’s professional career is likely nearing its end. That said, leg-spinners such as Imran Tahir have been known to extend their careers into their 40s.

Also read: Listed – Every Indian Premier League century since 2017; record number of tons in 2024

5. Ravichandran Ashwin – 187 IPL wickets

• IPL career: 2009-2025
• Best IPL bowling figures: 4/34

Ravichandran Ashwin took the fifth most wickets in the history of the Indian Premier League. Ashwin retired from IPL cricket in August 2025.

When announcing his retirement from the IPL, Ashwin hinted at his ambition to feature in other T20 leagues around the world. With out a Board of Control for Cricket in India contract, he will be allowed to do this.

6. Jasprit Bumrah – 183 IPL wickets

• IPL career: 2013-2025
• Best IPL bowling figures: 5/10

Jasprit Bumrah has taken the sixth most wickets in the history of the Indian Premier League. He made a late start to the 2025 IPL due to injury but caught up quickly enough.

Bumrah is one of a select number of bowlers to occupy top spot across all three format in the International Cricket Council’s rankings. This is a good reminder of his hot talent in T20 cricket.

7. Dwayne Bravo – 183 IPL wickets

• IPL career: 2008-2022
• Best IPL bowling figures: 4/22

Dwayne Bravo took the seventh most wickets in the history of the Indian Premier League. Bravo is the most prolific overseas seamer in IPL history.

The animated former all-rounder from the West Indies is now a mentor in the IPL and, in August 2025, was named head coach of the Trinbago Knight Riders in the Caribbean Premier League.

8. Amit Mishra – 174 IPL wickets

• IPL career: 2008-2024
• Best IPL bowling figures: 5/17

Amit Mishra has taken the eighth most wickets in the history of the Indian Premier League. He is one of three leg-spinners among the top eight wicket-takers in the history of the IPL.

While contemporaries such as Rashid Khan, Yuzvendra Chahal and others have since clinched popularity ahead of him, Mishra will be remembered as one of the founding leg-spinners of the IPL.

9. Ravindra Jadeja – 170 IPL wickets

• IPL career: 2009-2019
• Best IPL bowling figures: 5/13

Ravindra Jadeja has taken the ninth most wickets in the history of the Indian Premier League. He has been a mainstay for the Chennai Super Kings for an extended period.

Like Narine and Bravo, it’s well worth keeping in mind that Jadeja has coupled his success with the ball with a lot of success with the bat as one of the top all-rounders in the tournament.

10. Lasith Malinga – 170 IPL wickets

• IPL career: 2008-2025
• Best IPL bowling figures: 5/16

Lasith Malinga took the 10th most wickets in the history of the Indian Premier League. The former Sri Lanka fast bowler took six four-fors and one five-wicket haul in the IPL.

Fans and critics alike won’t soon forget his toe-cracking yorkers and lethal place and, of course, that slingy action of his. ‘Slinga Malinga’ remains actively involved in the IPL on a coaching and mentoring front.

11. Rashid Khan – 158 IPL wickets

• IPL career: 2017-2025
• Best IPL bowling figures: 4/24

The Afghanistan leg-spinner’s IPL career has spanned eight years and he has only played for two franchises – Sunrisers Hyderabad and Gujarat Titans.

Khan has also captained teams in the IPL and his leadership qualities are showcased in the SA20 as well. He is captain of MI Cape Town in South Africa.

Most wickets in IPL –  top 11 summary list

1. Yuzvendra Chahal – 221 IPL wickets
2. Bhuvneshwar Kumar – 198 IPL wickets
3. Sunil Narine – 192 IPL wickets
4. Piyush Chawla – 192 IPL wickets
5. Ravichandran Ashwin – 187 IPL wickets
6. Jasprit Bumrah – 183 IPL wickets
7. Dwayne Bravo – 183 IPL wickets
8. Amit Mishra – 174 IPL wickets
9. Ravindra Jadeja – 170 IPL wickets
10. Lasith Malinga – 170 IPL wickets
11. Rashid Khan – 158 IPL wickets

Read next: Full list of current captains in Indian Premier League

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Ranked: India’s 11 most prolific run-scorers in T20I history

India are set to head to the Asia Cup in Sharjah as the defending champions.

They are also the reigning T20I World Champions and the number one side on the ICC rankings. They are, without doubt, a powerful force in the shortest form of the game.

But having said that, a number of their highest run scorers in T20Is are no longer playing outside of the franchise circuit.

How and where does that leave them? Let’s look at the list of India’s leading run-scorers in T20I cricket as they head towards the Asia Cup.

1. Rohit Sharma: 4,231 T20I runs

• Innings: 151
• Highest score: 121 not out

Now retired from T20I Rohit Sharma remains India’s all-time leading run scorer in T20Is, an achievement that cements his status as one of the format’s true greats.

With four centuries, the most by any player in T20I history, his ability to dominate attacks at the top of the order is unmatched. Rohit’s career was defined by both its longevity and consistency, with his penchant for big-match performances making him indispensable.

Following his international retirement his focus has shifted to the IPL and franchise cricket meaning India need to find successors capable of delivering his mix of explosiveness and leadership.

His record-setting strike rate and ability to accelerate after a cautious start are qualities India will sorely miss.

