Fastest 12000 Runs in ODI
In the history of ODI cricket, only six batsmen have scored 12000 runs. They are Virat Kohli (India), Sachin Tendulkar(India), Ricky Ponting (Australia), Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka), Sanath Jayasuriya (Sri Lanka), and Mahela Jayawardene (Sri Lanka).
Virat Kohli of India holds the record for the fastest 12000 runs in ODIs. He achieved this milestone in 251 matches and 242 innings. Sachin Tendulkar previously held the record for the fastest to 12,000 runs, reaching it in 300 innings.
Fastest to Reach 12000 Runs in ODI | Top 5 Batsmen
Here is a detailed overview of the top 5 fastest batsmen to score 12000 runs in cricket history:
5. Sanath Jayasuriya (Sri Lanka)
Sanath Jayasuriya made 12000 runs in ODI cricket in 17 years and 123 days. He took 390 matches and 379 innings to achieve this milestone against Australia in Bridgetown on 28th April 2007.
Jayasuriya is often credited with revolutionizing ODI batting by introducing a more aggressive approach. His explosive stroke-making, particularly early in the innings, put bowlers under pressure and changed the way the game was played.
His 48-ball century against Pakistan in 1996 remains the fastest ODI century ever scored by a Sri Lankan batsman and stood as the fastest in the world for several years.
Jayasuriya wasn’t just a prolific run-scorer; he was also a dangerous left-arm spinner, adding another dimension to his value. In fact, he is the most successful left-arm spinner in ODI history with 323 wickets to his name.
4. Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka)
Kumar Sangakkara reached 12000 ODI runs in 359 matches and 336 innings and he took 13 years and 168 days to achieve this milestone against Pakistan in Dubai on 20th December 2013.
Sangakkara’s impact extended beyond mere numbers. His elegant left-handed batting was a joy to watch, combining technical finesse with power hitting.
He was also a reliable wicketkeeper and a valuable team player, contributing significantly to Sri Lanka’s success throughout his career.
3. Ricky Ponting (Australia)
Ricky Ponting scored 12000 ODI runs in 14 years and 229 days, playing 323 matches and 314 innings. Ponting wasn’t just consistent; he was also a dominant force in ODI cricket during his peak years.
His aggressive batting style often put the opposition under pressure and helped Australia win crucial matches.
While Sachin Tendulkar reached 12,000 runs faster (300 innings), Ponting’s achievement is equally impressive considering his higher strike rate and more dominant batting style.
2. Sachin Tendulkar (India)
Sachin Tendulkar made 12000 runs in ODI cricket in 309 matches and 300 innings and he took 13 years and 73 days to achieve this milestone against Pakistan in Centurion on 1st March 2003.
Reaching this milestone in 309 matches and 300 innings, taking 13 years and 73 days, solidified his position as one of the greatest batsmen the game had ever seen.
Tendulkar’s average of 44.83 at the time of reaching 12,000 runs was exceptional, showcasing his ability to score consistently across different conditions and against various bowling attacks.
His achievement inspired a generation of young cricketers, particularly in India, and helped elevate the popularity of the ODI format.
1. Virat Kohli (India)
Virat Kohli is the fastest batsman to score 12000 runs in ODI cricket. Virat Kohli reached 12000 ODI runs in just 251 matches and 242 innings. He took 12 years and 106 days to achieve this milestone against Australia in Canberra on 2nd December 2020.
Kohli not only reached the milestone quickly, but he did so with a remarkable average of nearly 60 runs per innings, showcasing his consistent performance at the highest level.
While the numbers are impressive, it is important to remember that Kohli’s achievement extends beyond just statistics. He is considered one of the greatest modern-day batsmen, admired for his technical skills, aggressive style, and mental strength.
His record-breaking feat serves as an inspiration to aspiring cricketers and cements his place as a legend in the sport.
List of the Top 6 Batsmen with Fastest to 12000 Runs in ODI
| Sr. No. | Player | Debut | Time | Matches | Innings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Virat Kohli (IND) | 18-Aug-08 | 12y 106d | 251 | 242 |
| 2 | Sachin Tendulkar (IND) | 18-Dec-89 | 13y 73d | 309 | 300 |
| 3 | Ricky Ponting (AUS) | 15-Feb-95 | 14y 229d | 323 | 314 |
| 4 | Kumar Sangakkara (SL) | 5-Jul-00 | 13y 168d | 359 | 336 |
| 5 | Sanath Jayasuriya (SL) | 26-Dec-89 | 17y 123d | 390 | 379 |
| 6 | Mahela Jayawardene (SL) | 24-Jan-98 | 16y 289d | 426 | 399 |
