Fastest Players to Score 10000+ Runs in ODIs Cricket History

In the glorious history of ODI cricket, scoring 10,000 runs is a huge achievement. It is a testament to a player’s consistency, adaptability and longevity. Only a few players have achieved this feat, and of those, a few legends have achieved it very quickly, both in terms of matches and innings.

This blog reveals who are the fastest players to reach 10,000 runs in ODI cricket and what sets them apart in the modern and classic eras of the game.

List Of Fastest To 10,000 Runs in ODIs

1. Virat Kohli: Fastest Ever (205 Innings)

Virat Kohli tops the list. He completed 10,000 ODI runs in just 205 innings, breaking the previous record of Sachin Tendulkar. Kohli’s consistency and ability to score runs in all conditions make this feat extraordinary. Kohli achieved this feat against West Indies in Visakhapatnam (2018). By then, he had established himself as one of the great batsmen of modern times with an average of over 59. His conversion rate from half-century to century was unlike anything seen before in ODI cricket.

2. Rohit Sharma: The Hitman (241 Innings)

With three ODI double centuries, Rohit Sharma became the second fastest Indian to score 10,000 runs. He achieved the milestone against Sri Lanka in Colombo (2023) after a glorious 16-year career. Rohit’s transformation from a middle-order batsman to one of the most devastating openers in history is a story worth learning from. Known for his easy timing and ability to play long innings, his 10,000-run achievement is a reflection of perseverance and skill.

Similar Article: Fastest Players to Score 5000+ Runs in Test Cricket History

3. Sachin Tendulkar: The Benchmark (259 Innings)

Before Kohli and Rohit, the “Little Master” Sachin Tendulkar was the ultimate standard for batsmen. He became the first player to complete 10,000 ODI runs during India’s match against Australia in Indore in 2001. Tendulkar’s record stood for more than a decade and continued to inspire an entire generation of cricketers. The 10,000-run mark came after 11 years and 259 innings, in which he proved his consistency.

4. Sourav Ganguly: The Aggressive Leader (263 Innings)

Known as the Prince of Kolkata, Sourav Ganguly’s contribution to Indian cricket goes beyond his runs. He was the first Indian captain to instill aggression and confidence in the team. Ganguly completed 10,000 runs against Sri Lanka in Dambulla in 2005. His calm and coordinated off-side stroke play and fearless leadership turned India into a world-winning team in the early 2000s.

5. Ricky Ponting: Australian Powerhouse (266 Innings)

One of cricket’s most successful captains, Ricky Ponting crossed the 10,000-run mark against South Africa in 2007. Known for his aggressive intent, sharp cricketing mind and impeccable pull shot, Ponting’s numbers speak volumes. He achieved the feat in 266 innings, leading Australia to a golden era with two consecutive World Cup wins (2003, 2007).

Other Notable Names

While Kohli, Rohit and Tendulkar rule the headlines, many other legends also achieved the feat:

• Jacques Kallis: A complete all-rounder who combines batting prowess with bowling prowess.
• MS Dhoni: A supreme finisher, scoring 10,000 runs despite batting mostly at No. 6.
• Kumar Sangakkara: The stylish Sri Lankan wicketkeeper who maintained an average of over 40.
• Chris Gayle: The “Universe Boss”, renowned for his power hitting and longevity.
• Brian Lara: The most prolific left-arm bowler from the West Indies, bridging the gap between the classical and modern eras.

Each of these players brought their own style to ODI cricket, shaping the burgeoning world of batting through different eras.

Evolution Of ODI Batting Over The Years

From the 1990s to the 2020s, ODI cricket has evolved dramatically. Earlier, pitch and fielding limitations gave bowlers an advantage but that is no longer the case.

• In the 1990s: An average of 40 was elite.
• In the 2000s: A strike rate of 85+ became the new norm.
• 2010 and beyond: Players like Kohli, Rohit and de Villiers hit boundaries at an average of 60 with a strike rate of 100+.

The target of 10,000 runs, which was once considered almost impossible, has now become an achievable goal for many great batsmen in the modern era.

Conclusion

Reaching 10,000 ODI runs is not just about skill, it is about discipline, consistency and mental strength. From Tendulkar’s classical hits to Kohli’s hunger, these players have raised the ODI batting rate to an all-time high. With young stars like Babar Azam and Shubman Gill already breaking records, the future of this elite club looks bright. But for now, the legacy of these legends inspires millions.

Continue Reading: Fastest Players to Score 5000+ Runs in ODIs Cricket History

FAQs

Q1. Who is the fastest player to score 10,000 runs in ODI cricket?

The fastest player to score 10,000 ODI runs is Virat Kohli, who achieved the milestone in just 205 innings and 213 matches. He broke Sachin Tendulkar’s long-standing record of 259 innings and achieved the feat in less than 11 years after his debut in 2008.

Q2. How many Indian players have scored more than 10,000 runs in ODIs?

India dominates this list with six players: Tendulkar, Sourav, Rahul Dravid, MS Dhoni, Kohli and Rohit Sharma. This shows the incredible depth and dominance of India’s ODI batting across different eras.

Q3. Who was the first player to score 10,000 runs in ODIs?

Sachin Tendulkar was the first player to cross 10,000 ODI runs. He achieved this historic feat against Australia in Indore on 31 March 2001.

Q4. How does Virat Kohli’s record compare statistically with other players?

Kohli’s record is extraordinary. Not only was he the fastest to reach 10,000 runs, but he did it with a strike rate of over 93 and an average of close to 60.

Q5. Which active players are likely to reach 10,000 ODI runs in the near future?

As of now, Babar Azam, Shai Hope and Shubman Gill are at the top. Their strike rates and averages are already among the best in the world.

Check Also: Fastest Players to Score 10000+ Runs in Test Cricket History

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