Fastest Players to Score 5000+ Runs in ODIs Cricket History

In One Day International (ODI) cricket, scoring 5,000 runs is a milestone that sets the greatest batsmen apart from the rest. It has been a symbol of consistency, adaptability and talent throughout the years of international cricket. Some of the world’s greatest batsmen have achieved this feat, but a select few have done it at a much faster pace. In short, redefining how quickly 50-over cricket can be dominated.

In this blog, we take a closer look at the fastest 5000-run scorers in ODIs, the playing styles and the records they have set in the process.

List Of Fastest Players To Score 5000 ODI Runs

Top Performers And Their Journey To Score 5000 ODI Runs

1. Babar Azam (Pakistan): Fastest Ever (97 Innings)

Babar Azam holds the record of being the fastest batsman to score 5000 runs in ODI history, achieving the feat in just 97 innings. With superb stroke play and consistency, Babar has become a mainstay of Pakistan’s batting lineup across all formats. His ability to handle both pace and spin equally makes him a rare modern classic batsman. What makes this record even more impressive is that Babar plays really well on subcontinental pitches.

2. Hashim Amla (South Africa): 101 Innings

Before the rise of Babar Azam, Hashim Amla was the undisputed benchmark for batting pace in ODIs. He crossed the 5000-run mark in just 101 innings, rewriting South Africa’s record books. Amla’s calm demeanor and textbook technique made him unbeaten in the 2010s. His ability to easily change strike and increase pace when needed made him a staple of the South African team for years.

Similar Article: Fastest Players to Score 10000+ Runs in ODIs Cricket History

3. Sir Vivian Richards (West Indies): 114 Innings

The “Master Blaster” of the 1970s and 80s, Sir Viv Richards completed 5000 runs in just 114 innings. This was a rare feat given the limited ODI opportunities during his era and the lack of the benefits of modern powerplay. Viv Richards changed ODI cricket forever. He was the first player to dominate the bowlers with pure aggression, setting the stage for future power hitters like Ponting, Sehwag and Gayle.

4. Virat Kohli (India): 114 Innings

One of the highest run-scorers in cricket history, Virat Kohli equalled Viv Richards’ feat by completing 5000 runs in 114 innings. Kohli’s unrivaled consistency, fitness and hunger for runs have made him a modern legend. Known as the “Chase Master”, Kohli’s record in successful run-chases is astonishing. His ability to perform under pressure against any opponent sets him apart from the rest.

5. Shai Hope (West Indies): 114 Innings

In the new generation, Shai Hope has established himself as one of the most reliable ODI batsmen for West Indies. Completing 5000 runs in 114 innings, Hope has shown a blend of classical technique and modern scoring ability. As a wicketkeeper-batsman, his consistency is very important for a team in transition. His composure and ability to bat deep into the innings reminds many of Kumar Sangakkara’s approach to ODIs. Did you know? Shai Hope is the fastest West Indies wicketkeeper to complete 5000 ODI runs.

6. David Warner (Australia): 115 Innings

Australia’s explosive opener David Warner crossed the 5000-run mark in 115 innings. Known for his hit batting and unique powerplay routine, Warner has been a key player in Australia’s ODI success since 2015. From his dynamic strokeplay to his ability to adapt to all conditions, Warner exemplifies the aggression of a modern opener.

Evolution Of ODI Batting

From the days of Vivian and Sunil to modern legends like Babar and Kohli, the art of ODI batting has changed dramatically. Earlier, 250 was the winning total, now even 350 is not safe. Modern batsmen benefit from better batsmen, smaller boundaries, powerplay and a fitness regime. However, the level of competition and expectations has also increased. Maintaining consistency across hundreds of matches like Kohli or Amla is nothing short of legendary.

Conclusion

From the era of Viv to the newfound precision of Azam and Kohli, the evolution of cricket is reflected. Each of these players has not only mastered the art of scoring runs, but has also shaped how modern batting is perceived. As the ODI format continues to evolve, one thing remains constant! Great batsmen will always find a way to dominate, no matter the era or the opposing team.

Read More: Fastest Players to Score 10000+ Runs in Test Cricket History

FAQs

Q1. Who is the fastest batsman to score 5000 runs in ODI cricket?

The fastest player to score 5000 ODI runs is Pakistan’s Babar Azam, who achieved the milestone in just 97 innings. Babar’s incredible consistency and match awareness make him one of the most complete ODI batsmen of this era.

Q2. How does Babar Azam’s record compare with legends like Kohli and Amla?

Babar Azam completed 5000 runs faster than both Hashim Amla (101 innings) and Virat Kohli (114 innings). While Kohli ultimately scored more centuries and run-chases, Babar’s early career record is unmatched.

Q3. Who was the first player to score 5000 runs in ODIs?

Sir Viv Richards of West Indies was the first player to score 5000 ODI runs in 1987. He achieved the feat in 114 innings, which was an extraordinary feat for that era, as ODIs were few in number.

Q4. Which Indian players have completed 5000 ODI runs the fastest?

Among Indian players: Virat Kohli (114 innings), Shikhar Dhawan (118 innings), MS Dhoni (135 innings) and Rohit Sharma (142 innings). But Kohli is still the fastest Indian to complete 5000 runs, followed by Dhawan.

Q5. What makes completing 5000 runs in ODIs special?

Scoring 5000 runs in ODIs is not just a matter of skill but also of longevity, adaptability and mental strength. In a tough format where adaptability is key, only a few batsmen manage to maintain such excellence.

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

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