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How Many ODI World Cups Did Sachin Tendulkar Play in? | Top 20 List of Cricketers with Most World Cup Matches

Which cricketers have played the most World Cup matches? How many World Cups did Sachin Tendulkar Play in?

Here is a quick answer: Sachin Tendulkar played 45 World Cup matches, but he is actually the second for the most World Cup matches. Ricky Ponting at 46 has played the most ODI WC matches.

Here are all the details. Keep reading.

Key Takeaways – Most World Cup Matches

  • Ricky Ponting (46), Sachin Tendulkar (45), Mahela Jayawardene (40), Muttiah Muralitharan (40), and Glenn McGrath (39) have played the most World Cup matches.
  • The Top 20 cricketers in this list consist of: 1 South African, 2 Indians, 3 Australians, 2 from West Indies, 3 Pakistanis, 4 from New Zealand, and 5 Sri Lankan.
  • 13 of the players with the longest World Cup careers were proper batters (or keepers), 2 bowlers, and 5 all-rounders.

*Note: Shakib Al Hasan & Mushfiqur Rahim currently have played 29 World Cup matches. They have a chance to go to the Top 5-6 in this list if they play all World Cup 2023 matches (Sadly, Tamim Iqbal ends his World Cup career at 29 matches after he was controversially left out of the World Cup).

List of Cricketers with Most World Cup Matches

PlayerWorld Cup Matches Played
Ricky Ponting46
Sachin Tendulkar45
Mahela Jayawardene40
Muttiah Muralitharan40
Glenn McGrath39
Sanath Jayasuriya38
Wasim Akram38
Kumar Sangakkara37
Jacques Kallis36
Aravanda de Silva35
Chris Gayle35
Inzamam-ul-Haq35
Brian Lara34
Brendon McCullum34
Javagal Srinath34
Stephen Fleming33
Javed Miandad33
Ross Taylor33
Steve Waugh33
Daniel Vettori32
Shivnarine Chanderpaul31
Adam Gilchrist31
Shaun Pollock31
Chaminda Vaas31
Mohammad Azharuddin30
Andy Flower30
Arjuna Ranatunga30
MS Dhoni29
Ijaz Ahmed29
Lasith Malinga29
Eoin Morgan29
Mushfiqur Rahim29
Shakib Al Hasan29
Tamim Iqbal29

Top 20 Cricketers with Most World Cup Matches

1. Ricky Ponting (Australia) – 46 CWC Matches

  • Years Played: 1996-2011
  • World Cups Played: 5
  • World Cups Won: 3 (4 Finals)
  • Runs: 1743
  • Catches: 28
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2. Sachin Tendulkar (India) – 45 CWC Matches

  • Years Played: 1992-2011
  • World Cups Played: 6
  • World Cups Won: 1 (2 Finals)
  • Runs/Wickets: 2278/8
  • Catches: 12
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3. Mahela Jayawardene (Sri Lanka) – 40 CWC Matches

  • Years Played: 1999-2015
  • World Cups Played: 5
  • World Cups Won: 0 (2 Finals)
  • Runs/Wickets: 1100/2
  • Catches: 16
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4. Muttiah Muralitharan (Sri Lanka) – 40 CWC Matches

  • Years Played: 1996-2011
  • World Cups Played: 5
  • World Cups Won: 1 (3 Finals)
  • Wickets: 68
  • Catches: 13
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5. Glenn McGrath (Australia) – 39 CWC Matches

  • Years Played: 1996-2007
  • World Cups Played: 4
  • World Cups Won: 3 (4 Finals)
  • Wickets: 71
  • Catches: 5
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6. Sanath Jayasuriya (Sri Lanka) – 38 CWC Matches

  • Years Played: 1992-2007
  • World Cups Played: 5
  • World Cups Won: 1 (2 Finals0
  • Runs/Wickets: 1165/27
  • Catches: 18
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7. Wasim Akram (Pakistan) – 38 CWC Matches

  • Years Played: 1987-2003
  • World Cups Played: 5
  • World Cups Won: 1 (2 Finals)
  • Runs/Wickets: 426/55
  • Catches: 8
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8. Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka) – 37 CWC Matches

  • Years Played: 2003-2015
  • World Cups Played: 4
  • World Cups Won: 0 (2 Finals)
  • Runs: 1532
  • Catches/Stumpings: 41/13
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9. Jacques Kallis (South Africa) – 36 CWC Matches

  • Years Played: 1996-2011
  • World Cups Played: 5
  • World Cups Won: 0
  • Runs/Wickets: 1148/21
  • Catches: 13
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10. Aravinda de Silva (Sri Lanka) – 35 CWC Matches

  • Years Played: 1987-2003
  • World Cups Played: 5
  • World Cups Won: 1
  • Runs: 1064/16
  • Catches: 14
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11. Chris Gayle (West Indies) – 35 CWC Matches

