Reaching 5000 runs in ODIs is a major milestone for any batter, but achieving it faster than others proves unmatched skill and consistency. This article ranks the Top 10 Fastest to 5000 Runs in ODI history, featuring icons like Babar Azam, Virat Kohli, and more. Each player is described in detail, and their records are broken down in a stats table. The journey of these elite run-scorers will fascinate every cricket fan.
List of Top 10 Fastest to 5000 Runs in ODI Cricket
10. Shikhar Dhawan
Shikhar Dhawan, famously known as “Gabbar” of Indian cricket, was a consistent performer at the top of the order. Known for his explosive starts and calm temperament in big matches, Dhawan became one of the Fastest to 5000 Runs in ODI history. His strong performances in ICC events and against top teams helped him reach this mark in only 118 innings.
Though Dhawan made his debut in 2010, it took him a few years to become a regular, and once he settled, he scored heavily. His fearless attitude made him one of India’s most reliable openers in white-ball cricket.
| Player Name | Matches Played | ODI Debut | Opposition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shikhar Dhawan | 119 | 20 Oct 2010 | New Zealand |
9. Brian Lara
Brian Lara was elegance personified on a cricket field. A legend of West Indies cricket, Lara is remembered for his stroke-making, wristy flicks, and game-changing knocks. It’s no surprise that he ranks among the Fastest to 5000 Runs in ODI, having achieved the milestone in 118 innings.
Lara’s calmness under pressure, combined with his ability to accelerate in the final overs, made him an ODI star. He often carried the West Indies batting on his shoulders during the 90s.
| Player Name | Matches Played | ODI Debut | Opposition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brian Lara | 120 | 9 Nov 1990 | South Africa |
8. Quinton de Kock
Quinton de Kock, a wicketkeeper-batter from South Africa, stormed onto the ODI scene with aggressive starts. He made a name for himself by scoring quick centuries and giving his team fast starts. He reached the landmark as one of the Fastest to 5000 Runs in ODI history, needing just 116 innings.
His fearless approach and ability to dominate both spin and pace made him a nightmare for bowlers. De Kock’s consistency, especially in bilateral series, helped him climb up the ranks rapidly.
| Player Name | Matches Played | ODI Debut | Opposition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Quinton de Kock | 116 | 19 Jan 2013 | England |
7. Joe Root
Joe Root, known for his classic batting style, is England’s most consistent batter in ODIs. He brought stability to the English middle order and scored fluently without taking many risks. Root’s ability to rotate strike and play long innings helped him become one of the Fastest to 5000 Runs in ODI format.
Root may not be as explosive as others, but his intelligence and composure make him a great ODI batter. He has been a pillar of England’s success in the format since 2013.
| Player Name | Matches Played | ODI Debut | Opposition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Joe Root | 122 | 11 Jan 2013 | West Indies |
6. David Warner
David Warner has been Australia’s most dangerous batter in modern-day ODIs. Known for his attacking mindset, Warner frequently dominated the powerplay and played match-winning knocks. He reached the 5000-run milestone in 115 innings, making him one of the Fastest to 5000 Runs in ODI cricket.
Warner’s fitness, intensity, and bold strokeplay allowed him to maintain a high strike rate without sacrificing consistency, which played a crucial role in making him one of the Fastest to 5000 Runs in ODI. His success across conditions proves his class and adaptability in ODIs, further highlighting why he’s among the Fastest to 5000 Runs in ODI.
| Player Name | Matches Played | ODI Debut | Opposition |
|---|---|---|---|
| David Warner | 117 | 18 Jan 2009 | India |
5. Shai Hope
Shai Hope has quietly become one of West Indies’ most reliable run-scorers. With a calm head and elegant shots, Hope has provided stability at the top. He recently became one of the Fastest to 5000 Runs in ODI, taking just 114 innings.
Hope is known for anchoring innings and scoring big in pressure situations. His ability to bat through the innings and handle different match conditions has made him an essential player in the Windies setup.
| Player Name | Matches Played | ODI Debut | Opposition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shai Hope | 119 | 16 Nov 2016 | England |
4. Virat Kohli
Virat Kohli has redefined chasing in ODI cricket. With unmatched intensity, hunger, and fitness, Kohli became a run machine for India. He reached 5000 ODI runs in just 114 innings, putting him among the Fastest to 5000 Runs in ODI history.
Kohli is known for his passion, calculated aggression, and ability to win games single-handedly. His century conversion rate and consistency under pressure make him one of the best ODI batters ever.
| Player Name | Matches Played | ODI Debut | Opposition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virat Kohli | 120 | 18 Aug 2008 | West Indies |
3. Sir Vivian Richards
Sir Vivian Richards was not just a batter; he was a force of nature. His fearless batting style changed the way ODIs were played. Reaching 5000 runs in just 114 innings during the 70s and 80s shows why he’s a legend. He ranks high in the list of Fastest to 5000 Runs in ODI.
Viv played with unmatched swagger and confidence. Despite playing in an era with fewer ODIs and tougher pitches, his record remains outstanding even today.
| Player Name | Matches Played | ODI Debut | Opposition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vivian Richards | 126 | 7 Jun 1975 | England |
2. Hashim Amla
Hashim Amla was grace and class combined. Without playing aggressively, Amla consistently piled up runs at a steady pace. He reached 5000 runs in just 101 innings, becoming one of the Fastest to 5000 Runs in ODI.
Amla’s calm presence at the crease and his ability to build innings helped South Africa dominate in the early 2010s. He avoided unnecessary shots and relied on timing and placement.
| Player Name | Matches Played | ODI Debut | Opposition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hashim Amla | 104 | 9 Mar 2008 | West Indies |
1. Babar Azam
At the top of the list is Pakistan’s batting maestro Babar Azam. He is officially the Fastest to 5000 Runs in ODI, reaching the landmark in just 97 innings. With his elegant drives, solid technique, and hunger for runs, Babar has become a symbol of modern-day consistency.
Babar’s journey since debuting in 2015 has been remarkable. His calm mind, leadership qualities, and ability to perform in all conditions make him a true champion. He leads this elite list with pride.
| Player Name | Matches Played | ODI Debut | Opposition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Babar Azam | 99 | 31 May 2015 | New Zealand |
READ MORE:
- Top 10 Most Wickets by a Bowling Pairs in Test Cricket: Legendary Duos
- Top 10 Legends with the Most 5 Wicket Hauls in ODI History
FAQ
Q1. Who is the fastest player to reach 5000 runs in ODIs?
A1. Babar Azam of Pakistan is the fastest, reaching 5000 ODI runs in just 97 innings.
Q2. Who was the first player to reach 5000 ODI runs quickly?
A2. Sir Vivian Richards achieved it in 114 innings, which was a record during his era.
Q3. How many Indian players are in the top 10 fastest to 5000 ODI runs?
A3. Two Indian players Virat Kohli and Shikhar Dhawan are on the list.
Q4. Which South African player reached 5000 ODI runs fastest?
A4. Hashim Amla is the fastest South African to do so, in 101 innings.
Q5. Does hitting 5000 runs quickly mean a player is consistent?
A5. Yes, reaching 5000 runs fast shows high levels of consistency and skill in scoring runs.