2. Virat Kohli: 4,188 T20I runs

• Innings: 117
• Highest score: 122 not out

If Rohit Sharma was India’s power hitter, Virat Kohli was their master chaser.

Another recent retiree, Kohli boasts an astonishing average of 48.69. His ability to anchor innings while maintaining a strong strike rate made him the backbone of India’s T20I side for over a decade.

His unbeaten 82 against Pakistan at the 2022 T20 World Cup remains one of the format’s defining innings.

For an Indian team that once leaned heavily on his reliability, the next generation must now shoulder the responsibility of finishing games – something Kohli did with unnerving regularity.

3. Suryakumar Yadav: 2,598 T20I runs

• Innings: 79
• Highest score: 117

Suryakumar Yadav represents the present and future of India’s T20 batting. The current skipper of the T20I side, Yadav will lead the team at the Asia Cup. With his outrageous 360-degree stroke play, ‘SKY’ has become one of the most feared middle-order batters in the world.

His strike rate of 167.07 is a testament to his aggression, and he is often compared to AB de Villiers for his ability to innovate and dismantle bowling attacks.

What sets Suryakumar apart is his adaptability: he can steady the innings if required or shift gears instantly.

For India, he is not just a replacement for the retiring stalwarts but the central figure around whom the batting unit is being built. If India are to dominate for another decade, ‘SKY’s’ role will be pivotal.

4. KL Rahul: 2,265 T20I runs

• Innings: 68
• Highest score: 110 not out

Stylish, consistent, and technically gifted, KL Rahul has long been a fixture in India’s T20I side. His ability to open the innings or slot into the middle order has made him a versatile option.

With two centuries and multiple fifties, Rahul often provided stability when the top order faltered.

That said, his strike rate has sometimes come under scrutiny, particularly in the IPL, where he has been accused of being too cautious. Injuries have also disrupted his rhythm in recent years.

Whether he can re-establish himself as a guaranteed starter in India’s T20I setup remains to be seen, especially with younger challengers pushing for spots.

Also read: Kane Williamson over Ross Taylor – and no Stephen Fleming? Selecting New Zealand’s best Test XI since 1985

5. Hardik Pandya: 1,812 T20I runs

• Innings: 90
• Highest score: 71 not out

As an all-rounder, Hardik Pandya’s value extends far beyond his batting numbers. But his contribution with the bat has been critical, particularly in finishing roles.

Known for his fearless hitting in the death overs, Pandya’s strike rate of 141.67 reflects his ability to seemingly clear boundaries at will.

Hardik has also been touted as a future captain in the T20I format, given his leadership experience in the IPL. India will hope he can remain fit, as his balance of big hitting and handy seam bowling makes him irreplaceable in white-ball cricket.

6. Shikhar Dhawan: 1,759 T20I runs

• Innings: 66
• Highest score: 92

Shikhar Dhawan was once India’s first-choice opener across formats, but in T20Is he often played second fiddle to Rohit Sharma.

His ability to play the anchoring role while allowing his partner to attack was invaluable, though his relatively modest strike rate limited his long-term presence in the T20I setup.

Now retired from international cricket, Dhawan’s T20I days are behind him. Still, his contribution during India’s formative years in the format deserves recognition, as he was part of the side that built the foundation for their current dominance.

7. MS Dhoni: 1,617 T20I runs

• Innings: 85
• Highest score: 56

MS Dhoni’s T20I numbers may not appear extraordinary, but statistics alone don’t capture his impact. The former captain was India’s finisher-in-chief, often turning hopeless situations into victories with his calm under pressure.

His leadership was arguably his greatest asset, guiding India to the inaugural T20I World Cup in 2007.

Dhoni’s strike rate reflects a different era of T20 cricket, when targets were lower and teams relied more on anchoring. Nevertheless, his legacy as a T20I pioneer remains unmatched, and his presence in the list underscores his importance to India’s white-ball story.

8. Suresh Raina: 1,605 T20I runs

• Innings: 66
• Highest score: 101

Suresh Raina was India’s first-ever T20I centurion, and his aggressive middle-order batting made him a trailblazer in the format. Left-handed, fearless, and an exceptional fielder, Raina epitomised the modern T20 cricketer long before the IPL popularised the role.

Though his career ended prematurely at international level, Raina’s contribution remains vital. His ability to accelerate the innings and play match-winning knocks laid the groundwork for India’s later batting superstars.

9. Rishabh Pant: 1,209 T20I runs

• Innings: 66
• Highest score: 65 not out

Rishabh Pant’s T20I record does not quite reflect his immense talent. While he has produced flashes of brilliance, his inconsistency and relatively modest average suggest he has yet to fully master the international T20I format.

Despite this Pant is feared by bowlers as his fearless batting and explosive ability make him a valuable asset and a game-changer. If he finds form, India could have a dynamic wicketkeeper-batter capable of changing games in a handful of overs.

Pant has not been included in the side for the Asia Cup.

10. Yuvraj Singh: 1,177 T20I runs

• Innings: 51
• Highest score: 77 not out

Few players have had a bigger impact on India’s T20I history than Yuvraj Singh. His six sixes in an over against Stuart Broad at the 2007 World Cup remain iconic, while his fearless hitting underlined India’s attacking identity in the format.