  • Years Played: 2003-2019
  • World Cups Played: 5
  • World Cups Won: 0
  • Runs/Wickets: 1186/16
  • Catches: 17
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12. Inzamam-ul-Haq (Pakistan) – 35 CWC Matches

  • Years Played: 1992-2007
  • World Cups Played: 5
  • World Cups Won: 1 (2 Finals)
  • Runs: 717
  • Catches: 16
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13. Brian Lara (West Indies) – 34 CWC Matches

  • Years Played: 1992-2007
  • World Cups Played: 5
  • World Cups Won: 0
  • Runs: 1225
  • Catches: 16
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14. Brendon McCullum (New Zealand) – 34 CWC Matches

  • Years Played: 2003-2015
  • World Cups Played: 4
  • World Cups Won: 0 (1 Final)
  • Runs: 742
  • Catches/Stumpings: 32/2
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15. Javagal Srinath (India) – 34 CWC Matches

  • Years Played: 1992-2003
  • World Cups Played: 4
  • World Cups Won: 0 (1 Final)
  • Wickets: 44
  • Catches: 4
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16. Stephen Fleming (New Zealand) – 33 CWC Matches

  • Years Played: 1996-2007
  • World Cups Played: 4
  • World Cups Won: 0
  • Runs: 1975
  • Catches: 12
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17. Javed Miandad (Pakistan) – 33 CWC Matches

  • Years Played: 2975-1996
  • World Cups Played: 6
  • World Cups Won: 1
  • Runs/Wickets: 1083/4
  • Catches: 10
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18. Ross Taylor (New Zealand) – 33 CWC Matches

  • Years Played: 2007-2019
  • World Cups Played: 4
  • World Cups Won: 0 (2 Finals)
  • Runs: 1002
  • Catches: 11
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19. Steve Waugh (Australia) – 33 CWC Matches

  • Years Played: 1987-1999
  • World Cups Played: 4
  • World Cups Won: 2 (3 Finals)
  • Runs/Wickets: 978/27
  • Catches: 11
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20. Daniel Vettori (New Zealand) – 32 CWC Matches

  • Years Played: 2003-2015
  • World Cups Played: 4
  • World Cups Won: 0 (1 Final)
  • Runs/Wickets: 167/36
  • Catches: 9
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Honorable Mentions:

  • 31 Matches: Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Adam Gilchrist, Chaminda Vaas
  • 30 Matches: Mohammad Azharuddin, Andy Flower, Arjuna Ranatunga
  • 29 Matches: MS Dhoni, Ijaz Ahmed, Lasith Malinga, Eoin Morgan, Mushfiqur Rahm, Shakib Al Hasan, Tamim Iqbal

Final Thoughts

Longevity is the key to several positive outcomes in life.

These players have stayed at the top of the game for more than a decade. WE can just sit back and appreciate their contributions to their teams, the Cricket World Cup, and the sport of cricket in general.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Most World Cup Matches Played by Cricketers

Which cricketers have played the most Cricket World Cup matches?

Ricky Ponting (46), Sachin Tendulkar (45), Mahela Jayawardene (40< Muttiah Muralitharan (39), and Glenn McGrath (39) have played the most World Cup matches.Cricketers Who has Played Most World Cup Matches: (Pictures from Left to Right) Glenn McGrath, Ricky Ponting, Sachin Tendulkar, Mahela Jayawardene, Muttiah Muralitharan

How many World Cup matches has Virat Kohli played?

Virat Kohli has played 26 World Cup matches so far.

Other 2023 Cricket World Cup Content

If you liked reading facts about the World Cup, consider checking these articles out:

© Copyright @Nitesh Mathur and Broken Cricket Dreams, LLC 2023. Originally published on 09/23/2023. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Broken Cricket Dreams with appropriate and specific direction to the original content (i.e. linked to the exact post/article).

Top 10 Most Centuries in ODI Cricket World Cup: Can You Guess Who has Scored the Most CWC Hundreds?

Who has scored the most centuries ODI Cricket World Cup?

Here is a quick answer: Rohit Sharma & Sachin Tendulkar have scored the joint highest number of hundreds in ODI Cricket World Cups at 6 centuries each.

Rohit Sharma has a chance to go ahead of the pack by scoring more hundreds in the upcoming 2023 ODI Cricket World Cup.

