Which Player Has Scored the Most Runs in International Cricket?

Jan 12, 2026, 12:46 IST

Sachin Tendulkar holds the record for the most runs in international cricket with 34,357 runs across Tests, ODIs, and T20Is, making him the highest run-scorer in cricket history. Keep reading in detail about the legend.

Most Runs in International Cricket: Sachin Tendulkar has scored the most runs in international cricket, with a total of 34,357 runs across Test matches, One Day Internationals (ODIs), and T20 Internationals. His record remains unmatched in world cricket, making him the highest run-scorer in the history of international cricket.

Why Does Sachin Tendulkar Have the Most Runs in International Cricket?

Sachin Tendulkar holds the record for the most runs in international cricket because of his extraordinary longevity, consistency, and adaptability across formats. He played at the highest level for more than two decades, allowing him to accumulate runs steadily against all major cricketing nations.

International Career of Sachin Tendulkar

Sachin Tendulkar made his international debut for India in 1989 and retired in 2013. Over his career, he represented India in 200 Test matches, 463 ODIs, and 1 T20 International, making him one of the longest-serving international cricketers in history.

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Runs Scored by Sachin Tendulkar in Each Format

Sachin Tendulkar scored 15,921 runs in Test cricket, 18,426 runs in One Day Internationals, and 10 runs in T20 Internationals. His ODI run tally remains the highest ever recorded, while his Test runs place him among the greatest Test batsmen of all time.

First player to score 100 international centuries

Sachin Tendulkar was the first player to score 100 international centuries and the first to cross 30,000 international runs. He also became the first cricketer to score a double century in ODIs, adding significantly to his overall run record.

Performance Across Countries and Conditions

Sachin Tendulkar scored heavily in both home and overseas conditions, including challenging tours of Australia, England, South Africa, and New Zealand. His technical versatility allowed him to succeed on fast pitches, swinging tracks, and spin-friendly surfaces.

Comparison With Other Top Run-Scorers

Cricketers such as Kumar Sangakkara, Ricky Ponting, Virat Kohli, and Jacques Kallis are among the highest international run-scorers, but none have surpassed Sachin Tendulkar’s overall international run tally. His record continues to be the benchmark for batting excellence.

Interesting Facts About Sachin Tendulkar 

Highest Run-Scorer in Tests and ODIs

Sachin Tendulkar is the highest run-scorer in both Test cricket and One Day Internationals. This unique achievement highlights his dominance across the two most important formats of the game over an extended period.

Longest Career Among Top Batsmen

His international career spanned 24 years, during which he played against multiple generations of bowlers. His ability to adapt his technique with age helped him maintain consistency and prolong his run-scoring career.

First Player to Score 100 International Centuries

Sachin Tendulkar was the first cricketer to reach the milestone of 100 international centuries. This record reflects not only talent but also extraordinary endurance and mental strength.

Consistent Performer in Overseas Conditions

He scored centuries in almost every major cricket-playing nation, proving his ability to perform outside home conditions. His overseas runs played a crucial role in India’s competitiveness abroad.

Known as the God of Cricket

Sachin Tendulkar is popularly referred to as the “God of Cricket” due to his impact on the sport and his unmatched records. His influence extends beyond statistics, inspiring generations of cricketers worldwide.

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Sachin Tendulkar has scored the most runs in international cricket because of his unmatched longevity, consistency, and adaptability across formats and conditions. With 34,357 international runs, he remains the highest run-scorer in cricket history and a global icon of the sport. Keep reading for more such topics.

Jasreet Kaur
Jasreet Kaur

Sub Editor

Jasreet Kaur is a journalist with 3+ years of experience. Driven and committed, she writes on Trending News, covering both National and International topics. She has previously worked with Zee News as a content writer.  Fueled by a desire to see positive growth in organizations, society, and the world.

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