Although his career stats are modest compared to modern batters, Yuvraj’s ability to change games in minutes made him invaluable. He was a big-match player whose influence extended well beyond the numbers, inspiring a generation of aggressive stroke-makers.

11. Shreyas Iyer: 1,104 T20I runs

• Innings: 47
• Highest score: 74 not out

Rounding out the top 11 is Shreyas Iyer, a player who in many ways is still carving his space in India’s T20I hierarchy.

With over a thousand runs at a healthy strike rate, Iyer has shown glimpses of his class in the middle order. His ability to handle spin and rotate strike makes him an asset on subcontinental pitches.

However, injuries and competition for places have limited his opportunities.

If he can string together consistent performances, Iyer could yet become a long-term fixture, especially as India looks to phase out some of their senior players, although at 30-years-old his time may already have come and gone.

Most T20I runs for India – top 11 summary list

1. Rohit Sharma: 4,231 T20I runs
2. Virat Kohli: 4,188 T20I runs
3. Suryakumar Yadav: 2,598 T20I runs
4. KL Rahul: 2,265 T20I runs
5. Hardik Pandya: 1,812 T20I runs
6. Shikhar Dhawan: 1,759 T20I runs
7. MS Dhoni: 1,617 T20I runs
8. Suresh Raina: 1,605 T20I runs
9. Rishabh Pant: 1,209 T20I runs
10. Yuvraj Singh: 1,177 T20I runs
11. Shreyas Iyer: 1,104 T20I runs

Read next: Did Chris Gayle get named in this West Indies’ best Test XI of the past 40 years?

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Australia romp to the 9th highest ODI total ever – but one country owns the top 3 positions

Which teams have hit the highest innings totals in ODIs?

Get the most accurate information about the highest innings totals in ODI cricket.

Read on for more about the biggest ODI totals.

1. England: 498/4

• vs Netherlands, Amstelveen, 2022

This is the highest team total in the history of ODI cricket.

2. England: 481/6

• vs Australia, Nottingham, 2018

This is the highest total in ODIs in the United Kingdom.

3. England: 444/3

• vs Pakistan, Nottingham, 2016

Trent Bridge has the second and third highest totals in ODI cricket.

Also read: Where does Cameron Green’s Mackay mayhem rank among 11 fastest ODI centuries?

4. Sri Lanka: 443/9

• vs Netherlands, Amstelveen, 2006

The Dutch have been on the wrong end of two of the top four highest team totals in ODIs.

5. South Africa: 439/2

• vs West Indies, Johannesburg, 2015

This is the biggest ODI total in Africa.

6. South Africa: 438/9

• vs Australia, Johannesburg, 2006

The Wanderers has been a prolific venue in ODIs for the Proteas.

7. South Africa: 438/4

• vs India, Mumbai, 2015

This is the highest ODI total in India.

8. Australia: 434/4

• vs South Africa, Johannesburg, 2006

This remains Australia’s highest ODI total.

9. Australia: 431/2

• vs South Africa, Mackay, 2025

This is the highest ODI total in Australia.

10. South Africa: 428/5

• vs Sri Lanka, Delhi, 2023

This is the highest ODI team score Sri Lanka have conceded.

Highest team totals in ODIs – top 10 summary list

1. England: 498/4
2. England: 481/6
3. England: 444/3
4. Sri Lanka: 443/9
5. South Africa: 439/2
6. South Africa: 438/9
7. South Africa: 438/4
8. Australia: 434/4
9. Australia: 431/2
10. South Africa: 428/5

Read next: Ranked – The 7 bowlers who reached 50 wickets in T20I cricket the fastest

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Largest margin of victory by runs in ODIs

What are the largest margins of victory by runs in ODIs?

We have the best and most accurate information about the largest victory margins by runs in ODI cricket.

Read on for more about the biggest wins for the team bowling second in ODIs.

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7 big-hitting batters who wasted no time at all in hitting the fastest Test centuries

There is more than one way to play Test cricket.

Batters can approach it cautiously and protective of their wickets, or they could throw caution to the wind and launch an all-out assault.

Below, we look at the batters who did the latter and reached 100 runs at a brisk pace.

1. Brendon McCullum

• New Zealand
• 54 balls

Let’s be clear, 32/3 is early for a number five batter to walk in. The ball will still be shiny and swinging around. Often, number fives adopt the Chanderpaul approach: dig in and try to bat time.

That’s not what McCullum did against Australia in Christchurch in February 2016.

He dotted on the first ball he faced, just to get a feeling of the ball and the surface, and then drilled a four on the second.

That was the beginning of a wild ride. McCullum launched three sixes and smashed six fours to reach 50 in 34 balls. He needed another 20 balls to reach his century.

2. Viv Richards

• West Indies
• 56 balls

When David Gower sat before the press after England had sunk to a 240-run loss to the West Indies in April 1986, he uttered 10 words: “The ship has sunk and is lying 20 fathoms deep.”

Part of the season for that was because of a torpedo named Isaac Vivian Alexander Richards.

Richards walked out to bat 28 minutes before tea. He faced 11 deliveries and scored 28 runs from them: two sixes, a four, ran a three, added a couple of twos, and nudged the ball for five singles.