Key Takeaways

  • 10 cricketers have scored 4 or more centuries in the ODI Cricket World Cup. Rohit Sharma & Sachin Tendulkar lead the pack with 6 each, with Kumar Sangakkara, Ricky Ponting, and David Warner close behind with 5 each.
  • Sri Lanka, India, and Australia have 3 representatives each from this list while South Africa has only one in AB de Villiers
  • Rohit Sharma and David Warner are the only current players in the list. Joe Root is currently sitting at 3 World Cup tons.
PlayerTeamHundreds
Rohit SharmaIndia6
Sachin TendulkarIndia6
Kumar SangakkaraSri Lanka5
Ricky PontingAustralia5
David WarnerAustralia5
Sourav GangulyIndia4
AB de VilliersSouth Africa4
Mark WaughAustralia4
Tillakaratne DilshanSri Lanka4
Mahela JayawardeneSri Lanka4

1. Rohit Sharma (India) – 6

  • Matches/Innings: 17/17
  • WCs Played: 2015, 2019
  • Runs: 978
  • 100s/50s: 6/3
  • Average/Strike Rate: 65.20/95.97

Rohit Sharma List of World Cup Hundreds

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2. Sachin Tendulkar (India) – 6

  • Matches/Innings: 45/44
  • WCs Played: 1992, 1996, 1999, 2003, 2007, 2011
  • Runs: 2278
  • 100s/50s: 6/15
  • Average/Strike Rate: 56.95/88.98

Sachin Tendulkar List of World Cup Hundreds

Also Read: Sachin Tendulkar Centuries (The Definitive Guide): Everything You Need To Know About Sachin Tendulkar’s Hundred 100s

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3. Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka) – 5

  • Matches/Innings: 37/35
  • WCs Played: 2003, 2007, 2011, 2015
  • Runs: 1532
  • 100s/50s: 5/7
  • Average/Strike Rate: 56.74/86.55

Kumar Sangakkara List of World Cup Hundreds

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4. Ricky Ponting (Australia) – 5

  • Matches/Innings: 46/42
  • WCs Played: 1996, 1999, 2003, 2007, 2011
  • Runs: 1743
  • 100s/50s: 5/6
  • Average/Strike Rate: 45.86/79.95

Ricky Ponting List of World Cup Hundreds

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5. David Warner (Australia) – 4

  • Matches/Innings: 18/18
  • WCs Played: 2015, 2019
  • Runs: 992
  • 100s/50s: 4/3
  • Average/Strike Rate: 62.00/98.12

David Warner List of World Cup Hundreds

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6. Sourav Ganguly (India) – 4

  • Matches/Innings: 21/21
  • WCs Played: 1999, 2003, 2007
  • Runs: 1006
  • 100s/50s: 4/3
  • Average/Strike Rate: 55.88/77.50

Sourav Ganguly List of World Cup Hundreds

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7. AB de Villiers (South Africa) – 4

  • Matches/Innings: 23/22
  • WCs Played: 2007, 2011, 2015
  • Runs: 1207
  • 100s/50s: 4/6
  • Average/Strike Rate: 63.52/117.29

AB De Villiers List of World Cup Hundreds

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8. Mark Waugh (Australia) – 4

  • Matches/Innings: 23/22
  • WCs Played: 1992, 1996, 1999
  • Runs: 1004
  • 100s/50s: 4/4
  • Average/Strike Rate: 52.84/83.73

Mark Waugh List of World Cup Hundreds

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9. Tillakaratne Dilshan (Sri Lanka) – 4

  • Matches/Innings: 27/25
  • WCs Played: 2007, 2011, 2015
  • Runs: 1112
  • 100s/50s: 4/4
  • Average/Strike Rate: 52.95/92.97

Tillakaratne Dilshan List of World Cup Hundreds

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10. Mahela Jayawardene (Sri Lanka) – 4

  • Matches/Innings: 40/34
  • WCs Played: 1999, 2003, 2007, 2011, 2015
  • Runs: 1100
  • 100s/50s: 4/5
  • Average/Strike Rate: 345.48/85.93

Mahela Jayawardene List of World Cup Hundreds

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Cricketers with 3 Centuries in the ODI World Cup: Joe Root, Aaron Finch, Matthew Hayden, Vivian Richards, Saeed Anwar, Sanath Jayasuriya

Final Thoughts

All of these players have etched their legacy in stone with hundreds in the ODI World Cup.

Can Rohit Sharma and David Warner add to the list? What about Virat Kohli, Joe Root, and Kane Williamson?

Will we see a new generation of cricketers like Babar Azam & Shubman Gill take over in the 2023 Cricket World Cup?

Only time will tell. Until then, let’s enjoy what we have.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who has scored the most centuries in ODI Cricket World Cup?

Rohit Sharma & Sachin Tendulkar have scored 5 hundreds in the ODI Cricket World Cup.Most Centuries in ODI Cricket World Cup. Pictures of cricketers celebrating their hundreds (from left to right): Ricky Ponting, Rohit Sharma, Sachin Tendulkar, Kumar Sangakkara, and David Warner

Which active cricketers have the most World Cup hundreds?

Rohit Sharma (6), David Warner (5), and Joe Root (3) are the active cricketers with most ODI World Cup centuries to their names.

How many World Cup centuries did Sachin Tendulkar hit?

