The ICC Cricket World Cup is the biggest stage in international cricket, where the greatest players showcase their talent. Over the years, many legendary batsmen have dominated the tournament, scoring massive runs and leading their teams to glory. In this article, we will look at the cricketers who have scored the most runs in ODI World Cup history.

Sachin Tendulkar (India) – 2,278 Runs

Regarded as one of the greatest batsmen in cricket history, Sachin Tendulkar holds the record for most runs in ODI World Cup history. He played in six World Cups (1992–2011) and was the highest run-scorer in the 1996 and 2003 editions.

Key Achievements:

Matches: 45

Runs: 2,278

Average: 56.95

Centuries: 6

Fifties: 15

Ricky Ponting (Australia) – 1,743 Runs

Australian legend Ricky Ponting was a dominant force in World Cup cricket. As a captain, he led Australia to back-to-back titles in 2003 and 2007, and he played a crucial role with the bat.

Key Achievements:

Matches: 46

Runs: 1,743

Average: 45.86

Centuries: 5

Fifties: 6

Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka) – 1,532 Runs

Kumar Sangakkara was one of Sri Lanka’s most consistent performers in World Cup history. His remarkable four consecutive centuries in the 2015 World Cup remain a record.

Key Achievements:

Matches: 37

Runs: 1,532

Average: 56.74

Centuries: 5

Fifties: 7

Virat Kohli (India) – 1,795 Runs (Ongoing Career)

Modern-day great Virat Kohli has been one of India’s best performers in World Cups. His ability to chase down targets and play under pressure makes him a World Cup icon.

Key Achievements:

Matches: 37 (as of 2023)

Runs: 1,795

Average: 59.83

Centuries: 5

Fifties: 10

 Mahela Jayawardene (Sri Lanka) – 1,110 Runs

Mahela Jayawardene was a key player for Sri Lanka in multiple World Cups. His century in the 2011 final against India remains one of the best World Cup innings ever played.

Key Achievements:

Matches: 40

Runs: 1,110

Average: 35.81

Centuries: 1

Fifties: 6

AB de Villiers (South Africa) – 1,207 Runs

One of the most destructive batsmen in World Cup history, AB de Villiers played several breathtaking innings for South Africa. His explosive batting made him a nightmare for bowlers.

Key Achievements:

Matches: 23

Runs: 1,207

Average: 63.52

Centuries: 4

Fifties: 6

Chris Gayle (West Indies) – 1,186 Runs

West Indies’ power-hitter Chris Gayle entertained fans with his brutal batting. His double century against Zimbabwe in the 2015 World Cup was the first-ever in tournament history.

Key Achievements:

Matches: 35

Runs: 1,186

Average: 35.93

Centuries: 2

Fifties: 6

Jacques Kallis (South Africa) – 1,148 Runs

Jacques Kallis was a solid performer for South Africa, known for his consistency and ability to play under pressure.

Key Achievements:

Matches: 36

Runs: 1,148

Average: 45.92

Centuries: 1

Fifties: 9

Sanath Jayasuriya (Sri Lanka) – 1,165 Runs

Sri Lanka’s explosive opener Sanath Jayasuriya changed the way teams approached the first 15 overs of an ODI with his aggressive batting style.

Key Achievements:

Matches: 38

Runs: 1,165

Average: 34.26

Centuries: 3

Fifties: 6

Joe Root (England) – 1,100+ Runs (Ongoing Career)

England’s Joe Root has been one of their most dependable batsmen in World Cups. His ability to anchor the innings makes him a crucial player.

Key Achievements:

Matches: 27 (as of 2023)

Runs: 1,100+

Average: 53.00

Centuries: 3

Fifties: 7

The ICC Cricket World Cup has seen some legendary batsmen deliver outstanding performances. Sachin Tendulkar remains the highest run-scorer, but with the evolving game, modern players like Virat Kohli and Joe Root could break new records in upcoming tournaments.

These players have defined cricket’s biggest stage with their skills, temperament, and consistency. With future World Cups, more records will be set and broken. Who do you think will top this list in the coming years? Let us know in the comments!