Facing Australia in ODIs has always been one of the toughest challenges for any batter. The Australian bowling attack — known for its pace, accuracy, and relentless aggression — has tested some of the best in the world. Yet, a few legends have mastered the challenge and scored heavily against them over the years.
Here’s a look at the top 10 players with the most runs scored against Australia in ODIs, including Indian greats like Sachin Tendulkar, Rohit Sharma, and Virat Kohli, who dominate this elite list.
Most Runs Against Australia in ODIs
| Player | Span | Mat | Inns | Runs | HS | Avg | SR | 100 | 50 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sachin Tendulkar (IND) | 1991–2012 | 71 | 70 | 3077 | 175 | 44.59 | 84.71 | 9 | 15 |
| Rohit Sharma (IND) | 2007–2025 | 48 | 48 | 2488 | 209 | 56.54 | 95.03 | 8 | 10 |
| Virat Kohli (IND) | 2009–2025 | 52 | 50 | 2451 | 123 | 52.14 | 93.26 | 8 | 15 |
| Desmond Haynes (WI) | 1978–1993 | 64 | 64 | 2262 | 148 | 40.39 | 65.14 | 6 | 13 |
| Viv Richards (WI) | 1975–1991 | 54 | 50 | 2187 | 153* | 50.86 | 84.63 | 3 | 20 |
| Eoin Morgan (ENG/IRE) | 2007–2020 | 57 | 56 | 1952 | 121 | 39.83 | 91.34 | 3 | 13 |
| Brian Lara (WI) | 1991–2007 | 51 | 50 | 1858 | 139 | 39.53 | 76.58 | 3 | 15 |
| Kumar Sangakkara (SL) | 2002–2015 | 46 | 46 | 1813 | 104 | 43.16 | 77.71 | 2 | 12 |
| MS Dhoni (IND) | 2006–2019 | 55 | 48 | 1660 | 139* | 44.86 | 80.89 | 2 | 11 |
| Jacques Kallis (SA) | 1997–2011 | 50 | 50 | 1660 | 104* | 34.58 | 72.87 | 1 | 13 |
1. Sachin Tendulkar (3077 Runs)
No surprises here — the Master Blaster tops the list with a phenomenal 3,077 runs in 71 matches. His nine centuries against Australia include some iconic innings, such as his unforgettable 175 at Hyderabad (2009) and the ‘Desert Storm’ knocks at Sharjah in 1998. Tendulkar’s consistency against one of the best bowling attacks in the world defines his greatness.
2. Rohit Sharma (2488 Runs)
Rohit Sharma has been a nightmare for Australia, especially in big matches. His 209 in Bengaluru (2013) remains one of the most destructive ODI innings ever played. With an average of 56.54 and a strike rate of 95.03, Rohit has combined elegance with aggression to dominate Australian bowlers across formats.
3. Virat Kohli (2451 Runs)
Known for his hunger for runs, Kohli has scored 2451 runs against Australia at an average above 52. His chase-master credentials were often highlighted in ODIs versus Australia, where he has struck 8 hundreds. Kohli’s ability to accelerate smartly and adapt to conditions makes him one of the finest ODI batsmen of this generation.
4. Desmond Haynes (2262 Runs)
The West Indies legend Desmond Haynes was one of the earliest consistent run-getters against Australia. With six centuries, Haynes was the anchor of a dominant Windies lineup during the late ’70s and ’80s.
5. Vivian Richards (2187 Runs)
Sir Viv Richards, known for his fearless batting, amassed 2,187 runs against Australia at an impressive strike rate of 84.63 — exceptional for his era. His dominance over fast bowlers like Lillee and Thomson showcased his unmatched confidence.
6. Eoin Morgan (1952 Runs)
England’s World Cup-winning captain Eoin Morgan sits sixth, with 1952 runs. His attacking style and middle-order stability made him a key figure in England’s ODI revival, especially in matches against Australia.
7. Brian Lara (1858 Runs)
Lara’s elegant strokeplay was a treat to watch, even against Australia’s world-class bowling. His three centuries came in tough away conditions, reflecting his unmatched class.
8. Kumar Sangakkara (1813 Runs)
Sri Lanka’s batting legend Sangakkara combined patience with timing, scoring over 1800 runs against Australia. His wicketkeeping and leadership made him one of the most complete players of his era.
9. MS Dhoni (1660 Runs)
India’s most successful captain, MS Dhoni, often played the finisher’s role to perfection. His unbeaten 139 at Mohali (2009)* remains one of his finest ODI knocks against Australia. His calm approach and ability to guide run chases were vital for India’s success.
10. Jacques Kallis (1660 Runs)
South African great Jacques Kallis wraps up the list with 1660 runs. Known for his solid technique, Kallis often blunted Australia’s fast bowlers and was equally effective in home and away conditions.
From Tendulkar’s dominance to Kohli’s precision and Rohit’s power, this list reflects how the world’s best batters have measured their greatness against cricket’s toughest opponents — Australia. Each name here represents not just records, but memorable battles that shaped the history of One Day cricket.
