Top 10 Powerful Batters with Most Runs in ODI 2nd Innings – Legends Who Ruled Chases

Chasing a target in One Day Internationals (ODIs) requires not just skill but nerves of steel. Some batters have excelled under pressure, delivering consistent match-winning performances while chasing. This article highlights the top 10 players with the Most Runs in ODI 2nd Innings, celebrating their incredible achievements.

We will explore the journey of each player in reverse order from rank 10 to 1 with long descriptions and simplified stats tables including Country, Runs, Highest Score, and 100s/50s. The focus keyword “Most Runs in ODI 2nd Innings” is mentioned throughout to help fans and readers understand this important record in the simplest way.

List of Top 10 Powerful Batters with Most Runs in ODI 2nd Innings

10. Mahela Jayawardene

Mahela Jayawardene was the man Sri Lanka turned to when the innings needed stability. A technically sound batsman with the ability to pace the innings smartly, Mahela scored 5150 runs in the second innings of ODIs. He often walked in when early wickets had fallen and built strong partnerships. His calm presence helped his team in tricky run-chases. Jayawardene’s consistency and leadership in the middle order made him one of Sri Lanka’s most valuable ODI players. His ability to finish games or set up chases played a major role in him being among the top 10 for Most Runs in ODI 2nd Innings.

Country	Runs	Highest Score	100s/50s
Sri Lanka	5150	126*	6 / 28

9. Sourav Ganguly

Sourav Ganguly, known as “Dada,” brought aggression and passion to Indian cricket. He loved playing with intent, especially in run chases. With 5231 runs in 2nd innings, Ganguly’s bold strokeplay at the top of the order gave India quick starts, earning him a place among the players with the Most Runs in ODI 2nd Innings.

His fearless batting style was especially impactful in overseas conditions, where his off-side play was nearly unstoppable. Ganguly was not just a leader with his captaincy but also led with the bat in pressure moments. His high number of fifties reflects his ability to build long innings and make solid contributions in matches. He’s rightly in the elite list for Most Runs in ODI 2nd Innings.

Country	Runs	Highest Score	100s/50s
India	5231	135*	7 / 37

8. Kumar Sangakkara

Kumar Sangakkara was the definition of style and substance. In pressure-filled second innings, Sangakkara remained calm and composed, guiding Sri Lanka through tough chases. His total of 5400 runs in the second innings of ODIs shows how consistent and reliable he was. He often came in at a tough time and played the role of an anchor, rotating strike and accelerating when needed. Sangakkara’s ability to bat deep into the innings made him one of the finest batters with Most Runs in ODI 2nd Innings, and his presence gave confidence to the Sri Lankan side during tense moments.

Country	Runs	Highest Score	100s/50s
Sri Lanka	5400	134*	7 / 33

7. Brian Lara

Brian Lara’s name shines bright in the history of cricket. Known for his flair and technique, Lara scored 5425 runs in the second innings of ODIs. His footwork and shot selection were a delight to watch, especially when chasing tough targets. Even when the West Indies were struggling as a team, Lara’s brilliance often stood out. He played many memorable knocks under pressure and was a go-to batter in the second innings. His nine centuries in chases reflect his hunger for runs and his quality under pressure. Lara truly earned his place in the Most Runs in ODI 2nd Innings list.

Country	Runs	Highest Score	100s/50s
West Indies	5425	153	9 / 28

6. Chris Gayle

Chris Gayle brought explosive batting to the second innings like no other. The self-proclaimed “Universe Boss” scored 5524 runs in 2nd innings ODIs, often demolishing bowling attacks during chases. When he got going, no ground was big enough. Gayle’s ability to hit sixes and maintain a high strike rate made him extremely dangerous. While not known for running between the wickets, his power-hitting made up for it. His contribution to the Most Runs in ODI 2nd Innings is proof of how destructive he could be even in high-pressure situations.

Country	Runs	Highest Score	100s/50s
West Indies	5524	162	12 / 34

5. Jacques Kallis

Jacques Kallis was the heartbeat of South Africa’s middle order. Known for his technique and patience, he accumulated 5575 runs in ODI second innings. Kallis wasn’t flashy but incredibly effective. He held the innings together and often finished games with smart and calculated batting. His ability to adjust according to the situation made him one of the most dependable batters in world cricket. The presence of Kallis in the Most Runs in ODI 2nd Innings list proves his consistency and importance to the South African team during crucial chases.

Country	Runs	Highest Score	100s/50s
South Africa	5575	139	5 / 45

4. Sanath Jayasuriya

Sanath Jayasuriya changed the way teams approached ODI cricket. As an opener, he believed in attacking from the very beginning. With 5742 runs in second innings, he gave Sri Lanka blazing starts that put pressure on opponents. His fearless batting often made big chases look small. Although his average isn’t the highest, his impact in the first 15 overs was unmatched. Jayasuriya’s aggressive approach helped Sri Lanka build momentum early in the innings. He deserves his spot among the top for Most Runs in ODI 2nd Innings.

Country	Runs	Highest Score	100s/50s
Sri Lanka	5742	152	10 / 30

3. Rohit Sharma

Rohit Sharma is one of the most elegant and dangerous batters in world cricket. With 6191 runs in the 2nd innings of ODIs, he has been crucial in many of India’s successful chases. His calm approach and ability to shift gears make him a unique asset. Rohit’s centuries often come with a touch of class, and his habit of playing big innings helps India control run chases with ease. He remains one of the most feared batters in world cricket and proudly holds his place in the Most Runs in ODI 2nd Innings rankings.

Country	Runs	Highest Score	100s/50s
India	6191	152*	16 / 38

2. Virat Kohli

When it comes to chasing, Virat Kohli is a living legend. He has scored 8064 runs in second innings of ODIs at an incredible average of 64.00 the highest among all in this list. What makes Kohli special is not just his ability to score runs, but to do it under pressure, repeatedly. His 28 centuries in 2nd innings speak volumes about his hunger, skill, and composure. Whether chasing a small total or a huge one, Kohli’s presence at the crease often means India is in control. He’s the ultimate example of Most Runs in ODI 2nd Innings success.

Country	Runs	Highest Score	100s/50s
India	8064	183	28 / 41

1. Sachin Tendulkar

Sachin Tendulkar was the original master of consistency and longevity. At the top of the list with 8720 runs in 2nd innings, Tendulkar played several iconic knocks for India. He opened the batting for most of his career and often set the platform for successful run chases. His blend of technique, aggression, and cricketing intelligence made him a reliable figure even in high-pressure matches. He scored 17 centuries and 52 fifties, guiding India through many memorable victories. Even before the modern-day chasing legends emerged, Sachin held the crown for Most Runs in ODI 2nd Innings.

Country	Runs	Highest Score	100s/50s
India	8720	175	17 / 52

READ MORE: Top 10 Players with the Most Runs in the First Innings of ODIs

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