Top 10 Highest Run Scorers in IPL- From Virat Kohli to Robin Uthappa

The Indian Premier League has been the biggest platform for cricketers to showcase their skills and entertain millions of fans worldwide. Since its inception in 2008, the IPL has witnessed some of the greatest batting performances in T20 history- from powerful openers to dominant middle-order batsmen.

Batsmen With the Most Runs in IPL

The IPL has been a breeding ground for young talent, but it has also seen established stars shine brightly on the biggest stage. The likes of Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and MS Dhoni have been synonymous with the IPL, and their impressive run-scoring records are a testament to their greatness. But they are not alone, as other players like David Warner, Shikhar Dhawan, and AB de Villiers have given their respective teams a very hard time in making them reach such heights of success.

Here we count down the top 10 players with the most runs in IPL history and feature some of the greatest batsmen ever to have played the game. These players have given fans hundreds of moments full of joy and excitement. Now, let us begin and know who makes the cut in our list of the top 10 batsmen with the most runs in IPL history.

10. Dinesh Karthik | Matches 247 | 4842 Runs

Dinesh Karthik, a former seasoned wicketkeeper-batsman, was a significant figure in the IPL, accumulating 4842 runs in 257 matches. Known for his finishing abilities and sharp wicketkeeping skills, Karthik has played for multiple franchises, including Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB). 

He has one IPL title to his name, he was with Mumbai Indians during IPL 2013 winning campaign. Karthik started his career as a top-order batter but later cemented his name as one of the greatest finishers in the history of the Indian Premier League.

9. Robin Uthappa | Matches 205 | 4952 Runs

Robin Uthappa was a reliable and consistent contributor in the IPL, scoring 4952 runs in 205 matches. Known for his quick-scoring ability and excellent fielding, Uthappa has played for several franchises, including Kolkata Knight Riders and Rajasthan Royals (RR). With a strike rate of 130.35 and an average of 27.51, Uthappa has consistently delivered solid performances. 

Throughout his career, Uthappa was one of the unsung heroes in IPL cricket, often delivering when his team needed him the most. His orange cap-winning performance in IPL 2014 helped KKR lift their second title.

8. Chris Gayle | Matches 142 | 4965 Runs

Chris Gayle, often referred to as the “Universe Boss,” was one of the most explosive and entertaining players in the IPL. With 4965 runs in just 142 matches, Gayle’s ability to turn matches on their head with his brute force made him a deadly player in T20 cricket. His highest score of 175* is an IPL record, and his strike rate of 148.96 is a clear reflection of his power-hitting capabilities. 

Having played for multiple franchises, including Royal Challengers Bangalore and Punjab Kings (PBKS), Gayle’s impact on the game is unmatched when it comes to destroying opposition bowling attacks. 

7. AB de Villiers | Matches 184 | 5162 Runs

AB de Villiers, the South African maestro, is one of the most dynamic and innovative batsmen in the history of the IPL. With 5162 runs in 184 matches, his ability to play unconventional shots and dominate bowlers made him a fan favorite. With an average of 39.7 and a phenomenal strike rate of 151.68, de Villiers is known for his unorthodox style, often turning games in his team’s favor. 

De Villiers’ time with Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) saw him develop a reputation as one of the most destructive players in the T20 format. His ability to score runs at will, whether through aerial shots or innovative sweeps, has set him apart. 

6. MS Dhoni | Matches 264 | 5243 Runs

MS Dhoni, one of the greatest captains in cricket history, has been the face of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the IPL, accumulating 5243 runs in 264 matches. Renowned for his cool-headed approach and finishing abilities, Dhoni has been a game-changer for CSK, leading them to five IPL titles. 

Despite his age, Dhoni continues to remain a force in the IPL, with his tactical acumen and finishing prowess ensuring that he remains one of the most loved and respected figures in the tournament.

5. Suresh Raina | Matches 205 | 5528 Runs

Suresh Raina, fondly known as “Mr. IPL,” is one of the most iconic figures in the tournament, scoring 5528 runs in 205 matches. Raina’s aggressive and attacking style stands as a hallmark of his IPL career, particularly with Chennai Super Kings (CSK), with whom he won several titles before announcing his retirement from the league.

Raina’s role in the CSK lineup was more than just a top-order batsman; his sharp fielding and occasional bowling contributions added to his value. As one of the most trusted players in IPL history, Raina’s reputation as a big-match player is solidified through his performances in crucial moments. 

4. David Warner | Matches 184 | 6565 Runs

David Warner, the Australian opener, is one of the most successful and explosive batsmen in IPL history, scoring 6565 runs in 184 matches. Known for his aggressive stroke play and fearless attitude, Warner was a key player for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), leading them to an IPL title in 2016. He is the most successful overseas batter in the history of IPL.

His leadership during his tenure as SRH’s captain also contributed to his status as one of the most prominent figures in the IPL. Despite being a foreign player, Warner’s popularity and contributions to the tournament have made him a household name in India.

3. Rohit Sharma | Matches 257 | 6628 Runs

Rohit Sharma, the former captain of Mumbai Indians (MI), has been an integral part of the IPL, accumulating 6628 runs across 257 matches. Sharma has led MI to five IPL titles, making him the most successful captain in IPL history. He has amassed runs in the cash-rich league with an average of 29.72 and a strike rate of 131.14. He has scored 43 half-centuries and 2 centuries in IPL.

Rohit Sharma’s success in the IPL is not just attributed to his batting prowess but also to his leadership qualities. Under his captaincy, MI has become the most dominant team in the history of the IPL, and his performances have played a pivotal role in the franchise’s success. 

2. Shikhar Dhawan | 222 Matches | 6769 Runs

Shikhar Dhawan is another stalwart in the IPL, with 6769 runs in 222 matches to his name. A left-handed opener known for his aggressive approach, Dhawan has consistently provided his teams with solid starts. With an average of 35.25 and a strike rate of 127.14, Dhawan has been an absolute IPL legend. 

Dhawan has been a crucial player for several franchises, including Delhi Capitals (DC) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) before announcing his retirement from all forms of Indian cricket. His solid performances over the years and his ability to score in a variety of conditions make him one of the most successful and respected figures in the league

1. Virat Kohli | 252 Matches | 8004 Runs

The modern-day master Virat Kohli stands as the highest run-scorer in IPL history, amassing a total of 8004 runs in 252 matches. He is the only player to play for a single IPL team since 2008. With 55 half-centuries and 8 centuries to his name, Kohli has been a prolific contributor, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest players in IPL history.

Beyond the sheer number of runs, Kohli’s presence in the IPL has been marked by his leadership and consistency. He has been the recipient of an orange cap twice in IPL. He has been a cornerstone of RCB for many seasons, although he stepped down as the team’s captain in recent years

Top 10 Batsmen With Most Runs In IPL History