Who holds the record for the highest centuries in international cricket? Scoring centuries is a mark of brilliance and consistency in the sport. This blog highlights cricket legends who have achieved this remarkable feat, showcasing their contributions to the game and the milestones cemented their legacy in cricket history. Here is the list of players with the most hundreds in international cricket. 

List of Top 10 Players With Highest Centuries in International Cricket

1. SR Tendulkar
2. Virat Kohli
3. RT Ponting
4. KC Sangakkara
5. JH Kallis
6. HM Amla
7. DPMD Jayawardene
8. Brian Lara
9. JE Root
10. DA Warner

Disclaimer: Best Diplomats is not an expert in this particular field. All data is taken from ESPNcricinfo.

1) SR Tendulkar

Sachin Tendulkar, the “God of Cricket,” dominated the game from 1989 to 2013. Playing 664 matches across formats, he scored a staggering 34,357 runs. His highest score was an unbeaten 248, showcasing his brilliance. With an average of 48.52, he hit 100 centuries and 164 fifties, a record unmatched in cricket history. Tendulkar’s consistency and dedication were evident in his 782 innings, with 74 not-outs. Despite his success, he also faced 34 ducks, proving even legends have tough days. His career remains an inspiration, setting benchmarks for future cricketers worldwide. A true icon of the sport!

2) Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli has been a cricketing powerhouse since his debut in 2008. Across 540 matches, he has amassed 27,257 runs with an impressive average of 52.72. His highest score of 254* reflects his ability to dominate bowlers. Kohli has smashed 81 centuries and 141 fifties, establishing himself as one of the greatest batsmen ever. In 605 innings, he remained not out 88 times, demonstrating his finishing prowess. Despite 38 ducks in his career, his consistency and hunger for runs have redefined modern cricket. Kohli continues to inspire millions with his passion and determination.

3) RT Ponting

Ricky Ponting was a cornerstone of Australian cricket from 1995 to 2012. In 560 matches, he scored 27,483 runs with an average of 45.95. His highest score of 257 highlighted his skill and determination. Across 668 innings, he remained not out 70 times. Ponting’s tally of 71 centuries and 146 fifties showcased his consistency and ability to deliver under pressure. While he had 39 ducks in his career, his aggressive style and leadership made him a cricketing legend. Ponting’s contribution to the game extended beyond runs, as he led Australia to unparalleled dominance during his era.

4) KC Sangakkara

Kumar Sangakkara was a pillar of Sri Lankan cricket from 2000 to 2015. In 594 matches, he scored 28,016 runs with an impressive average of 46.77. His highest score of 319 showcased his mastery of the bat. Across 666 innings, he remained not out 67 times. Sangakkara recorded 63 centuries and 153 fifties, highlighting his consistency and elegance at the crease. With only 28 ducks in his career, he was one of the most reliable batsmen of his time. Sangakkara’s contributions went beyond runs, as he was also an exceptional wicketkeeper and leader for his team.

5) JH Kallis

Jacques Kallis was one of cricket’s finest all-rounders, playing from 1995 to 2014. In 519 matches, he scored 25,534 runs at an excellent average of 49.10. His highest score of 224 highlighted his dominance with the bat. Across 617 innings, he remained not out 97 times, underlining his resilience. Kallis registered 62 centuries and 149 fifties, making him one of the most consistent players in cricket history. With just 33 ducks in his career, he was a dependable performer for South Africa. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball made him a true legend of the game.

6) HM Amla

Hashim Amla was a graceful and consistent batsman who played from 2004 to 2019. In 349 matches, he scored 18,672 runs at an impressive average of 46.56. His highest score of 311* remains one of the finest innings in cricket history. Over 437 innings, he stayed not out 36 times, showcasing his reliability. Amla’s career included 55 centuries and 88 fifties, highlighting his ability to anchor innings and score big. With only 19 ducks, he was one of South Africa’s most dependable players. Amla’s calm demeanor and elegant stroke play earned him widespread respect in the cricketing world.

7) DPMD Jayawardene

Mahela Jayawardene, a stalwart of Sri Lankan cricket, played from 1997 to 2015. In 652 matches, he scored 25,957 runs with an average of 39.15. His highest score of 374 is a testament to his skill and endurance. Across 725 innings, he remained not out 62 times, reflecting his consistency. Jayawardene accumulated 54 centuries and 136 fifties, establishing himself as one of Sri Lanka’s most prolific batsmen. With 47 ducks, he had his share of struggles, but his overall contribution to the team was immense. Jayawardene’s leadership and elegant stroke play made him a cricketing legend.

8) Brian Lara

Brian Lara, one of the greatest batsmen in cricket history, played from 1990 to 2007. In 430 matches, he scored 22,358 runs with an average of 46.28. His highest score of 400* remains the highest individual score in a Test match. Across 521 innings, Lara remained not out 38 times. He recorded 53 centuries and 111 fifties, showcasing his consistency and ability to play big innings. With 33 ducks in his career, Lara’s contribution to the West Indies was immense. His elegant stroke play and ability to dominate bowlers solidified his legacy as a cricketing legend.

9) JE Root

Joe Root, a key figure in English cricket since 2012, has made a remarkable impact. In 354 matches, he has scored 20,301 runs with an average of 48.91. His highest score of 262 demonstrates his ability to play long innings. Across 466 innings, Root remained not out 51 times. He has accumulated 52 centuries and 108 fifties, showcasing his consistency and adaptability. With just 24 ducks in his career, Root has been one of the most dependable batsmen for England. His ability to perform in various conditions and formats has made him one of the modern greats.

10) DA Warner

David Warner, a dynamic opener for Australia, has been a prominent figure since 2009. In 383 matches, he has scored 18,995 runs with an average of 42.39. His highest score of 335* highlights his ability to play long, dominating innings. Across 474 innings, Warner remained not out 26 times. He has hit 49 centuries and 98 fifties, making him a consistent run-scorer. With only 23 ducks in his career, Warner has been a reliable performer for Australia. His aggressive style and ability to adapt across formats have made him one of the best openers in modern cricket.

No	Player	Country	Total International Centuries
1	SR Tendulkar	India	100
2	Virat Kohli	India	81
3	RT Ponting	Australia	71
4	KC Sangakkara	Sri Lanka	63
5	JH Kallis	South Africa	62
6	HM Amla	South Africa	55
7	DPMD Jayawardene	Sri Lanka	54
8	Brian Lara	West Indies	53
9	JE Root	England	52
10	DA Warner	Australia	49

Conclusion

What does it take to score the highest centuries in international cricket? It’s a blend of skill, determination, and longevity. By celebrating these cricketing icons, we honor their achievements and the unforgettable moments they’ve created, inspiring future generations to aim for greatness in the game.

FAQs

Who Has the World Record for Centuries?

Sachin Tendulkar holds the world record for the most centuries in international cricket, with 100 centuries (51 in Tests and 49 in ODIs)​.

Who Has the Most Centuries in ODI History?

Virat Kohli has the most centuries in ODI history, with 50 centuries. His ability to score centuries in the 50-over format has redefined modern-day cricket, making him one of the best finishers in the game.

How Many Times Did Virat Kohli Go Out on 99?

Virat Kohli has been dismissed on 99 runs a total of 1 time in international cricket. Although, he has been dismissed in the 90s six times in ODIs and twice in Tests.

How Is Godfather of Cricket?

Sachin Tendulkar is widely regarded as the “God of Cricket” due to his unparalleled achievements, which include being the first to score 100 international centuries, the most runs in both ODIs and Tests and numerous other records.