Top 5 Highest Run-Scorers in T20 Cricket: Kieron Pollard Surpasses Chris Gayle to Claim No. 1 Spot

Former West Indies all-rounder Kieron Pollard has added yet another remarkable achievement to his legendary T20 career, becoming the highest run-scorer in men's T20 cricket history.

The former captain of the Windies cricket team reached the landmark during his scintillating unbeaten century for MI New York against Washington Freedom in Major League Cricket (MLC) 2026 on Saturday (June 20).

Pollard smashed a six to move past fellow Caribbean great Chris Gayle and claim the top spot on the all-time T20 run-scoring charts.

Pollard now has 14,582 runs from 736 matches, overtaking Gayle's tally of 14,562 runs. The achievement further cements his status as one of the greatest players the shortest format has ever seen.

While Pollard's century came in a losing cause as MI New York fell 30 runs short of Washington Freedom's mammoth 245-run total, the day belonged to the veteran all-rounder, who became the first player to top the all-time T20 run-scoring list after playing more than 700 matches.

Here is a look at the top five highest run-scorers in T20 cricket history across international matches and domestic franchise leagues.

1. Kieron Pollard (West Indies) - 14,582 Runs

• Matches: 736
• Centuries: 2
• Half-centuries: 67

Pollard's longevity and consistency across nearly two decades have helped him reach the summit of T20 cricket. Known primarily as a destructive finisher, the Trinidadian has represented numerous franchises worldwide, including Mumbai Indians, MI New York, Adelaide Strikers, Barbados Tridents and Trinbago Knight Riders.

His unbeaten 100 against Washington Freedom in MLC 2026 took him past Chris Gayle and into first place on the all-time list.

2. Chris Gayle (West Indies) - 14,562 Runs

• Matches: 463
• Centuries: 22
• Half-centuries: 88

For years, Chris Gayle seemed untouchable at the top of the T20 run-scoring charts. Widely regarded as the greatest T20 batter of all time, the 'Universe Boss' revolutionised power-hitting in franchise cricket.

Gayle's 22 T20 centuries remain one of the most astonishing records in the format. His exploits for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, Jamaica Tallawahs, Punjab Kings and several other teams made him a global superstar.

3. Alex Hales (England) - 14,449 Runs

• Matches: 528
• Centuries: 7
• Half-centuries: 97

One of the most prolific openers in T20 history, Alex Hales has built his reputation through consistent performances across leagues around the world.

The Englishman has featured in the IPL, PSL, BBL, The Hundred and numerous other tournaments, becoming one of the most sought-after overseas players in franchise cricket.

Hales is also closing in on the 15,000-run milestone and remains among the most active players on the list.

4. Jos Buttler (England) - 14,371 Runs

• Matches: 510
• Centuries: 8
• Half-centuries: 102

England white-ball legend Jos Buttler is one of the most complete T20 batters of the modern era. Equally comfortable as an opener or finisher, Buttler combines power with innovation and consistency.

The Rajasthan Royals star has crossed the 14,000-run mark while maintaining one of the best strike rates among elite batters, making him one of the most feared players in world cricket.

5. David Warner (Australia) - 14,284 Runs

• Matches: 438
• Centuries: 10
• Half-centuries: 118

David Warner's aggressive style at the top of the order has made him one of the most successful T20 batters ever.

The Australian left-hander has enjoyed tremendous success in the IPL, BBL and international cricket. Warner's ability to dominate bowling attacks from the outset has helped him amass more than 14,000 runs despite playing significantly fewer matches than many of his contemporaries.

Top 5 Highest Run-Scorers in T20 Cricket

With Pollard now occupying the summit, the race for T20 cricket's all-time run-scoring crown enters a fascinating new chapter. While Gayle's reign at the top has finally ended, Pollard's extraordinary longevity and continued success in franchise leagues have earned him a place in cricketing history.