Top Run Scorers in ICC Cricket World Cup History: A Glimpse Ahead of CWC 2023

In the illustrious history of the ICC Cricket World Cup, several cricketing legends have left an indelible mark by amassing a remarkable number of runs. As we gear up for the upcoming 2023 Cricket World Cup in India, it’s only fitting to take a trip down memory lane and revisit the batting stalwarts who have etched their names in the record books.

Sachin Tendulkar: The Little Master, Sachin Tendulkar, reigns supreme as the highest run-scorer in the history of the ODI World Cup. Over the course of 44 innings, Tendulkar accumulated a staggering 2,278 runs, a record that seems almost insurmountable. His consistency and sheer brilliance with the bat have made him an enduring icon in the world of cricket.

Kumar Sangakkara: Sri Lankan legend Kumar Sangakkara follows in Tendulkar’s footsteps with an impressive tally of 1,532 runs. Sangakkara’s elegant stroke play and astute cricketing mind made him one of the most reliable batsmen in World Cup history. His contributions played a pivotal role in Sri Lanka’s success on the global stage.

Brian Lara: The charismatic Brian Lara, former West Indies captain, finds himself in third place with 1,225 runs. Lara’s ability to play breathtaking shots and anchor innings made him a crowd favorite. His left-handed elegance and unmatched skill level remain etched in cricketing folklore.

Shakib Al Hasan: Among the current cricketers, Bangladesh’s Shakib Al Hasan stands tall with 1,146 runs. An exceptional all-rounder, Shakib has been a consistent performer for his team, both with bat and ball. His dynamism and leadership on the field make him a crucial asset for Bangladesh.

Ricky Ponting: The Australian cricketing legend Ricky Ponting secured his place in the top run-scorers list with 1,743 runs. As a former captain, Ponting led Australia to World Cup glory on multiple occasions. His aggressive batting style and astute leadership made him a formidable force.

List of Highest Run Scorers in Cricket World Cup

Here’s a table listing the top 50 run-scorers in ICC Cricket World Cup history:

Position	Player Name & Country	Runs Scored	Innings Played	Highest Score	Span
1	Sachin Tendulkar (IND)	2278	44	152	1992-2011
2	Ricky Ponting (AUS)	1743	42	140*	1996-2011
3	Kumar Sangakkara (SL)	1532	35	124	2003-2015
4	Brian Lara (WI)	1225	33	116	1992-2007
5	AB de Villiers (SA)	1207	22	162*	2007-2015
6	Chris Gayle (WI)	1186	34	215	2003-2019
7	Sanath Jayasuriya (SL)	1165	37	120	1992-2007
8	Jacques Kallis (SA)	1148	32	128*	1996-2011
9	Shakib Al Hasan (BAN)	1146	29	124*	2007-2019
10	Tillakaratne Dilshan (SL)	1112	25	161*	2007-2015
11	Mahela Jayawardene (SL)	1100	34	115*	1999-2015
12	Adam Gilchrist (AUS)	1085	31	149	1999-2007
13	Javed Miandad (PAK)	1083	30	103	1975-1996
14	Stephen Fleming (NZ)	1075	33	134*	1996-2007
15	Herchelle Gibbs (SA)	1067	23	143	1999-2007
16	Aravinda de Silva (SL)	1064	32	145	1987-2003
17	Virat Kohli (IND)	1030	26	107	2011-2019
18	Viv Richards (WI)	1013	21	181	1975-1987
19	Sourav Ganguly (IND)	1006	21	183	1999-2007
20	Mark Waugh (AUS)	1004	22	130	1992-1999
21	Ross Taylor (NZ)	1002	30	131*	2007-2019
22	Martin Guptill (NZ)	995	27	237*	2011-2019
23	David Warner (AUS)	992	18	178	2015-2019
24	Matthew Hayden (AUS)	987	21	158	2003-2007
25	Rohit Sharma (IND)	978	17	140	2015-2019
26	Steve Waugh (AUS)	978	30	120*	1987-1999
27	Shivnarine Chanderpaul (WI)	970	28	102*	1996-2011
28	Arjuna Ranatunga (SL)	969	29	88*	1983-1999
29	Faf du Plessis (SA)	926	21	109	2011-2019
30	Saeed Anwar (PAK)	915	21	113*	1996-2003
31	Kane Williamson (NZ)	911	22	148	2011-2019
32	Scott Styris (NZ)	909	22	141	2003-2011
33	Graham Gooch (ENG)	897	21	115	1979-1992
34	Michael Clarke (AUS)	888	21	93*	2007-2015
35	Martin Crowe (NZ)	880	21	100*	1983-1992
36	Mushfiqur Rahim (BAN)	877	28	102*	2007-2019
37	Rahul Dravid (IND)	860	21	145	1999-2007
38	Desmond Haynes (WI)	854	25	105	1979-1992
39	Virender Sehwag (IND)	843	22	175	2003-2011
40	Hashim Amla (SA)	842	22	159	2011-2019
41	Steve Smith (AUS)	834	20	105	2011-2019
42	Mohammad Azharuddin (IND)	826	25	93	1987-1999
43	David Boon (AUS)	815	16	100	1987-1992
44	Andy Flower (ZIM)	815	29	115*	1992-2003
45	Gary Kirsten (SA)	806	21	188*	1996-2003
46	Aaron Finch (AUS)	787	18	153	2015-2019
47	MS Dhoni (IND)	780	25	91*	2007-2019
48	Steve Tikolo (KENYA)	768	27	96	1996-2011
49	Joe Root (ENG)	758	16	121	2015-2019
50	Graeme Smith (SA)	747	20	91	2003-2011

These records showcase the incredible talent and longevity of these cricketers who have left an indelible mark on the ICC Cricket World Cup.

This exclusive group of top run-scorers showcases the sheer talent, dedication, and determination of these cricketing icons. Sachin Tendulkar’s remarkable feat not only places him at the pinnacle but also underscores his unmatched contribution to Indian cricket. Notably, Tendulkar also holds the record for the most runs scored in a single World Cup edition, amassing a remarkable 673 runs during the 2003 competition.

Bangladesh skipper Shakib Al Hasan is the only active player on the list.

As we anticipate the 2023 Cricket World Cup in India, we can’t help but wonder if the current generation of cricketers will rise to the challenge and make their mark on this prestigious list. One thing is certain: the world will be watching as the tournament unfolds, with cricketing legends past and present providing inspiration to aspiring cricketers and fans alike.