Those initial 11 deliveries determined how the great West Indian batter was going to approach the innings.

After tea, Richards escalated matters as he raced to a 35-ball half-century. According to John Embury, one of the bowlers decimated by Richards in April 1986, the West Indies’ star found a new gear after passing the 50-run mark.

He speared a six into a rum bottle in the stands and launched one ball into a nearby prison. Apparently, it’s the same prison where Malcolm Richards, Viv Richards’ father, once worked.

Richards did not face a single dot ball in his stay at the crease.

3. Misbah-ul-Haq

• Pakistan
• 56 balls

One of the drink carriers whispered to Misbah when he was on 80 off 45 balls that the fastest hundred had been scored in 56 deliveries.

A message like that can have one of three effects: send the batter into a panic so much that they deviate from their normal approach, get them overexcited over the prospect of being a record-holder, or what Misbah did. He continued as if he hadn’t heard it.

The result was that he matched Richards’ record. He sent five sixes over the ropes and thrashed 11 fours on his way to an unbeaten 101. It was his second 101 in the match.

Also read: Kane Williamson over Ross Taylor – and no Stephen Fleming? Selecting New Zealand’s best Test XI since 1985

4. Adam Gilchrist

• Australia
• 57 balls

Adam Gilchrist and Monty Panesar had a one-on-one battle going while Australia and England were battling for the Ashes urn in 2006.

In the first innings, Gilchrist walked out to bat during a Panesar over, faced three deliveries, and was out on the fourth for a four-ball duck. As fate would have it, Panesar was bowling when he walked out to bat in the second innings.

Gilchrist wielded his bat like a sword as he flayed the spinner left, right, and centre.

He creamed three sixes and four fours on his way to 40 runs from the 17 balls against Panesar. Andrew Flintoff, the England captain for that series, saved Panesar from further mauling when he yanked him out of the bowling attack after a 24-run over at Gilchrist’s hands.

5. Jack Gregory

• Australia
• 67 balls

Gregory had a productive year in 1921. The Australian featured in 15 innings against England at home, then toured England, before closing the year with a series in South Africa.

He scored 665 runs at an average of 51.2. Gregory’s highest score came against South Africa in Johannesburg.

Gregory, who batted in every position from one to nine in the 34 innings he batted for Australia, walked out to bat at number four and launched a blitz.

He raced to a 67-ball century during his brilliant 209-run third-wicket partnership with Herbie Collins. While his 119 was his only century for Australia, it wasn’t his best. Taylor was dropped three times on his way to the milestone.

His 67-ball 100 was a record that stood for 65 years.

6. Shivnarine Chanderpaul

• West Indies
• 69 balls

In 2003, Australia and West Indies came into the Test series on the back of three months of ODIs. So, maybe that was the reason why Chanderpaul broke character in the first Test.

The middle order batter, dispensed of his grinding approach to red-ball cricket and transformed into prime Chris Gayle as he scythed Australia’s bowling attack.

He swung at everything as he raced to a 69-ball century. His swashbuckling approach saved an injured Ridley Jacobs from having to run numerous singles on one leg. The pair added 131 runs for the sixth wicket.

7. David Warner

• Australia
• 69 balls

One of the most destructive Indian batters, Virender Sehwag, must have seen a shades of himself in David Warner. So, in 2009, he sat the then-young Australia star down for a serious chat.

He told Warner that he would make an outstanding Test batter. Warner didn’t believe it at first, but Sehwag pressed on.

Three years later, Sehwag watched from up-close as Warner tore apart India’s bowling attack on his way to a 69-ball Test century. Warner clubbed 13 fours and three towering sixes, including one over long-on to bring up his century.

The left-hander did all this in a single session. He walked out to bat after tea and was unbeaten, with a century, at stumps.

Fastest Test centuries – top 7 summary list

1. Brendon McCullum: 54 balls
2. Viv Richards: 56 balls
3. Misbah-ul-Haq: 56 balls
4. Adam Gilchrist: 57 balls
5. Jack Gregory: 67 balls
6. Shivnarine Chanderpaul: 69 balls
7. David Warner: 69 balls

Read next: Did Chris Gayle get named in this West Indies’ best Test XI of the past 40 years?

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Ranked: The 7 bowlers who reached 50 wickets in T20I cricket the fastest

Anyone who knows their cricket will know that wickets in T20I cricket are a significantly rarer commodity than runs.

A batsman theoretically has 20 overs in which to amass as much as possible. A bowler has just four overs in which to do his work.

As a result, bowler milestones can take a longer to be reached than batting milestones.

But as increasingly more T20I cricket is being played so more records are being broken and more milestones being reached.

What is also notable is that with associate nations playing plenty of T20 cricket, they are starting to dominate some of the records.

As we take a moment to look at the fastest bowlers to 50 T20I wickets, the list is surprisingly loaded with players from associate nations.

1. Dhruvkumar Maisuria (Botswana): 22 T20Is to 50 wickets

• Span: 21 May 2019 to 29 May 2023

No one has reached the 50-wicket milestone quicker than Botswana’s Dhruvkumar Maisuria. A wily leg-spinner, Maisuria has been at the centre of Botswana’s T20I bowling unit since their entry into international cricket.

