The batsman with the most runs as a captain in One Day Internationals (ODIs) was Ricky Ponting from Australia has been one of the most successful and prolific run-scorers in ODIs as a captain for the Australian cricket team. 

Here is the information about the top five batsmen with the most runs as captains in One Day Internationals (ODIs). Here's the information:

1. Ricky Ponting (Australia):

Ricky Ponting, one of the most successful cricket captains in history, tops the list of batsmen with the most runs as an ODI captain. He captained the Australian national team from 2002 to 2012. Ponting's leadership coincided with Australia's dominance in international cricket. He was known for his aggressive and tactical captaincy.

As a captain, Ricky Ponting scored a total of 8,569 runs in 230 innings at an average of 42.63. His highest score as a captain was 164 not out. Ponting's prolific batting performances helped Australia win multiple ODI tournaments during his tenure.


2. Mahela Jayawardene (Sri Lanka):

Mahela Jayawardene, a stylish right-handed batsman from Sri Lanka, had a successful stint as the ODI captain of his national team. He served as captain from 2004 to 2013. Jayawardene was known for his elegant stroke play and calm demeanor on the field.

During his captaincy, Mahela Jayawardene accumulated 7,971 runs in 179 innings at an average of 45.64. He registered 17 centuries as captain, with a highest score of 144. Jayawardene played a key role in guiding Sri Lanka to several ODI victories during his leadership.

3. Virat Kohli (India):

Virat Kohli, the modern-day batting sensation and former captain of the Indian cricket team, is known for his aggressive and passionate style of play. He took over the captaincy in ODIs in 2013 and held the position till 2022. Kohli is regarded as one of the best ODI batsmen of his generation.
As an ODI captain, Virat Kohli scored 5,457 runs in 95 innings at an impressive average of 73.55. He recorded 20 centuries, including a highest score of 183. Kohli's leadership saw India achieve numerous ODI victories, and he set several records along the way.

MS Dhoni (India):

Runs as Captain: Over 6,000 runs

MS Dhoni is considered one of the most successful captains in the history of ODI cricket. He led India to numerous victories, including the 2007 ICC World Twenty20 and the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup.

  • Captaincy Tenure: MS Dhoni served as the captain of the Indian cricket team in ODIs from September 14, 2007, until January 4, 2017.
  • ODI Matches as Captain: He led the Indian cricket team in 199 ODI matches during his tenure as captain.

Achievements: Under MS Dhoni's captaincy, India achieved several significant milestones in ODIs, including winning major tournaments. Some of the notable achievements include:

  • Winning the inaugural ICC T20 World Cup in 2007.
  • Captaining India to victory in the ICC Cricket World Cup in 2011.
  • Guiding India to the ICC Champions Trophy title in 2013.

Leadership Style: MS Dhoni was known for his calm and composed demeanor on the field. He was often praised for his astute tactical decisions and his ability to handle pressure situations. He was also known as one of the best finishers in limited-overs cricket.

Batting Record as Captain: As a batsman, Dhoni also contributed significantly while leading the team. He scored numerous runs and played crucial innings as captain, known for his ability to finish matches.

4. AB de Villiers (South Africa):

AB de Villiers, a versatile and explosive batsman from South Africa, served as the captain of the national ODI team from 2012 to 2017. He was known for his innovative shot-making and ability to adapt to various situations.

During his captaincy, AB de Villiers accumulated 4,418 runs in 98 innings at an average of 63.48. He scored 13 centuries as captain, with a highest score of 176 not out. De Villiers was a crucial asset to South Africa's ODI success during his leadership.

5. Brian Lara (West Indies):

Brian Lara, one of the greatest batsmen in the history of cricket, also had a stint as the captain of the West Indies ODI team. He led the team from 1997 to 2007. Lara was known for his graceful stroke play and the ability to single-handedly win matches.

As an ODI captain, Brian Lara scored 4,007 runs in 117 innings at an average of 40.07. He recorded 8 centuries, with a highest score of 169. While the West Indies team faced challenges during his captaincy, Lara's individual brilliance was a standout feature.

In conclusion, these are the top five batsmen with the most runs as captains in One Day Internationals (ODIs). Each of these cricketers made significant contributions to their respective teams and left a lasting impact on the world of cricket. Their leadership and batting prowess have been instrumental in achieving success for their nations in ODI cricket.


Graeme Smith (South Africa):

  • Runs as Captain: 5,647
  • Matches as Captain: 149
  • Average: 38.60
  • Centuries: 8

Mahela Jayawardene (Sri Lanka):

  • Runs as Captain: 5,504
  • Matches as Captain: 126
  • Average: 40.81
  • Centuries: 11

Sourav Ganguly (India):

  • Runs as Captain: 5,082
  • Matches as Captain: 146
  • Average: 38.19
  • Centuries: 11