T20 cricket is fast, exciting, and full of big shots, but it also rewards consistency. Over the years, several players have dominated the format across leagues and international matches, piling up thousands of runs. Their ability to adapt to different conditions, bowlers, and match situations has kept them ahead of the rest.
These batting giants have not only entertained fans but also set benchmarks for the next generation to chase. Here’s a look at the top six run-getters in all T20 cricket (including domestic leagues and T20 internationals) as of August 2025.
6. Virat Kohli – 13,543 runs
- Country: India
- Matches/inning: 414/397
Kohli is now just two runs behind Warner. He is the first Indian to score more than 13,000 T20 runs. His game relies on timing and placement rather than sheer power, making him one of the most consistent run-scorers in the world.
5. David Warner – 13,545 runs
- Country: Australia
- Matches/inning: 419/418
Warner recently overtook Virat Kohli to claim fifth place on this list. He reached the milestone during The Hundred on August 12, 2025. Known for his attacking approach, Warner has been a star in both international cricket and leagues like the IPL, BBL, and PSL.
4. Shoaib Malik – 13,571 runs
- Country: Pakistan
- Matches/inning: 557/515
Malik’s longevity in cricket is remarkable. Even without a single T20 century, his consistency has brought him over 13,571 runs, backed by 83 fifties. His adaptability to different match situations makes him one of the most dependable batters in the format.
3. Alex Hales – 13,814 runs
- Country: England
- Matches/inning: 503/499
Hales is one of England’s most successful T20 batters. A top-order stroke-maker, he has scored 7 centuries and around 86 fifties in the format. His aggressive starts have been vital for teams in leagues like the PSL, BBL, and The Hundred.
2. Kieron Pollard – 13,854 runs
- Country: West Indies
- Matches/inning: 707/629
Pollard has been a T20 giant, known for his six-hitting ability and match-finishing skills. Over nearly two decades, he has played for multiple franchises worldwide, scoring 13,854 runs, including 1 century and over 63 fifties.
1. Chris Gayle – 14,562 runs
- Country: West Indies
- Matches/inning: 463/455
Nicknamed the “Universe Boss,” Gayle is the undisputed king of T20 cricket. He scored over 14,562 runs with an incredible strike rate, smashing 22 centuries and 88 fifties. His record-breaking 175* for Royal Challengers Bangalore in IPL 2013 remains the highest individual score in T20 history.
Summary Table – Top 6 T20 Run-Scorers
| Rank | Player | Runs | Country |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chris Gayle | 14,562 | West Indies |
| 2 | Kieron Pollard | 13,854 | West Indies |
| 3 | Alex Hales | 13,814 | England |
| 4 | Shoaib Malik | 13,571 | Pakistan |
| 5 | David Warner | 13,545 | Australia |
| 6 | Virat Kohli | 13,543 | India |
Conclusion
T20 cricket has given us explosive knocks, incredible partnerships, and unforgettable finishes. These six batters have mastered the art of scoring quickly while staying consistent over many years. With Kohli and Warner neck-and-neck, the fight for the fifth spot will be one to watch in the coming months.
Written by Kinjal Walantra