To get there in just 22 matches underlines his remarkable consistency – he almost always finds a way to strike in his four-over allocation and currently boasts a strike-rate of 10.6 – the best T20I strike-rate in the world.

What stands out is not just the frequency of wickets but also his control, often operating as a banker in the middle overs.

His achievement speaks volumes about the growing competitiveness of some African associate nations. Maisuria’s wickets have come against sides like Malawi, Sierra Leone, Eswatini and Uganda.

2. Syazrul Idrus (Malaysia): 25 T20Is to 50 wickets

• Span: 1 October 2019 to 30 July 2023

Malaysia has quietly developed a reputation as a dangerous T20I side, and much of that owes to the spearheading role of seamer Syazrul Idrus. Reaching 50 wickets in only 25 matches,

Idrus became the first man to take a seven-wicket haul in T20 internationals – a staggering 7 for 8 against China in 2023. He bowls with discipline up front and at the death, giving Malaysia the kind of strike weapon that allows them to punch above their weight.

His rapid march to 50 illustrates the effect an incisive seamer can have even in the shortest format.

3. Ajantha Mendis (Sri Lanka): 26 T20Is to 50 wickets

• Span: 10 October 2008 to 4 October 2012

The only name from a full-member nation in the top three, Ajantha Mendis was a phenomenon when he burst onto the scene. His “mystery spin” made him almost unplayable in the early 2010s.

That he got to 50 wickets in just 26 games during an era when T20I cricket was still developing tells you everything about his impact for Sri Lanka.

Mendis held the record for the best bowling figures in T20Is – 6 for 8 against Zimbabwe in 2012 – and his variations paved the way for a generation of spinners who thrived in the format.

4. Mark Adair (Ireland): 28 T20Is to 50 wickets

• Span: 12 July 2019 to 20 October 2021

Ireland’s rise in limited-overs cricket has owed much to their bowling attack, and Mark Adair has been at its forefront.

A bustling seamer who can swing the new ball and deliver tight overs at the end, Adair needed only 28 matches to reach 50 wickets.

His knack of dismissing top-order batsmen early gives Ireland vital breakthroughs, and his strike rate remains among the best for bowlers with more than 50 T20I wickets.

In a format dominated by big hitting, Adair’s aggression and willingness to attack have been central to Ireland’s competitiveness.

Also read: Kane Williamson over Ross Taylor – and no Stephen Fleming? Selecting New Zealand’s best Test XI since 1985

5. Alpesh Ramjani (Uganda): 28 T20Is to 50 wickets

• Span: 15 September 2022 to 27 November 2023

Uganda have emerged as one of Africa’s fastest-growing cricketing nations and left-arm spinner Alpesh Ramjani has been a revelation. To hit the 50-wicket mark in just 28 games, and in little over a year, reflects his meteoric rise.

Ramjani combines sharp turn with clever changes of pace, making him especially dangerous on slower pitches.

He was a key figure in Uganda’s successful qualification campaign for the 2024 T20 World Cup, where his consistency with the ball provided control and penetration in equal measure.

6. Hernán Fennell (Argentina): 28 T20Is to 50 wickets

• Span: 3 October 2019 to 16 December 2024

Cricket may not be the first sport associated with Argentina, but Hernán Fennell has given them genuine recognition in the T20I landscape. A right-arm seamer, he brings intensity and accuracy, and his 50 wickets came in 28 games spread across five years.

Fennell has been instrumental in Argentina’s regional success in the Americas, regularly leading the attack with disciplined spells.

His name alongside global stars on this list demonstrates how T20I cricket has opened doors for nations far beyond the traditional powers. Fennell boasts a T20I strike rate of 11.3 (the third best in T20I cricket).

7. Sandeep Lamichhane (Nepal): 29 T20Is to 50 wickets

• Span: 31 May 2018 to 14 February 2022

One of the most recognisable associate cricketers in the world, Nepal’s Sandeep Lamichhane is already a household name thanks to his franchise cricket exploits – where amongst others he has been on the books of Hobart Hurricanes, Delhi Capitals and Lahore Qalandars.

In T20Is he was quick to make an impression, reaching 50 wickets in just 29 games. His googly, flight, and variations have made him the backbone of Nepal’s bowling attack.

Beyond the numbers, Lamichhane’s presence has lifted Nepalese cricket into the spotlight, inspiring a new generation of players in a country where the game enjoys cult popularity. His milestone achievement is as symbolic as it is statistical.

Fastest to 50 T20I wickets – top 7 summary list

1. Dhruvkumar Maisuria (Botswana): 22 T20Is to 50 wickets
2. Syazrul Idrus (Malaysia): 25 T20Is to 50 wickets
3. Ajantha Mendis (Sri Lanka): 26 T20Is to 50 wickets
4. Mark Adair (Ireland): 28 T20Is to 50 wickets
5. Alpesh Ramjani (Uganda): 28 T20Is to 50 wickets
6. Hernán Fennell (Argentina): 28 T20Is to 50 wickets
7. Sandeep Lamichhane (Nepal): 29 T20Is to 50 wickets

Read next: Did Chris Gayle get named in this West Indies’ best Test XI of the past 40 years?

