Fastest Players to Score 10k/11k/12k/13k/14k Runs in ODIs 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. Sachin Tendulkar (IND)

• 10,000 Runs: 259 innings
• 15,000 Runs: 392 innings
• 18,426 Runs (Career Total): 463 innings

2. Kumar Sangakkara (SL)

• 10,000 Runs: 202 innings
• 12,000 Runs: 240 innings
• 14,234 Runs (Career Total): 404 innings

3. Ricky Ponting (AUS)

• 10,000 Runs: 217 innings
• 12,000 Runs: 260 innings
• 13,704 Runs (Career Total): 375 innings

4. Mahela Jayawardene (SL)

• 10,000 Runs: 208 innings
• 12,000 Runs: 250 innings
• 12,650 Runs (Career Total): 448 innings

5. Jacques Kallis (SA)

• 10,000 Runs: 232 innings
• 12,000 Runs: 280 innings
• 11,579 Runs (Career Total): 328 innings

6. Rahul Dravid (IND)

• 10,000 Runs (Career Total): 344 innings
• 10,889 Runs (Career Total): 344 innings

7. Brian Lara (WI)

• 10,000 Runs (Career Total): 314 innings
• 10,405 Runs (Career Total): 312 innings

1. Sachin Tendulkar

Before Kohli and Rohit, “Little Master” Sachin Tendulkar was the ultimate benchmark among batsmen. In 2001, during India’s match against Australia in Indore, he became the first player to complete 10,000 ODI runs. Tendulkar’s record stood for more than a decade and continued to inspire an entire generation of cricketers. His landmark 10,000 runs came after proving his consistency across 11 years and 259 innings.

2. Kumar Sangakkara (SL)

Kumar Sangakkara scored 14,234 ODI runs in 404 innings and became Sri Lanka’s most successful batsman. Known for his excellent bowling and timing, he crossed the 10,000 and 12,000 run milestones with remarkable consistency. Sangakkara’s ability to run a rapid innings and bowl fast when needed made him a vital performer and leader. He has created a legacy as one of the finest wicketkeeper-batsmen in limited-overs cricket.

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3. Ricky Ponting (SA)

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 statistics speak volumes. He achieved the feat in 266 innings, leading Australia to a golden era with two consecutive World Cup wins (2003, 2007).

4. Mahela Jayawardene (SL)

Mahela Jayawardene, who scored 12,650 runs in 448 ODI innings, was a symbol of grandeur and reliability. Crossing the 10,000 and 12,000 run marks, he paced Sri Lanka’s innings with poise and precision. Known for his shot selection and calm demeanor, his contributions in both batting and leadership roles made him a key figure in Sri Lanka for over a decade.

5. Jacques Kallis (SA)

Jacques Kallis scored 11,579 runs in 328 ODI innings, an example of classical batting and all-rounder excellence. Reaching the 10,000 and 11,000 run milestones, Kallis’ technique, patience and power made him South Africa’s most reliable batsman. His ability to adapt to different conditions and play under pressure made him one of the most complete cricketers in ODI history.

6. Rahul Dravid (IND)

Known as “The Wall”, Rahul Dravid scored 10,889 runs in 344 ODI innings, in which he displayed patience, technique and consistency. Crossing the 10,000-run mark, Dravid played a key role in India’s match chases and partnerships. His ability to adapt to all match situations, cope with pressure and bat for long periods made him a reliable and respected ODI batsman.

7. Brian Lara (WI)

Brian Lara scored 10,405 runs in 312 ODI innings, known for his aggressive yet stylish strokeplay. Crossing the 10,000-run mark, Lara was able to win matches under pressure. His talent, timing and ability to dominate bowling attacks made him a West Indies legend. Not only that, his brilliance and destructive power have left a lasting mark on ODI cricket.

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.

Related Article: Fastest Players to Score 5000/6000/7000/8000/9000 Runs in Test History

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.

FAQs: Questions & Answers

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.

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