When you think of IPL run machines, your brain probably shouts Chris Gayle, whispers Virat Kohli, and maybe hums a little tune for AB de Villiers. But hold on, because what if I told you that an unassuming Indian opener quietly outpaced some of the biggest names in IPL history? Yup, it's time to dive into the world of IPL’s sneaky run-getters — the top 5 players with the most runs in their first 30 IPL innings. Some are obvious, some are “Wait, who?”, and one might just blow your cricket-loving mind.
#5 – Matthew Hayden: The Bold Bulldozer from Down Under
Coming in hot at number 5 is the original CSK beast, Matthew Hayden. With a willow thicker than a railway sleeper, he scored 1082 runs in his first 30 knocks. The Aussie powerhouse played for just a single franchise throughout his IPL career and helped turn CSK into a trophy-hoarding juggernaut before walking off into the sunset.
#4 – Kane Williamson: The Gentleman Run-Machine
In fourth, it’s Kane Williamson — aka the calmest man in a stadium of 40,000 screaming fans. He might not have been picked up by any IPL franchise in the 2025 season, Williamson made a statement early on with 1096 runs in 30 innings. His peak? The 2018 season, when he casually scored 735 runs like it was no big deal, finishing as the Orange Cap holder. Elegance with a bat, and probably with a teacup too.
#3 – Chris Gayle: The Six-Hitting Saga Begins
At number 3, it’s the one and only Chris “Universe Boss” Gayle. His early days were quiet, but once he hit the accelerator, he basically turned bowlers into bowling machines. With 1141 runs in his first 30 innings, Gayle didn’t just bat — he demolished. Gayle amassed 1141 runs in his first 30 IPL innings and scored 608 runs in the 2011 edition and smashing over 700 runs each in the next two seasons. From KKR to RCB to KXIP, he left a trail of broken records and terrified bowlers.
#2 – Sai Sudharsan: The Stealth Star
Now here’s the plot twist! At number 2, it’s Sai Sudharsan — the guy who’s been scoring faster than your Uber Eats order. With 1307 runs in just 30 innings, this Gujarat Titans star has quietly outscored legends while staying completely under the radar. He’s consistent, classy, and apparently allergic to failure. Keep an eye on him — he might just rewrite some record books.
#1 – Shaun Marsh: The Forgotten King of Punjab
And at number 1… wait for it… it’s Shaun Marsh! Remember him? The OG IPL stat padder who rocked that Kings XI jersey like it was armor. With 1338 runs in his first 30 innings, Marsh didn’t just arrive — he conquered. No flashy celebrations, no weird hairstyles, just good ol’ Aussie grit and textbook cover drives. He never played for any other team and honestly, didn’t need to.