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The 9 big-ticket batters who reached 9,000 runs in ODIs the fastest

While the record for the most runs scored in ODI cricket is Sachin Tendulkar’s 18,426, the reality is that 9,000 runs is the mark that distinguishes the truly elite from the very good.

In the history of ODI cricket only 20 players have reached the milestone and a quick look at the names indicates elite company. Reaching 9,000 ODI runs isn’t just about longevity – it’s also about sustained quality.

Let’s take a moment to look at the nine fastest batsmen to reach the milestone – it really does read like a who’s-who of the modern game.

1. Virat Kohli (India): 194 innings to 9,000 ODI runs

• Span: 18 August 2008 to 29 October 2017

No one embodies ODI consistency quite like Virat Kohli. He stormed to 9000 runs in just 194 innings, obliterating previous records and setting a new gold standard for run-scoring.

Kohli’s ability to chase down totals with nerveless precision earned him the moniker “The Chase Master.” At his peak, it often felt inevitable that he would score a century whenever India were faced with a target.

His combination of classical technique and modern aggression made him the defining batsman of the format in the 21st century. To reach 9000 inside a decade is a staggering achievement, and his fitness and hunger kept him producing at the highest level long after.

2. AB de Villiers (South Africa): 205 innings to 9,000 ODI runs

Span: 2 February 2005 to 25 February 2017

Known simply as ‘Mr 360,’ AB de Villiers changed the way people thought about batting in one-day cricket. He reached 9000 runs in 205 innings, mixing audacity with sheer class.

While his reputation was built on outrageous stroke-play: scoops over fine leg and ramp shots over the keeper’s head, what often gets overlooked is his rock-solid orthodox technique.

He could dismantle the best attacks, but he could also play the anchor when South Africa needed stability. De Villiers’ strike rate of over 100 across his career is testament to how far ahead of his time he was.

In many ways, he paved the way for the modern ODI batsman who combines efficiency with fireworks.

3. Rohit Sharma (India): 217 innings to 9,000 ODI runs

• Span: 23 June 2007 to 19 January 2020

Rohit Sharma’s ODI career is almost the story of two different players. For years he was considered talented but inconsistent. Then, after being promoted to open in 2013, he blossomed into one of the greatest ODI openers in history.

By the time he reached 9000 runs in 217 innings, he had already built a reputation for scoring ‘daddy hundreds.’ Sharma is the only man to score three double-centuries in ODIs, including a world-record 264.

His effortless timing, particularly off the back foot, allowed him to dominate pace and spin alike. Few batsmen can shift gears as smoothly as Rohit, making him a nightmare for bowlers once set.

Also read: Kane Williamson over Ross Taylor – and no Stephen Fleming? Selecting New Zealand’s best Test XI since 1985

4. Sourav Ganguly (India): 228 innings to 9,000 ODI runs

• Span: 11 January 1992 to 9 January 2004

The ‘Prince of Kolkata’ was a trailblazer for India at the top of the order. Ganguly reached 9000 ODI runs in 228 innings, doing so during an era when strike rates were generally far lower than today.

A fearless left-hander, he drove India’s ODI resurgence in the late 1990s and early 2000s with his elegant offside play and ability to dominate fast bowlers in the first 15 overs.

Ganguly wasn’t just a prolific batsman – he was a transformative captain who instilled belief in his side.

His 9000 runs were a reflection of both consistency and leadership, and, although he doesn’t always get the recognition he deserves, he was instrumental in laying the foundation for India’s modern dominance.

5. Sachin Tendulkar (India): 235 innings to 9,000 ODI runs

• Span: 18 December 1989 to 19 March 2000

If the 9000-run milestone is elite, then Tendulkar is the benchmark.

He reached it in 235 innings at a time when ODI cricket was still evolving. Tendulkar defined batting for a generation – fearless against the best quicks, inventive against spinners, and endlessly consistent.

What makes his achievement even greater is that he did it while often carrying the weight of Indian cricket on his shoulders. For over two decades, Tendulkar was India’s biggest hope in every match.

That he still holds the all-time ODI run record is remarkable, but his early dash to 9000 underlines just how prolific he was.

6. Brian Lara (West Indies): 239 innings to 9,000 ODI runs

• Span: 9 November 1990 to 14 January 2005

Brian Lara was known more for his Test exploits, but his ODI record is stellar too. The Trinidadian maestro reached 9000 runs in 239 innings, playing with the same flair that made him a global superstar.

Lara combined elegant stroke play with a competitive streak that saw him rise to big occasions. Whether it was carving spinners through cover or launching quicks over midwicket, he had the full range of shots.

While the West Indies’ ODI fortunes declined during his era, Lara remained their shining light, producing match-winning knocks that often stood alone. His ability to blend style with substance keeps him among the game’s all-time greats.

7. Ricky Ponting (Australia): 242 innings to 9,000 ODI runs

• Span: 15 February 1995 to 5 March 2006

Few batsmen epitomised Australian dominance like Ricky Ponting. Aggressive, tough, and relentless, Ponting reached 9000 ODI runs in 242 innings.

