India and Sri Lanka gear up to host T20 World Cup 2026 starting February 7, the milestone 10th edition. The absence of Kohli, Rohit, and Warner stings, but their top-five rankings ensure lasting impact.
Virat Kohli’s throne is unchallenged: 1,292 runs in 35 matches, 33 innings (2012-2024), averaging 58.72 with 15 fifties. Rohit Sharma trails with 1,220 runs in 47 matches, 44 innings (2007-2024), 12 fifties at 34.85.
Both Indians retired on a high after 2024’s victory. Third is Mahela Jayawardene (1,016 runs, 31 matches, 2007-2014; 1 ton, 6 fifties). Jos Buttler (1,013 runs, 35 matches, 34 innings, 2012-2024; 1 ton, 5 fifties) is poised for 2026 glory as the sole active top-fiver.
David Warner’s 984 runs in 41 innings (2009-2024) with 8 fifties caps the list. These records highlight T20’s batting revolution, setting the stage for Buttler to potentially ascend amid fierce global competition.