Over the years, the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup has been a stage for several exceptional batters who have consistently stamped their authority on the tournament. While many players have delivered standout performances in isolated editions, a select few have managed to dominate across multiple tournaments, climbing to the top of the all-time run-scoring charts. This article takes a closer look at those elite names whose sustained brilliance with the bat has defined the history of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup and set them apart from the rest. Here are the top five leading run scorers of the ICC T20 World Cup Tournament.

1. Virat Kohli: 1292 Runs in 35 Matches

Virat Kohli stands as the most prolific and highest run-getter in the history of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, amassing 1,292 runs across 33 innings. He also owns the record for the highest run tally in a single T20 World Cup edition, scoring 319 runs in 2014. Having featured in six editions of the global event, the modern-day great finally capped his journey by lifting the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup title in 2024. His numbers reflect remarkable consistency and dominance, with an outstanding average of 58.72 and a healthy strike rate of 128.81. Kohli has registered 15 half-centuries in the tournament, signifying his high-class calibre.

2. Rohit Sharma: 1220 Runs in 47 Matches

Rohit Sharma has left a lasting mark on the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, both as a destructive opening batter and a successful leader of the Indian cricket team. The right-hander sits second on the all-time run-scoring charts of the tournament, having accumulated 1,220 runs in 47 matches, highlighted by 12 half-centuries. In addition, he achieved a major milestone by captaining the Men in Blue to the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup triumph in 2024, underlining his longevity and leadership at the highest level.

3. Mahela Jayawardene: 1016 Runs in 31 Matches

Mahela Jayawardene, one of Sri Lanka’s finest batters, occupies third place on the all-time run-scoring list in ICC Men’s T20 World Cup history. Featuring in 31 matches between 2007 and 2014, he compiled 1,016 runs at an impressive average of 39.07. His tally includes a memorable century and six half-centuries, and he holds the distinction of being the first player to cross the 1,000-run milestone in the tournament, setting a benchmark for consistency in the competition’s early years.

4. Jos Buttler: 1013 Runs in 35 Matches

Jos Buttler has been a cornerstone of England’s batting success, consistently delivering match-defining performances with his explosive stroke play. A key contributor to England’s ICC Men’s T20 World Cup triumph in 2022, the right-hander has accumulated 1,013 runs in the tournament’s history. His record includes one century and five half-centuries, underlining his ability to dominate attacks on the biggest stage. Buttler’s presence at the top of the order transforms England’s batting unit, and his absence often leaves a noticeable void in the team’s approach and impact.

5. David Warner: 984 Runs in 41 Matches

David Warner features among the list as the fifth-highest run-scorer in ICC Men’s T20 World Cup history. The former Australian opener amassed 984 runs across 41 appearances, showcasing his consistency at the top of the order. A dynamic left-hander, Warner registered eight half-centuries in the tournament, with a personal best of 89 not out. He was also a vital cog in Australia’s campaign during the 2021 edition, playing a key role as the team lifted their maiden ICC Men’s T20 World Cup title.