The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup has produced some of the highest run-scorers in T20 World Cup history since 2007. Several world-class batsmen have dominated the tournament with consistent performances, big scores, and match-winning innings.
Virat Kohli leads the list as the all-time highest run-scorer in ICC Men’s T20 World Cup history with 1,292 runs. In this article, we take a look at the top 10 batsmen with the most runs in T20 World Cup history and their overall impact in the shortest format.
Top 10 Most Runs in ICC Men’s T20 World Cup History
Check out the leading run-scorers in ICC Men’s T20 World Cup history and how they dominated the game.
| Player | Runs | Mat | HS | Ave | SR | Span |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| V Kohli (IND) | 1292 | 35 | 89* | 58.72 | 128.81 | 2012–2024 |
| RG Sharma (IND) | 1220 | 47 | 92 | 34.85 | 133.04 | 2007–2024 |
| JC Buttler (ENG) | 1073 | 40 | 101* | 37.00 | 144.80 | 2012–2026 |
| DPMD Jayawardene (SL) | 1016 | 31 | 100 | 39.07 | 134.74 | 2007–2014 |
| DA Warner (AUS) | 984 | 41 | 89* | 25.89 | 134.24 | 2009–2024 |
| CH Gayle (WI) | 965 | 33 | 117 | 34.46 | 142.75 | 2007–2021 |
| TM Dilshan (SL) | 897 | 35 | 96* | 30.93 | 124.06 | 2007–2016 |
| Shakib Al Hasan (BAN) | 853 | 43 | 84 | 23.05 | 120.14 | 2007–2024 |
| Q de Kock (SA) | 777 | 32 | 74 | 25.06 | 132.59 | 2014–2026 |
| KS Williamson (NZ) | 727 | 29 | 85 | 31.60 | 112.53 | 2012–2024 |
Now, have a look at some detailed insights on players who have scored the most runs in the CC Men’s T20 World Cup history.
1. Virat Kohli (India)- 1292 Runs
Virat Kohli is the leading run-scorer in T20 World Cup history with 1,292 runs. He thrives under pressure and often scores heavily in crucial middle overs.
His innings are known for consistency, reflected in an impressive average of 58.72 and a top score of 89*. Kohli excels in chasing targets and performing in high-stakes games.
Across 35 matches from 2012 to 2024, he maintains a strong strike rate of 128.81, showing his ability to balance attack and stability in most conditions.
2. Rohit Sharma (India)- 1220 Runs
Rohit Sharma has scored 1,220 runs in T20 World Cups, making him one of the most reliable openers in the tournament. He does most of his scoring early, taking advantage of fielding restrictions.
His highest score of 92 shows his ability to convert starts into big innings. With a strike rate of 133.04, Rohit scores freely on good batting surfaces.
Across 47 matches from 2007 to 2024, he has delivered impact innings, especially in matches where India needed fast starts.
3. Jos Buttler (England)- 1039 Runs
Jos Buttler has amassed 1,039 runs in T20 World Cups, mainly scoring during aggressive opening and middle-order innings. He thrives on pace-friendly and flat wickets.
His unbeaten 101 highlights his match-winning ability, while a strike rate of 147.37 shows his attacking approach. Buttler often accelerates after the powerplay.
Playing 36 matches from 2012 to 2026, he has been England’s go-to batter in high-scoring conditions.
4. Mahela Jayawardene (Sri Lanka)- 1016 Runs
Mahela Jayawardene scored 1,016 runs in T20 World Cups, excelling in anchoring the innings. He was most effective in stabilising Sri Lanka’s middle order.
His highest score of 100 reflects his ability to bat long under pressure. With an average of 39.07, Jayawardene delivered consistency on slower pitches.
Across 31 matches from 2007 to 2014, he adapted well to varied conditions and guided his team through tough phases.
5. David Warner (Australia)- 984 Runs
David Warner has scored 984 runs in T20 World Cups, doing most of his damage as an explosive opener. He thrives on true wickets and fast outfields.
His top score of 89* shows his ability to dominate attacks early. With a strike rate of 134.24, Warner often sets the tone in powerplays.
Playing 41 matches from 2009 to 2024, he has been Australia’s key run-scorer in high-intensity games.
6. Chris Gayle (West Indies)- 965 Runs
Chris Gayle has piled up 965 runs in T20 World Cups, mostly through dominant top-order innings. He is most dangerous on flat pitches with short boundaries.
His tournament-high 117 highlights his power-hitting ability. A strike rate of 142.75 reflects his fearless batting approach.
Across 33 matches from 2007 to 2021, Gayle delivered explosive starts that often changed games within a few overs.
7. Tillakaratne Dilshan (Sri Lanka)- 897 Runs
Tillakaratne Dilshan scored 897 runs in the T20 World Cups, primarily as an attacking opener. He was effective in making use of the powerplay overs.
His highest score of 96* shows his ability to control innings while scoring quickly. Dilshan maintained a strike rate of 124.06.
From 2007 to 2016, across 35 matches, he provided Sri Lanka with consistent starts in varied playing conditions.
8. Shakib Al Hasan (Bangladesh)- 853 Runs
Shakib Al Hasan has accumulated 853 runs in T20 World Cups, often batting in pressure situations. He performs best on slower pitches.
His top score of 84 highlights his ability to steady the innings. With 43 matches played, Shakib contributes consistently across tournaments.
From 2007 to 2024, his balanced batting helped Bangladesh compete strongly in challenging conditions.
9. Q de Kock (South Africa) – 777 Runs
Quinton de Kock has scored 777 runs in T20 World Cups, playing a key role at the top of the order for South Africa. As an aggressive left-handed opener, he looks to attack early and put pressure on bowlers during the powerplay.
His highest score of 74 highlights his ability to provide solid starts, while his strike rate of 132.59 reflects his positive approach. Across 32 matches from 2014 to 2026, de Kock has delivered quick and impactful innings, giving South Africa strong momentum in crucial games.
10. Kane Williamson (New Zealand)- 727 Runs
Kane Williamson has scored 727 runs in T20 World Cups, focusing on building innings rather than quick starts. He excels in difficult batting conditions.
His highest score of 85 reflects his calm approach under pressure. Williamson’s average of 31.60 shows steady contributions.
Across 29 matches from 2012 to 2024, he often guided New Zealand through tricky middle overs.
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Conclusion: Virat Kohli Tops The T20 World Cup Run Charts With 1,292 Runs
Virat Kohli leads the T20 World Cup run charts with 1,292 runs and an excellent average of 58.72. Rohit Sharma follows with 1,220 runs from a record 47 matches, while Jos Buttler ranks third with 1,039 runs and the highest strike rate among top scorers.
The ongoing T20 World Cup 2026 may change these standings. Players already on the list could add more runs, while new batters may enter the top group.
As T20 cricket becomes more aggressive, these records will continue to be challenged.