Sachin Tendulkar hit 6 hundreds in the ODI Cricket World Cup – two in 1996, 1 in 1999, 1 in 2003, and two again in 2011.

© Copyright @Nitesh Mathur and Broken Cricket Dreams, LLC 2023. Originally published on 09/23/2023. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Broken Cricket Dreams with appropriate and specific direction to the original content (i.e. linked to the exact post/article).

Who Has Scored the Most Runs in ODI Cricket World Cups (Men’s)?| List of Top 21 Most Runs in Cricket World Cup (Updated 2023)

Can you name the batter with the most runs in Cricket World Cups?

It’s that time—The 2023 ODI World Cup is upon us!

So, let’s dive right in and explore the most prolific batters in men’s ODI Cricket World Cups (CWC). From Ross Taylor to Sachin Tendulkar, here are the most iconic batters to have played in the World Cup.

Table of Contents – Most Runs in Cricket World Cups

Key Takeaways

  • Sachin Tendulkar has scored the most runs in Cricket World Cups (Men’s ODI) with 2278 runs, 535 runs ahead of the next best, Ricky Ponting. Ponting (1743), Kumar Sangakkara (1532), Brian Lara (1225), and AB De Villiers (1207) are the others in the Top 5 list of the highest run scorers in ODI World Cups.
  • 21 cricketers have scored over 1,000 runs in ODI World Cups. Sri Lanka (5) features the most in this list followed by India, Australia, West Indies, South Africa (3), New Zealand (2), and Bangladesh & Pakistan (1).
  • Although most players have played over 30 ODIs, AB De Villiers is a class apart with 1207 runs in just 22 innings. He also boasts an average of 63.2 and a strike rate of 117.29.
  • Sachin Tendulkar has scored six hundreds in ODI Cricket World Cups followed by Ricky Ponting & Kumar Sangakkara with five each.
  • Shakib Al Hasan (#9), Virat Kohli (#17), Martin Guptill (#22), David Warner (#23), Rohit Sharma (#25), and Kane Williamson (#30) are the only active ODI players still playing international cricket.

ODI Cricket World Cup Batting Records: Top 21 List of Most Runs in Cricket World Cup (CWC)

1. Sachin Tendulkar (India) – 2278 Runs

  • Matches/Innings: 45/44
  • Best: 152
  • Average: 56.95
  • Strike Rate: 88.98
  • 100/50: 6/15

ODI World Cups Played: 1992, 1996, 1999, 2003, 2007, 2011

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Also Read:

2. Ricky Ponting (Australia) – 1743 Runs

  • Matches/Innings: 46/42
  • Best: 140*
  • Average: 45.86
  • Strike Rate: 79.95
  • 100/50: 5/6

ODI World Cups Played: 1996, 1999, 2003, 2007, 2011

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3. Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka) – 1532 Runs

  • Matches/Innings: 37/35
  • Best: 124
  • Average: 56.74
  • Strike Rate: 86.55
  • 100/50: 5/7

ODI World Cups Played: 2003, 2007, 2011, 2015

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4. Brian Lara (West Indies) – 1225 Runs

  • Matches/Innings: 34/33
  • Best: 116
  • Average: 42.24
  • Strike Rate: 86.25
  • 100/50: 2/7

ODI World Cups Played: 1992, 1996, 1999, 2003, 2007

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5. AB De Villiers (South Africa) – 1207 Runs

  • Matches/Innings: 23/22
  • Best: 162*
  • Average: 63.52
  • Strike Rate: 117.29
  • 100/50: 4/6

ODI World Cups Played: 2007, 2011, 2015

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6. Chris Gayle (West Indies) – 1186 Runs

  • Matches/Innings: 35/34
  • Best: 215
  • Average: 35.93
  • Strike Rate: 90.53
  • 100/50: 3/6

ODI World Cups Played: 2003, 2007, 2011, 2015, 2019

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7. Sanath Jayasuriya (Sri Lanka) – 1165 Runs

  • Matches/Innings: 38/37
  • Best: 120
  • Average: 34.26
  • Strike Rate: 90.66
  • 100/50: 3/6

ODI World Cups Played: 1992, 1996, 1999, 2003, 2007

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8. Jacques Kallis (South Africa) – 1148 Runs

  • Matches/Innings: 36/32
  • Best: 128*
  • Average: 45.92
  • Strike Rate: 74.40
  • 100s/50s: 1/9

ODI World Cups Played: 1996, 1999, 2003, 2007, 2011

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9. Shakib Al Hasan* (Bangladesh) – 1146 Runs

  • Matches/Innings: 29/29
  • Best: 124*
  • Average: 45.84
  • Strike Rate: 82.26
  • 100s/50s: 2/10

ODI World Cups Played: 2007, 2011, 2015, 2019

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10. Tillakaratne Dilshan (Sri Lanka) – 1112 Runs

