Top Run-Scorers in Asia Cup (ODI Format)


image-ljmweqa7Virat Kohli with Pakistan's Mohammad Nawaz during Asia Cup 2022 (Twitter)

The much-anticipated 16th edition of the Asia Cup is set to grace the cricketing world in 2023 with a dazzling One Day Internationals (ODIs) display. Co-hosted by two cricket-loving nations, Pakistan and Sri Lanka, this tournament promises to be a captivating spectacle for fans worldwide. The tournament, scheduled in August and September, will witness six formidable teams battling it out for supremacy on the grand stage.

This edition holds a special significance as it marks the first-ever Asia Cup to be jointly hosted by multiple countries, adding an extra layer of excitement and camaraderie to the proceedings. Pakistan and Sri Lanka, known for their passionate fan bases and picturesque cricketing venues, will play host to an extraordinary cricketing extravaganza.

With the defending champions Sri Lanka showcasing their title-winning prowess in the previous edition, the competition is set to reach new heights of intensity and thrill. Teams across Asia will lock horns, leaving no stone unturned in their quest for cricketing glory.

In this eagerly awaited tournament, we've witnessed a plethora of prolific performers, who truly deserve our attention. Let's delve into a few legendary batters, who have left us spellbound through their incredible returns in the marquee event. 


Top 10 Run-Scorers in Asia Cup History

1.Sanath Jayasuriya, 1220 runs (1990- 2008)

image-ljmwgombJayasuriya is regarded as the greatest opener from the Island nation (Twitter)

Sanath Jayasuriya, the renowned Sri Lankan cricketer, has etched his name in the annals of Asia Cup history as the undisputed record holder for the most runs. His remarkable achievements on the field have positioned him atop this prestigious leaderboard, showcasing his exceptional talent and prowess.

Jayasuriya's captivating performances have left an indelible mark, solidifying his status as a true cricketing legend in the realm of the Asia Cup. Jayasuriya scored 1220 runs with an average of 53.04 and a best figure of 130.


2. Kumar Sangakkara, 1075 runs (2004- 2014)

image-ljmwitnxSangakkara was one of the exceptional players of his time (Twitter)

In the exhilarating battleground of the Asia Cup, Kumar Sangakkara left a blazing trail of glory. Across 24 matches between 2004 and 2014, his bat danced with elegance and power, amassing a stunning 1075 runs at an awe-inspiring average of 48.86. Sangakkara's artistry knew no bounds as his every stroke was a symphony, leaving spectators awestruck. 


3. Sachin Tendulkar, 971 runs (1990- 2012)

image-ljmwkzyhTendulkar is regarded as the best batter of all time (Twitter)

The legendary Sachin Tendulkar ranks third in Asia Cup all-time run-scorers. From 1990 to 2012, he amassed a staggering 971 runs in 23 matches as an opening batter, averaging 51.10 with a formidable strike rate of 85.47.

Notably, Tendulkar's standout performance came in the 1995 edition, where he emerged as the highest run-getter with an exceptional tally of 205 runs in just four matches, boasting an average of 68.33 and a blazing strike rate of 109.62.


4. Shoaib Malik, 786 runs (2000- 2018)

image-ljmwqouwShoaib Malik in action (Twitter)

Shoaib Malik, the former captain of Pakistan, joins the charts as the leading run-scorer in the prestigious Asia Cup. His magnificent bat wielded magic, accumulating an astounding 786 runs in just 17 Asia Cup matches. 

With an awe-inspiring average of 65.50 and a blistering strike rate of 90.65, Malik's performances were nothing short of sensational. He etched his name in history with three glorious centuries and three remarkable half-centuries, leaving an indelible impact on the grand tapestry of the Asia Cup.


5. Rohit Sharma, 745 runs (2008- 2018)

image-ljmzemkmRohit Sharma has been a legend for India in ODIs (Twitter)

The charismatic captain of the Indian cricket team, Rohit Sharma, proudly secures the fifth spot on the illustrious list. With his impeccable performance, he has amassed an impressive tally of 745 runs in 22 matches, showcasing an exceptional average of 46.56 and a striking strike rate of 84.94. 

As a testament to his brilliance, he has notched up a remarkable century and an astounding six fifties in his memorable outings during the Asia Cup matches.


6. Arjuna Ranatunga, 741 runs (1984- 1997)

image-ljnz3sceArjuna Ranatunga led SL to WC title in 1996 (Twitter)

Arjuna Ranatunga, the legendary Sri Lankan captain, secures a prominent position at number 6 on the list. With a remarkable total of 741 runs in 19 Asia Cup innings, Ranatunga boasts an outstanding average of 57, with his highest score being an unbeaten 131*.

He played an instrumental role in leading the Sri Lankan teams to victory in the 1986 and 1997 Asia Cups, delivering exceptional performances in both finals. 


7. Mushfiqur Rahim, 699 runs (2008-2018)

image-ljmzlm17Rahim has been a prolific performer for Bangladesh (Twitter)

Mushfiqur Rahim, the maestro of the willow, has left cricket enthusiasts awe-struck with his remarkable performances on the pitch. Over a span of ten years, from 2008 to 2018, he amassed an astounding total of 699 runs in just 21 matches of Asia Cup. 

A true embodiment of consistency and skill, Rahim showcased his unwavering dedication as he averaged an impressive 36.78, illuminating the scoreboards with his every stroke.


8. Mahela Jayawardene, 674 runs (2000-2014)

image-ljnyohweJayawardene is Sri Lanka's third highest run-getter in ODIs (Twitter)

Mahela Jayawardene, the cricket maestro from Sri Lanka, has left an indelible mark on the game with his incredible batting prowess. With a record from 2000 to 2014 in Asia Cup, he amassed an impressive total of 674 runs, showcasing his exceptional skill and determination at the crease. 

Averaging at 29.30, Jayawardene's elegant stroke play and impeccable timing enthralled cricket enthusiasts worldwide. His remarkable strike rate of 87 reflected his ability to dominate the opposition's bowling attack with finesse and aggression.


9. MS Dhoni, 648 runs (2008- 2018)

image-ljnyrc8wDhoni is India's most successful in the ODI format (Twitter)

In the realm of cricket, there exists a name that echoes with brilliance and unrivalled prowess - MS Dhoni. Over the span of a decade, in Asia Cup from 2008 to 2018, he etched his mark in the annals of cricketing history, amassing a staggering 648 runs with an unbeaten 109* runs in the Asia Cup. Averaging a remarkable 64.80, his bat weaved a symphony of precision and power, leaving spectators awestruck.


10. Aravinda de Silva, 645 runs (1984- 2000)

image-ljnyurm1Aravinda de Silva held Sri Lanka's batting during 1996 WC triumph (Twitter)

Aravinda de Silva, a legend of cricket, showcased his unparalleled skills and determination during his illustrious career spanning from 1984 to 2000. With a remarkable total of 645 runs in 24 matches with an unbeaten 96* runs, he astounded fans worldwide with his consistent performance in the prestigious Asia Cup. 

Maintaining an impressive average of 32.25 and a formidable strike rate of 83.44, de Silva's bat wielded magic, crafting an awe-inspiring tapestry of runs.