He was at the heart of an era when Australia were virtually unbeatable, winning three consecutive World Cups between 1999 and 2007.

Ponting’s pull shot became iconic, often dispatching fast bowlers into the stands with disdain. Beyond his runs, his leadership and fielding set new standards in the game.

For over a decade, Ponting was the rock of Australia’s batting order, churning out runs against every opponent in every condition.

8. Jacques Kallis (South Africa): 242 innings to 9,000 ODI runs

• Span: 9 January 1996 to 17 April 2007

Jacques Kallis was cricket’s ultimate all-rounder. While often described as more of a Test player, his ODI record is immense: 11,579 runs, 273 wickets, and 131 catches. He reached 9000 ODI runs in 242 innings, matching Ponting.

Kallis was not always the fastest scorer, but his sheer consistency made him invaluable to South Africa. He anchored innings, adapted to situations, and could accelerate when required.

When you add in his world-class seam bowling, he becomes one of the most complete cricketers the game has ever seen. Reaching 9000 runs while balancing the demands of two disciplines is a feat unlikely to be repeated.

9. MS Dhoni (India): 244 innings to 9,000 ODI runs

• Span: 23 December 2004 to 23 October 2016

Few players have had as profound an impact on ODI cricket as Mahendra Singh Dhoni. Known for his calmness under pressure and his unique finishing ability, Dhoni reached 9000 ODI runs in 244 innings.

He revolutionised the role of the wicketkeeper-batsman, proving that a player could dominate both behind the stumps and with the bat. His helicopter shot became a trademark, but it was his icy composure in run chases that defined him.

Dhoni led India to World Cup glory in 2011, and his influence extended far beyond his runs. To reach 9000 while often batting down the order shows both his quality and adaptability.

Dhoni played a total of 297 ODI innings in his career, and he was not out in 84 of those – an incredible statistic.

Fastest to 9,000 ODI runs – top 9 summary list

1. Virat Kohli (India): 194 innings to 9,000 ODI runs
2. AB de Villiers (South Africa): 205 innings to 9,000 ODI runs
3. Rohit Sharma (India): 217 innings to 9,000 ODI runs
4. Sourav Ganguly (India): 228 innings to 9,000 ODI runs
5. Sachin Tendulkar (India): 235 innings to 9,000 ODI runs
6. Brian Lara (West Indies): 239 innings to 9,000 ODI runs
7. Ricky Ponting (Australia): 242 innings to 9,000 ODI runs
8. Jacques Kallis (South Africa): 242 innings to 9,000 ODI runs
9. MS Dhoni (India): 244 innings to 9,000 ODI runs

Read next: Did Chris Gayle get named in this West Indies’ best Test XI of the past 40 years?

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The 9 big-ticket batters who reached 9,000 runs in ODIs the fastest

While the record for the most runs scored in ODI cricket is Sachin Tendulkar’s 18,426, the reality is that 9,000 runs is the mark that distinguishes the truly elite from the very good.

In the history of ODI cricket only 20 players have reached the milestone and a quick look at the names indicates elite company. Reaching 9,000 ODI runs isn’t just about longevity – it’s also about sustained quality.

Let’s take a moment to look at the nine fastest batsmen to reach the milestone – it really does read like a who’s-who of the modern game.

1. Virat Kohli (India): 194 innings to 9,000 ODI runs

• Span: 18 August 2008 to 29 October 2017

No one embodies ODI consistency quite like Virat Kohli. He stormed to 9000 runs in just 194 innings, obliterating previous records and setting a new gold standard for run-scoring.

Kohli’s ability to chase down totals with nerveless precision earned him the moniker “The Chase Master.” At his peak, it often felt inevitable that he would score a century whenever India were faced with a target.

His combination of classical technique and modern aggression made him the defining batsman of the format in the 21st century. To reach 9000 inside a decade is a staggering achievement, and his fitness and hunger kept him producing at the highest level long after.

2. AB de Villiers (South Africa): 205 innings to 9,000 ODI runs

Span: 2 February 2005 to 25 February 2017

Known simply as ‘Mr 360,’ AB de Villiers changed the way people thought about batting in one-day cricket. He reached 9000 runs in 205 innings, mixing audacity with sheer class.

While his reputation was built on outrageous stroke-play: scoops over fine leg and ramp shots over the keeper’s head, what often gets overlooked is his rock-solid orthodox technique.

He could dismantle the best attacks, but he could also play the anchor when South Africa needed stability. De Villiers’ strike rate of over 100 across his career is testament to how far ahead of his time he was.

In many ways, he paved the way for the modern ODI batsman who combines efficiency with fireworks.

3. Rohit Sharma (India): 217 innings to 9,000 ODI runs

• Span: 23 June 2007 to 19 January 2020

Rohit Sharma’s ODI career is almost the story of two different players. For years he was considered talented but inconsistent. Then, after being promoted to open in 2013, he blossomed into one of the greatest ODI openers in history.

By the time he reached 9000 runs in 217 innings, he had already built a reputation for scoring ‘daddy hundreds.’ Sharma is the only man to score three double-centuries in ODIs, including a world-record 264.

His effortless timing, particularly off the back foot, allowed him to dominate pace and spin alike. Few batsmen can shift gears as smoothly as Rohit, making him a nightmare for bowlers once set.