  • Matches/Innings: 27/25
  • Best: 161*
  • Average: 52.95
  • Strike Rate: 92.97
  • 100s/50s: 4/4

ODI World Cups Played: 2007, 2011, 2015

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11. Mahela Jayawardene (Sri Lanka) – 1100 Runs

  • Matches/Innings: 40/34
  • Best: 115*
  • Average: 35.48
  • Strike Rate: 85.93
  • 100/50: 4/5

ODI World Cups Played: 1999, 2003, 2007, 2011, 2015

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12. Adam Gilchrist (Australia) – 1085 Runs

  • Matches/Innings: 31/31
  • Best: 149
  • Average: 36.36
  • Strike Rate: 98.01
  • 100/50: 1/8

ODI World Cups Played: 1999, 2003, 2007

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13. Javed Miandad (Pakistan) – 1083 Runs

  • Matches/Innings: 33/30
  • Best: 103
  • Average: 43.32
  • Strike Rate: 68.02
  • 100/50: 1/8

ODI World Cups Played: 1975, 1979, 1983, 1987, 1992, 1996

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14. Stephen Fleming (New Zealand) – 1075 Runs

  • Matches/Innings: 33/33
  • Best: 134*
  • Average: 35.83
  • Strike Rate: 76.89
  • 100/50: 2/5

ODI World Cups Played: 1996, 1999, 2003, 2007

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15. Herschelle Gibbs (South Africa) – 1067 Runs

  • Matches/Innings: 25/23
  • Best: 143
  • Average: 56.15
  • Strike Rate: 87.38
  • 100/50: 2/8

ODI World Cups Played: 1999, 2003, 2007

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16. Aravinda de Silva (Sri Lanka) – 1064 Runs

  • Matches/Innings: 35/32
  • Best: 145
  • Average: 36.68
  • Strike Rate: 86.57
  • 100/50: 2/6

ODI World Cups Played: 1987, 1992, 1996, 1999, 2003

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17. Virat Kohli* (India) – 1030 Runs

  • Matches/Innings: 26/26
  • Best: 107
  • Average: 46.81
  • Strike Rate: 86.70
  • 100/50: 2/6

ODI World Cups Played: 2011, 2015, 2019

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18. Sir Vivian Richards (West Indies) – 1013 Runs

  • Matches/Innings: 23/21
  • Best: 181
  • Average: 63.31
  • Strike Rate: 85.05
  • 100/50: 3/5

ODI World Cups Played: 1975, 1979, 1983, 1987

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19. Sourav Ganguly (India) – 1006 Runs

  • Matches/Innings: 21/21
  • Best: 183
  • Average: 55.88
  • Strike Rate: 77.50
  • 100/50: 4/3

ODI World Cups Played: 1999, 2003, 2007

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20. Mark Waugh (Australia) – 1004 Runs

  • Matches/Innings: 22/22
  • Best: 130
  • Average: 52.84
  • Strike Rate: 83.73
  • 100/50: 4/4

ODI World Cups Played: 1992, 1996, 1999

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21. Ross Taylor (New Zealand) – 1002 Runs

  • Matches/Innings: 33/30
  • Best: 131*
  • Average: 37.11
  • Strike Rate: 74.00
  • 100/50: 1/6

ODI World Cups Played: 2007, 2011, 2015, 2019

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Honorable Mentions: Martin Guptill* (995), David Warner* (992), Matthew Hayden (987), Rohit Sharma* (978), Shivnarine Chanderpaul (970), Arjuna Ranatunga (969), Faf du Plessis (926), Saeed Anwar (915), Kane Williamson* (911)

Final Thoughts on the Most Prolific Run Scorers in ODI World Cup History

Ah, the joys of ODI Cricket World Cup!

Every four years, the cricketing world descends into a frenzy of excitement and anticipation.

Which batsman will light up the 2023 ODI World Cup? Can Shakib Al Hasan & Virat Kohli rise to the Top 5? Comment below, we would love to know your thoughts!

Also Read: 155 Greatest Cricketers of All Time (Men’s): Who Is the King of Cricket? (Updated 2023)

Most Runs in Cricket World Cup – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Who has scored the most runs in World Cup cricket?

Sachin Tendulkar has scored the most runs in Cricket World Cups (Men’s ODI) with 2278 runs, 535 runs ahead of the next best, Ricky Ponting. Ponting (1743), Kumar Sangakkara (1532), Brian Lara (1225), and AB De Villiers (1207) are the others in the Top 5 list of the highest run scorers in ODI World Cups.

2. Which country has scored the most runs in world cup cricket?

21 cricketers have scored over 1,000 runs in ODI World Cups. Sri Lanka (5) features the most in this list followed by India, Australia, West Indies, South Africa (3), New Zealand (2), and Bangladesh (1).

3. Who has scored the most runs for India in ODI World Cups?

Sachin Tendulkar (2278), Virat Kohli (1030), and Sourav Ganguly (1006) have scored the most runs for India in ODI cricket world cups.

