The Asia Cup ODI tournament has been a breeding ground for some of the finest cricketing talents in the continent. Over the years, fans have witnessed remarkable performances from batsmen who have left an indelible mark on the competition. Today, we delve into the history of the Asia Cup to celebrate the highest run-scorers in each edition of this prestigious tournament.
1. 1984 Asia Cup: Sunil Gavaskar (India) – 255 Runs
The inaugural Asia Cup in 1984 saw legendary Indian opener Sunil Gavaskar shine as the highest run-scorer. Gavaskar’s elegant strokes and impeccable technique helped him amass a total of 255 runs in the tournament.
2. 1986 Asia Cup: Saleem Malik (Pakistan) – 277 Runs
Saleem Malik, the Pakistani batting maestro, displayed his class in the 1986 Asia Cup. With a total of 277 runs, he was the leading run-scorer in the tournament, playing crucial innings for his team.
3. 1988 Asia Cup: Navjot Singh Sidhu (India) – 284 Runs
Navjot Singh Sidhu, popularly known as “Sidhu Paaji,” was India’s batting sensation in the 1988 Asia Cup. His swashbuckling style and 284 runs in the tournament made him the top scorer.
4. 1990-91 Asia Cup: Roshan Mahanama (Sri Lanka) – 290 Runs
Sri Lanka’s Roshan Mahanama etched his name in the history books with his impressive performance in the 1990-91 Asia Cup. Mahanama’s 290 runs guided Sri Lanka to victory, and he emerged as the highest run-getter.
5. 1995 Asia Cup: Saeed Anwar (Pakistan) – 368 Runs
In the 1995 Asia Cup, Saeed Anwar displayed his extraordinary batting skills, amassing a whopping 368 runs. His consistency and ability to play match-winning innings set him apart.
6. 1997 Asia Cup: Sachin Tendulkar (India) – 320 Runs
The Little Master, Sachin Tendulkar, made his mark in the 1997 Asia Cup with 320 runs. Tendulkar’s sublime batting was a delight to watch, and he played crucial roles in India’s success.
7. 2000 Asia Cup: Rahul Dravid (India) – 321 Runs
Rahul Dravid, known for his classical style, was the top run-scorer in the 2000 Asia Cup with 321 runs. Dravid’s consistency was a pillar of strength for India.
8. 2004 Asia Cup: Shoaib Malik (Pakistan) – 246 Runs
Shoaib Malik’s dynamic batting helped him accumulate 246 runs in the 2004 Asia Cup. His contributions played a crucial part in Pakistan’s triumph.
9. 2008 Asia Cup: Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka) – 249 Runs
Kumar Sangakkara, one of Sri Lanka’s cricketing legends, was the highest run-scorer in the 2008 Asia Cup with 249 runs. His leadership and batting prowess were key to Sri Lanka’s success.
10. 2010 Asia Cup: Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka) – 317 Runs
Sangakkara continued his Asia Cup dominance in 2010, once again topping the run charts with 317 runs. His remarkable consistency made him a standout performer.
11. 2012 Asia Cup: Virat Kohli (India) – 357 Runs
A young Virat Kohli took center stage in the 2012 Asia Cup, amassing an impressive 357 runs. Kohli’s ability to chase down targets and play under pressure marked him as India’s batting sensation.
12. 2014 Asia Cup: Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka) – 405 Runs
In his final Asia Cup appearance, Kumar Sangakkara delivered a masterpiece, scoring 405 runs in the 2014 edition. His incredible form was instrumental in Sri Lanka’s triumph.
13. 2016 Asia Cup: Sabbir Rahman (Bangladesh) – 176 Runs
Bangladeshi batsman Sabbir Rahman was the top run-scorer in the 2016 Asia Cup with 176 runs. His aggressive strokeplay caught the attention of fans and experts alike.
14. 2018 Asia Cup: Shikhar Dhawan (India) – 342 Runs
Shikhar Dhawan was the star of the 2018 Asia Cup, accumulating 342 runs. His blazing form at the top of the order powered India to the title.
As we celebrate these batting heroes who have graced the Asia Cup, it’s a testament to the rich history and tradition of cricket in Asia. These run-getters have etched their names in the annals of cricketing greatness, leaving behind memories that fans will cherish for years to come.