Also read: Kane Williamson over Ross Taylor – and no Stephen Fleming? Selecting New Zealand’s best Test XI since 1985

4. Sourav Ganguly (India): 228 innings to 9,000 ODI runs

• Span: 11 January 1992 to 9 January 2004

The ‘Prince of Kolkata’ was a trailblazer for India at the top of the order. Ganguly reached 9000 ODI runs in 228 innings, doing so during an era when strike rates were generally far lower than today.

A fearless left-hander, he drove India’s ODI resurgence in the late 1990s and early 2000s with his elegant offside play and ability to dominate fast bowlers in the first 15 overs.

Ganguly wasn’t just a prolific batsman – he was a transformative captain who instilled belief in his side.

His 9000 runs were a reflection of both consistency and leadership, and, although he doesn’t always get the recognition he deserves, he was instrumental in laying the foundation for India’s modern dominance.

5. Sachin Tendulkar (India): 235 innings to 9,000 ODI runs

• Span: 18 December 1989 to 19 March 2000

If the 9000-run milestone is elite, then Tendulkar is the benchmark.

He reached it in 235 innings at a time when ODI cricket was still evolving. Tendulkar defined batting for a generation – fearless against the best quicks, inventive against spinners, and endlessly consistent.

What makes his achievement even greater is that he did it while often carrying the weight of Indian cricket on his shoulders. For over two decades, Tendulkar was India’s biggest hope in every match.

That he still holds the all-time ODI run record is remarkable, but his early dash to 9000 underlines just how prolific he was.

6. Brian Lara (West Indies): 239 innings to 9,000 ODI runs

• Span: 9 November 1990 to 14 January 2005

Brian Lara was known more for his Test exploits, but his ODI record is stellar too. The Trinidadian maestro reached 9000 runs in 239 innings, playing with the same flair that made him a global superstar.

Lara combined elegant stroke play with a competitive streak that saw him rise to big occasions. Whether it was carving spinners through cover or launching quicks over midwicket, he had the full range of shots.

While the West Indies’ ODI fortunes declined during his era, Lara remained their shining light, producing match-winning knocks that often stood alone. His ability to blend style with substance keeps him among the game’s all-time greats.

7. Ricky Ponting (Australia): 242 innings to 9,000 ODI runs

• Span: 15 February 1995 to 5 March 2006

Few batsmen epitomised Australian dominance like Ricky Ponting. Aggressive, tough, and relentless, Ponting reached 9000 ODI runs in 242 innings.

He was at the heart of an era when Australia were virtually unbeatable, winning three consecutive World Cups between 1999 and 2007.

Ponting’s pull shot became iconic, often dispatching fast bowlers into the stands with disdain. Beyond his runs, his leadership and fielding set new standards in the game.

For over a decade, Ponting was the rock of Australia’s batting order, churning out runs against every opponent in every condition.

8. Jacques Kallis (South Africa): 242 innings to 9,000 ODI runs

• Span: 9 January 1996 to 17 April 2007

Jacques Kallis was cricket’s ultimate all-rounder. While often described as more of a Test player, his ODI record is immense: 11,579 runs, 273 wickets, and 131 catches. He reached 9000 ODI runs in 242 innings, matching Ponting.

Kallis was not always the fastest scorer, but his sheer consistency made him invaluable to South Africa. He anchored innings, adapted to situations, and could accelerate when required.

When you add in his world-class seam bowling, he becomes one of the most complete cricketers the game has ever seen. Reaching 9000 runs while balancing the demands of two disciplines is a feat unlikely to be repeated.

9. MS Dhoni (India): 244 innings to 9,000 ODI runs

• Span: 23 December 2004 to 23 October 2016

Few players have had as profound an impact on ODI cricket as Mahendra Singh Dhoni. Known for his calmness under pressure and his unique finishing ability, Dhoni reached 9000 ODI runs in 244 innings.

He revolutionised the role of the wicketkeeper-batsman, proving that a player could dominate both behind the stumps and with the bat. His helicopter shot became a trademark, but it was his icy composure in run chases that defined him.

Dhoni led India to World Cup glory in 2011, and his influence extended far beyond his runs. To reach 9000 while often batting down the order shows both his quality and adaptability.

Dhoni played a total of 297 ODI innings in his career, and he was not out in 84 of those – an incredible statistic.

Fastest to 9,000 ODI runs – top 9 summary list

1. Virat Kohli (India): 194 innings to 9,000 ODI runs
2. AB de Villiers (South Africa): 205 innings to 9,000 ODI runs
3. Rohit Sharma (India): 217 innings to 9,000 ODI runs
4. Sourav Ganguly (India): 228 innings to 9,000 ODI runs
5. Sachin Tendulkar (India): 235 innings to 9,000 ODI runs
6. Brian Lara (West Indies): 239 innings to 9,000 ODI runs
7. Ricky Ponting (Australia): 242 innings to 9,000 ODI runs
8. Jacques Kallis (South Africa): 242 innings to 9,000 ODI runs
9. MS Dhoni (India): 244 innings to 9,000 ODI runs

Read next: Did Chris Gayle get named in this West Indies’ best Test XI of the past 40 years?

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