© Copyright @Nitesh Mathur and Broken Cricket Dreams, LLC 2023. Originally published on 08/07/2023. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Broken Cricket Dreams with appropriate and specific direction to the original content (i.e. linked to the exact post/article).

Most Centuries in International Cricket Across Formats: Can Virat Kohli Break Sachin Tendulkar’s Record of Hundred 100s?

Who has the most centuries in international cricket across formats?

Sachin Tendulkar (100), Virat Kohli (75), and Ricky Ponting (71) have the most centuries in international cricket across formats.

In cricket, the scoring a century is the landmark achievement that separates the good from the greats. In this brief overview, we’ll look into the top 10 cricketers with the most centuries across formats.

But here’s the real kicker: Can Virat Kohli break Sachin Tendulkar’s hundreds record? Let’s dive in and explore.

Also Read: Can Joe Root Break Tendulkar’s Run Record?, Sachin Tendulkar Hundred 100s: A Complete Guide, Virat Kohli Best Innings Across Formats, Most Runs in Test Cricket, Most Centuries in Test Cricket

Key Takeaways

  • India – 3 (Tendulkar, Kohli, Dhoni), South Africa – 3 (Kallis, Amla, AB De Villers), and Sri Lanka – 2 (Kumar Sangakkara, Mahela Jayawardene) feature the most in this list.
  • Virat Kohli scores a century quicker than anyone else in the list (a century every 7.42 innings) followed by Sachin Tendulkar (7.82) and Hashim Amla (7.95).
  • Sachin Tendulkar (34357), Kumar Sangakkara (28016), and Ricky Ponting (27483) have scored the most runs along with their centuries while Hashim Amla (18672) and AB De Villiers (20014) have the least number of runs in this list.
  • Sachin Tendulkar (264), Ricky Ponting (217), and Kumar Sangakkara (216) have scored the most 50+ scores across formats.
  • Among the Fab Four Virat Kohli (75) leads the charge with Joe Root (46), Steve Smith (44), and Kane Williamson (41) bunched close together to each other. David Warner (45) and Rohit Sharma (43) are the other active players in the Top 21 list of most centuries list.

Cricket Batting Records (Test + ODI + T20I): Top 10 List of Most Century Makers Across Formats

The 100s/Innings is calculated by the number of innings played across formats divided by the number of international centuries. Be careful though, this number might be slightly skewed. For example, Sachin Tendulkar’s ratio is 7.82 innings per hundred, while Kohli’s ratio is 7.42 innings per century.

Sounds pretty close, right? However, if we dissect this further, Virat Kohli has 74 centuries in 450 Tests/ODIs at an absurd average of 6.08 innings per hundred. Since he has played more T20Is (107 innings) than others, his overall ratio is closer to Tendulkar.

Note: * denotes players that are still active in international cricket.

1. Sachin Tendulkar (100 – 51 Tests/49 ODIs), India

  • Matches/Innings: 664/782
  • 100s/Innings: 7.82 (One Hundred scored every 7-9 innings across format)
  • Total 50+ Scores: 264 (100 – 100s, 164 – 50s)
  • Total Runs: 34357
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2. Virat Kohli* (75 – 28 Tests, 46 ODIs, 1 T20I), India

  • Matches/Innings: 498/557
  • 100s/Innings: 7.43
  • Total 50+ Scores: 205 (75 – 100s, 130 – 50s)
  • Total Runs: 25385
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3. Ricky Ponting (71 – 41 Tests, 30 ODIs), Australia

  • Matches/Innings: 560/668
  • 100s/Innings: 9.41
  • Total 50+ Scores: 217 (71 – 100s, 146 – 50s)
  • Total Runs: 27483
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4. Kumar Sangakkara (63 – 38 Tests, 25 ODIs), Sri Lanka

  • Matches/Innings: 594/666
  • 100s/Innings: 10.57
  • Total 50+ Scores: 216 (63 – 100s, 153 – 50s)
  • Total Runs: 28016
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5. Jacques Kallis (62 – 45 Tests, 17 ODIs), South Africa

  • Matches/Innings: 519/617
  • 100s/Innings: 9.95
  • Total 50+ Scores: 211 (62 – 100s, 149 – 50s)
  • Total Runs: 25534
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6. Hashim Amla (55 – 28 ODIs, 27 ODIs), South Africa

  • Matches/Innings: 349/437
  • 100s/Innings: 7.95
  • Total 50+ Scores: 143 (55 – 100s, 88 – 50s)
  • Total Runs: 18672
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7. Mahela Jayawardene (54 – 34 Tests, 19 ODIs, 1 T20I), Sri Lanka

