From explosive openers to middle-order maestros, these are the batting greats who have amassed the most runs in IPL history
The Indian Premier League (IPL) has always been a battleground for elite batters. Year after year, some of the finest cricketers have showcased their brilliance, smashing runs and setting records. As the 2025 edition of the tournament approaches, it is time to revisit the top five run-scorers in IPL history. These players have made a significant impact on the league with their consistency, class, and match-winning performances. Let us examine the stalwarts who have dominated the IPL batting charts.
When it comes to IPL batting records, one name stands above the rest—Virat Kohli. The Royal Challengers Bengaluru stalwart has amassed an astonishing 8,004 runs in 244 innings since his IPL debut in 2008. Kohli became the first player ever to surpass the 8,000-run mark, achieving this historic feat during the 2024 Eliminator against Rajasthan Royals.
Credit -- News18
His consistency is unparalleled, boasting eight centuries and 55 fifties at an average of 38.67. His 2016 season remains the most dominant batting display in IPL history—973 runs with four centuries in a single edition. In 2024, he once again demonstrated his class, securing his second Orange Cap with 741 runs. Whether anchoring an innings or launching an all-out assault, Kohli remains the gold standard of IPL batting.
Shikhar Dhawan may not always be in the limelight, but his statistics speak volumes. The stylish left-hander has amassed 6,769 runs in 221 innings, maintaining a commendable average of 35.26. Over the years, he has represented several franchises, including the Delhi Capitals, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Punjab Kings, demonstrating his versatility across teams.
Dhawan's strength lies in his ability to construct innings with ease. With two centuries and 51 half-centuries to his name, he has proven to be a reliable top-order batter. His longevity in the league (2008–2024) serves as a testament to his adaptability and hunger for runs. Moreover, his skill in finding gaps and rotating strikes establishes him as one of the most effective batters in the IPL.
Rohit Sharma's IPL journey seamlessly blends leadership with batting excellence. The former captain of the Mumbai Indians has amassed 6,628 runs over 252 innings, playing a pivotal role in his team's record five IPL title victories. Although he began his career with the Deccan Chargers, it was with Mumbai that he solidified his status as an IPL legend.
Rohit's ability to score under pressure and perform in critical matches distinguishes him. With two centuries and 43 fifties, he has consistently provided solid starts and played pivotal middle-order innings. Although his IPL average of 29.72 may not be the highest, his contribution to the Mumbai Indians' supremacy is invaluable. He remains one of the most accomplished captains and batters in IPL history.
David Warner has redefined the role of an opening batter in T20 cricket. The Australian dynamo has amassed 6,565 runs in 184 innings at an exceptional average of 40.52—the highest among all leading run-scorers. His aggressive style and fearless approach have made him one of the most formidable batters in IPL history.
Warner's IPL journey (2009–2024) has been filled with remarkable achievements, including four centuries and 62 fifties. He has also won the Orange Cap three times (2015, 2017, and 2019), a record few can rival. His leadership led Sunrisers Hyderabad to their first title in 2016, solidifying his legacy as one of the most influential overseas players in the tournament.
No IPL list is complete without Suresh Raina, the man often regarded as 'Mr. IPL.' The left-hander was a cornerstone of Chennai Super Kings' success, accumulating 5,528 runs in 200 innings at an average of 32.52. From 2008 to 2021, Raina ranked among the most reliable middle-order batters, delivering match-defining performances season after season.
With one century and 39 fifties, Raina played a pivotal role in CSK's numerous title victories. His capacity to accelerate the innings and exceptional fielding rendered him indispensable. Even after his retirement, his legacy in the IPL remains unparalleled.
