In an epoch-making incident for Indian cricket, the great batsman Virat Kohli inscribed his name in the T20 cricket records after becoming the first Indian cricketer to score 12,000 runs in this format. Although he has achieved this historic feat, he is only the sixth cricketer in the world to have scored so many runs in T20 cricket. Kohli’s feat spotlights his unassailable dominance and unrivaled consistency in the fast and furious world of T20 cricket. This milestone showcases his talent with the bat and serves as a testament to his unwavering commitment and persistence.
12,000 T20I runs represent an epic achievement in the dynamic world of T20 cricket. Since the inception of the format, it has witnessed the emergence of numerous prolific batsmen, each leaving an indelible mark on the game. The proliferation of T20 leagues, alongside international T20 matches, has provided a platform for batsmen to showcase their talent and assert their dominance in this fast-paced format.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the leading run-scorers in T20 cricket:
Chris Gayle – 14562 runs
Nicknamed the “Universe Boss,” Chris Gayle towers over the T20 batting charts with his colossal presence. Over a career spanning 17 years from 2005 to 2022, Gayle has shattered numerous batting records. The Caribbean legend has amassed a staggering 14,562 runs in 455 matches, establishing himself as the preeminent force in T20 cricket. With 22 centuries to his name, Gayle holds the record for the most centuries in the format.
Shoaib Malik – 13360 runs
Former Pakistan captain Shoaib Malik made his T20 debut in 2005 and has since been a stalwart in the format. With a career spanning 19 years, Malik has accumulated 13,360 runs in T20 cricket, making him one of the most consistent performers in the game.
Kieron Pollard – 12900 runs
Known for his explosive batting style, Kieron Pollard has been a force to be reckoned with in T20 cricket. Despite predominantly featuring in the middle and lower order, Pollard has amassed an impressive tally of nearly 13,000 runs in the format. With a staggering 660 T20 appearances to his name, the West Indian powerhouse has left a trail of destruction with his aggressive strokeplay, epitomized by his remarkable tally of 860 sixes – the second-highest in T20 history.
Alex Hales – 12319 runs
English opener Alex Hales has carved out a stellar T20 career, amassing over 12,000 runs in the format. With 12319 runs from 449 matches, Hales has consistently delivered impressive performances at the top of the order.
David Warner – 12065 runs
Australian opener David Warner has stamped his authority in T20 cricket with his aggressive batting style. Recently joining the elite club of 12,000-run scorers, Warner achieved the milestone in just 368 innings, the second-fastest after Gayle. With 109 fifty-plus scores to his name, Warner ranks second on the list of most fifty-plus scores in T20 cricket, reaffirming his status as one of the premier batsmen in the format.
Finally Virat Kohli joined the list when he shattered an incredible record in the IPL 2024 season opener against Chennai Super Kings, becoming the first Indian cricketer to amass 12,000 runs in T20 cricket.
In the first game of the 2024 IPL season, Kohli set his sights on achieving this historic milestone. Just 6 runs away from the coveted 12,000-run mark, Kohli clinched the record with a single in the 7th over.
