In the fast-paced and thrilling arena of One Day International (ODI) cricket, reaching the 7,000-run milestone is a hallmark of a batsman’s consistency, adaptability, and sheer brilliance.
While many greats have crossed this threshold, only a select few have done so with remarkable speed, etching their names into the annals of cricketing history.
This article dives deep into the careers of the six fastest players to achieve this feat, with a particular focus on how Virat Kohli, despite his extraordinary record, finds himself outside the top two, trailing behind Hashim Amla and Kane Williamson.
Here Are 6 Players Who Scored The Fastest 7,000 Runs In ODIs: Focus On Virat Kohli
Hashim Amla, the South African maestro, sits atop this elite list, having reached 7,000 runs in just 150 innings since his debut in 2008.
Amla’s batting was a masterclass in technique and temperament, blending classical strokeplay with an almost serene composure at the crease.
His ability to build innings, often under pressure, made him a cornerstone of South Africa’s batting lineup.
By the time he reached this milestone in 2017, Amla had not only set a benchmark for consistency but had also redefined the art of run accumulation in ODIs.
His journey to 7,000 runs was marked by a quiet efficiency, where each run seemed to flow naturally, reflecting his deep understanding of the game’s nuances.
Kane Williamson, the elegant New Zealand captain, follows closely, reaching the 7,000-run mark in 159 innings after debuting in 2010.
Williamson’s ascent to this milestone, achieved in 2025, is a testament to his adaptability and class in an era increasingly dominated by aggressive, power-packed batting.
Known for his impeccable timing and ability to anchor or accelerate as the situation demands, Williamson has been the backbone of New Zealand’s ODI success.
His journey reflects a balance of traditional batting virtues and modern-day pragmatism, making him a standout performer in a highly competitive field.
His achievement, coming later in his career, also underscores his longevity and unwavering commitment to excellence.
Virat Kohli, often hailed as one of the greatest ODI batsmen of all time, reached 7,000 runs in 161 innings, a feat he accomplished in 2016 after debuting in 2008.
Despite his staggering consistency and an unmatched record in run-chases, Kohli finds himself in third place on this list, behind Amla and Williamson.
Kohli’s journey to this milestone was nothing short of spectacular, characterized by his relentless pursuit of perfection and an insatiable appetite for runs.
His ability to dominate attacks, combined with his fitness and mental fortitude, has made him a global icon.
However, the slight delay in reaching 7,000 runs compared to Amla and Williamson does not diminish his legacy but rather highlights the extraordinary pace set by the top two.
Kohli’s contribution to Indian cricket and the ODI format remains unparalleled, with his milestone serving as a stepping stone to even greater heights.
AB de Villiers, the South African genius known as ‘Mr. 360’, reached 7,000 runs in 166 innings, starting from his debut in 2005.
De Villiers’ path to this milestone, achieved in 2014, was a rollercoaster of innovation and audacity.
His ability to reinvent the game with unorthodox shots and a 360-degree scoring range made him one of the most feared batsmen in the world.
De Villiers was not just a run-scorer but a game-changer, capable of turning matches on their head with his sheer brilliance.
His milestone is a celebration of his flair and adaptability, showcasing how he blended power, precision, and creativity to leave an indelible mark on ODI cricket.
Sourav Ganguly, the former Indian captain and a pioneer of modern Indian cricket, took 174 innings to reach 7,000 runs, beginning his ODI career in 1992.
Ganguly’s journey to this milestone, completed in 2001, was emblematic of his career—a blend of elegance, aggression, and leadership.
Known for his majestic cover drives and lofted shots, Ganguly was a batsman who could dominate bowlers with both style and substance.
His achievement came at a time when Indian cricket was undergoing a transformation, and his role as a leader and run-scorer was instrumental in shaping the team’s future.
Ganguly’s 7,000 runs are not just a personal milestone but a symbol of his broader impact on the game.
Rohit Sharma, the Indian opener renowned for his breathtaking strokeplay, reached 7,000 runs in 181 innings, having debuted in 2007.
Sharma’s journey to this milestone, achieved in 2018, is a story of evolution—from a talented middle-order batsman to one of the most destructive openers in ODI history.
His ability to score big, including multiple double centuries, has made him a modern-day legend.
Sharma’s milestone reflects his growth as a batsman who combines timing, power, and an uncanny ability to read the game.
By 2018, he had established himself as a key pillar of India’s batting lineup, with his 7,000 runs serving as a testament to his consistency and flair.
The stories of these six cricketers—Hashim Amla, Kane Williamson, Virat Kohli, AB de Villiers, Sourav Ganguly, and Rohit Sharma—offer a fascinating glimpse into the diverse paths to cricketing greatness.
While Kohli’s brilliance is undeniable, his third-place ranking behind Amla and Williamson highlights the extraordinary feats of the South African and New Zealand stars.
Each player brought something unique to the table: Amla’s technical mastery, Williamson’s classical elegance, Kohli’s relentless consistency, De Villiers’ innovation, Ganguly’s leadership, and Sharma’s explosive power.
Together, they have enriched the ODI format, setting benchmarks that inspire future generations.
Their journeys to 7,000 runs are not just about numbers but about the artistry, resilience, and passion that define cricket at its finest.
