The countdown has begun for cricket enthusiasts worldwide as the ODI World Cup 2023 is set to kick off on October 5th, 2023. As fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming tournament, it’s a fitting time to reflect on the history of the competition and the remarkable feats achieved by some of the game’s greatest players.
In this article, we look into the records of the ODI World Cup and highlight the top five highest run scorers in the tournament’s illustrious history.
Highest run-scorers in ODI World Cup history
1. Sachin Tendulkar (India)
Span: 1992-2011 | Matches: 45 | Innings: 44 | Runs: 2278 | Highest Score: 152 | Average: 56.95
When it comes to ODI World Cup records, one name stands head and shoulders above the rest—Sachin Tendulkar. The Little Master, as he is fondly known, graced the World Cup stage across four editions. His 2278 runs in 44 innings at an astonishing average of 56.95 cement his legacy as the leading run-scorer in World Cup history. Tendulkar’s dazzling array of strokes and unwavering consistency in the tournament earned him a total of six centuries and 15 half-centuries, making him a true World Cup legend.
2. Ricky Ponting (Australia)
Span: 1996-2011 | Matches: 46 | Innings: 42 | Runs: 1743 | Highest Score: 140 | Average: 45.86*
Ricky Ponting, the former Australian skipper, is widely regarded as one of the greatest captains and batsmen in the history of the sport. His performances in the ODI World Cup further solidify his legendary status. Ponting amassed 1743 runs in 42 innings at an average of 45.86. His five centuries and six half-centuries not only contributed significantly to Australia’s World Cup successes but also showcased his ability to rise to the occasion on the grandest stage of them all.
3. Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka)
Span: 2003-2015 | Matches: 37 | Innings: 35 | Runs: 1532 | Highest Score: 124 | Average: 56.74
Kumar Sangakkara, the elegant Sri Lankan wicketkeeper-batsman, left an indelible mark on the ODI World Cup with his stylish strokeplay and impeccable consistency. His 1532 runs in 35 innings at an astonishing average of 56.74 are a testament to his class. Sangakkara’s five centuries and seven half-centuries not only propelled Sri Lanka’s campaigns but also solidified his position as one of the tournament’s premier batsmen.
4. Brian Lara (West Indies)
Span: 1992-2007 | Matches: 34 | Innings: 33 | Runs: 1225 | Highest Score: 116 | Average: 42.24
Brian Lara, the West Indies cricketing maestro, may have competed in an era when West Indies cricket was on the wane, but his contributions to the ODI World Cup are etched in history. Lara’s 1225 runs in 33 innings at an average of 42.24 reflect his ability to anchor the innings for his team. With two centuries and seven half-centuries, Lara’s elegant batting style left an enduring impact on World Cup cricket.
5. AB de Villiers (South Africa)
Span: 2007-2015 | Matches: 23 | Innings: 22 | Runs: 1207 | Highest Score: 162 | Average: 63.52*
AB de Villiers, the modern-day cricketing genius, dazzled fans around the world with his audacious strokeplay and innovation. In the ODI World Cup, his 1207 runs in 22 innings at a jaw-dropping average of 63.52 speak volumes about his ability to dominate the best bowling attacks. De Villiers’ four centuries and six half-centuries are a testament to his versatility and his penchant for turning the game on its head.
As cricket aficionados gear up for the ODI World Cup 2023, these legends from the past continue to inspire with their remarkable achievements. The upcoming tournament promises to unearth new heroes and create unforgettable moments, adding to the rich tapestry of World Cup history.
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