  • Matches/Innings: 652/725
  • 100s/Innings: 13.43
  • Total 50+ Scores: 190 (54 – 100s, 136 – 50s)
  • Total Runs: 25957
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8. Brian Lara (53 – 34 Tests, 19 ODIs), West Indies

  • Matches/Innings: 430/521
  • 100s/Innings: 9.83
  • Total 50+ Scores: 164 (53 – 100s, 111 – 50s)
  • Total Runs: 22358
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9. Rahul Dravid (48 – 36 Tests, 12 ODIs), India

  • Matches/Innings: 509/605
  • 100s/Innings: 12.60
  • Total 50+ Scores: 194 (48 – 100s, 146 – 50s)
  • Total Runs: 24208
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10. AB De Villiers (47 – 22 Tests, 25 ODIs), South Africa

  • Matches/Innings: 420/484
  • 100s/Innings: 10.30
  • Total 50+ Scores: 156 (47 – 100s, 109 – 50s)
  • Total Runs: 20014
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Most Centuries in International Cricket: #11-21

Here are the honorable mentions. These players all have scored 40 or more centuries in international cricket.

RankCountryPlayer (Hundreds)Matches/Innings100s/InningsRuns50+ Scores
11EnglandJoe Root* (46)322/4199.1118296145 (46 – 100s, 99 – 50s)
12AustraliaDavid Warner* (45)347/4329.617262131 (45 -100s, 86 – 50s)
13AustraliaSteve Smith* (44)304/352815060114 (44 – 100s, 70 – 50s)
14IndiaRohit Sharma* (43)441/46110.7217115134 (43 – 100s, 91 – 50s)
15West IndiesChris Gayle (42)483/55113.1219593147 (42 – 100s, 105 – 50s)
16Sri LankaSanath Jayasuriya (42)586/65115.521032145 (42 – 100s, 103 – 50s)
17New ZealandKane Williamson* (41)342/4029.8017142133 (41 – 100s, 92 – 50s)
18PakistanYounis Khan (41)408/49111.9617790124 (41 – 100s, 83 – 50s)
19West IndiesShivnarine Chanderpaul (41)454/55313.4920988166 (41 – 100s, 125 – 50s)
20AustraliaMatthew Hayden (40)273/3488.4915066109 (40 -100s, 69 – 50s)
21New ZealandRoss Taylor (40) 450/51012.7518199133 (40 -100s, 93 – 50s)

Can Virat Kohli Break Sachin Tendulkar’s Record of Hundreds?

Yes, Virat Kohli can break Sachin Tendulkar’s record of most hundreds in cricket, given that he continues playing for a couple more years.

Currently, Virat Kohli is 25 short of Sachin Tendulkar’s world record, but he has also played 225 less innings. At Virat Kohli’s rate of one century every 7.43 innings, Virat Kohli can break Tendulkar’s hundred 100s record if he plays about 186 more innings.

Stas are just there to support the overarching idea, but Kohli looks refreshed since Asia Cup 2022 after three-year drought. He is back at his best with centuries in each format (as well as the IPL). One thing to consider though is overkill in cricket. On the other hand, Virat Kohli might go the AB De Villiers route and retire early due to way too much cricket.

Final Thoughts

These top 10 cricketers have left a significant impact on the sport with their exceptional performances and numerous centuries. Their contributions to the game command respect and admiration.

Now, all eyes will be on Virat Kohli.

We eagerly watch as his journey comes to an end in the next few years, with a question on everyone’s mind: Will he surpass Sachin Tendulkar’s monumental record, what do you say?

Frequently Asked Questions

Who has scored the most centuries in international cricket?

Sachin Tendulkar has the most centuries in international cricket (100). He has scored 51 centuries in Test cricket as well as 49 centuries in ODI cricket.

Which Indian cricketer has the most centuries in international cricket?

Sachin Tendulkar (100), Virat Kohli (75), and Rahul Dravid (48) have the most centuries in international cricket for India across formats.

Which team has the most centuries in international cricket?

India – 3 (Tendulkar, Kohli, Dhoni), South Africa – 3 (Kallis, Amla, AB De Villers), and Sri Lanka – 2 (Kumar Sangakkara, Mahela Jayawardene) are in the top of the list for the most centuries in international cricket.

© Copyright @Nitesh Mathur and Broken Cricket Dreams, LLC 2023. Originally published on 07/03/2023. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Broken Cricket Dreams with appropriate and specific direction to the original content (i.e. linked to the exact post/article).

Fantasy Cricket – Commentators XI

“How is the food in Dubai?” asks Kumar Sangakkara. Mahela responds, “Limited but enjoyable.”

Oh yeah? Because it shows.” (Laughs all around). After a brief pause, Mahela responds, “Well, I thought he was a proper commentator, but obviously he is not…”

I just love this banter between these two legends and friends.

Kumar Sangakkara’s addition in IPL 2020 has been a breath of fresh air in the commentary box, although he replaced an unusually enthusiastic Kevin Pietersen earlier in the tournament.

This gave me an idea. Why not make a Fantasy Cricket team from the commentators in IPL 2020?

We have all played fantasy cricket or picked our All-Time World XI before. Today let us jump out of our comfort zones and do something slightly more creative – IPL 2020 Commentators XI.

Today’s Twist – Fantasy Cricket

Build two teams from IPL 2020 commentators such that (1) is a team made up of any commentators whatsoever, and (2 ) consists of only ex-cricket players.

Here are some additional rules:

  • By IPL rules, each team can field a maximum of 4 foreign players.
  • Pick from the list of commentators stated at the end of the article below.
  • The team should actually be able to field with 1 keeper and 5 bowling options necessary.

The Catch

What do you look for from a commentator? Serious analysis, insightful in-game interviews, or hilarious banter? I like a combination of all of them.

A little bit of analysis, a tinge of entertainment, and of course, a drop of controversy.

Well here are my teams. What about you? Comment below with your FAVORITE COMMENTATORS.

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IPL 2020 Commentators XI

Just Imagine what role these commentators would play on the cricket field. Take creative license with this. Also Note: The 4 foreign players are in bold.

  1. Aakash ChopraDefensive opener, aggressive commentator. Love the phrases. #Aakashvani
  2. Gaurav Kapur Complimentary youthful enthusiasm for the opening partnership. Also BWC.
  3. Alexis Nunes A West Indian at No. 3 is a necessity. Best Mute Me/ PoliteEnquiries host?
  4. Harsha Bhogle (C) Need solidity in the middle order. Moments like these makes Harsha special.
  5. Lisa SthalekarWorld Cup winning captain at #5. Brings experience and analysis to the table.
  6. Gautam Bhimani – Need a transition or a finishing argument? No better than Bhimani, the finisher.
  7. Deep Dasgupta (WK) One of the better analysts at ESPNCricinfo and the keeper in our team.
  8. Ajit Agarkar – Same as above for the analysis but also a Lord’s ton and some wickets too.
  9. Joy Bhattacharjya – The ‘mystery spinner’ in our team. At times, calculative. If the spin does not bamboozle you, Joy Factor definitely will.
  10. Simon Doull – “Field your best XI on the field. Not your most expensive XI.” Cough, cough KXIP.
  11. Pommie Mbangwa Always has a smile. Accurate analysis. A fast bowler in his heyday.

12th Man: Shaun Pollock. – Slowing swinging his way to the commentary box.

Ex-Players XI

  1. Virender Sehwag – “Some CSK batsman thinks it is a government’s job”
  2. Sunil Gavaskar
  3. Kumar Sangakkara (WK)
  4. Kevin Pietersen Here is a day in KP’s life at IPL 2020.
  5. Anjum Chopra (C)
  6. Tom Moody Has some good views about Super Overs.
  7. Ajay Jadeja
  8. Irfan Pathan
  9. L. Sivaramakrishnan
  10. Ian BishopRemember his name? Has the best analysis in world cricket right now in my opinion.
  11. Murali Karthik
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The List

The full list of IPL commentators were as follows:

  • India: Harsha Bhogle, Deep Dasgupta, Rohan Gavaskar, L. Sivaramakrishnan, Murali Karthik, Sunil Gavaskar, Anjum Chopra, Aakash Chopra, Irfan Pathan, Gautam Gambhir, Ashish Nehra, Nikhil Chopra, Sandeep Patil, Sanjay Bangar, Ajit Agarkar, Kiran More
  • New Zealand: Simon Doull, Danny Morrison
  • West Indies: Ian Bishop, Darren Ganga
  • Australia: Michael Slater, Lisa Sthalekar
  • Zimbabwe: Pommie Mbangwa
  • England: Kevin Pietersen, Mark Nicholas
  • Sri Lanka: Kumar Sangakkara
  • South Africa: JP Duminy
  • Cricbuzz Live Panel: Gaurav Kapur, Ajay Jadeja, Gautam Bhimani, Joy Bhattacharjya, Shaun Pollock, Michael Vaughan, Arjun Pandit, Manoj Tiwary, Virender Sehwag
  • Cricinfo Panel: Raunak Kapoor, Tom Moody, Alexis Nunes, Sanjay Manjrekar
  • *Star Sports Dugout: Graeme Swann, Brett Lee, Brian Lara, Scott Styris, Dean Jones

*I did not choose from this list because did not have enough sample size of listening to Star Sports commentary, but you are free to do so.

So from this list, who makes it in YOUR COMMENTATORS XI? COMMENT BELOW AND LET US KNOW! Do check out our other World XI with Twists Articles here, follow our social media pages, and share the article ahead!

Sources: ESPNCricinfo, CricbuzzLive, IPLT20.com, List of Commentators

Image Courtesy: Kevin PietersenTourism Victoria from Australia, CC BY 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons