Discover the formats of the Asia Cup played to date and the teams that have dominated Asia’s premier cricket tournament. Explore year-wise winners, top run-scorers, and wicket-takers. Discover the stars who shaped Asia’s biggest cricket tournament, who have dazzled fans with their brilliant performances.

Introduction

Since its inception in 1984, the Asia Cup—Asia’s premier cricket tournament—has witnessed some unforgettable moments and stellar performances. What began as a small competition has evolved into a major event conducted by the Asian Cricket Council (ACC), showcasing top teams from across the continent.

Over the years, many cricketers have transformed from great players into legends of the game through their performances in this tournament. The format alternates between ODI and T20 formats depending on the year’s World Cup schedule, bringing together Asia’s best teams for thrilling battles.

Top Players in History

Batsmen- Asia Cup batting records

1. Sanath Jayasuriya (Sri Lanka)

A true legend of the game, Sanath Jayasuriya dominated the tournament with incredible consistency, making him the top batsman in its history.

• Runs: 1,220 in 25 matches

• Average: 53.04 | Strike Rate: 102.5

• 100s/50s: 6/3 (Most centuries in Asia Cup history)

Jayasuriya remains the highest run-scorer in Asia Cup ODI history.

2. Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka)

One of the greatest wicketkeeper-batsmen ever, Kumar Sangakkara was a consistent match-winner for Sri Lanka both with bat and behind the stumps.

• Runs: 1,075

• Average: 48.86

• 100s/50s: 4/8

3. Virat Kohli (India)

Virat Kohli holds legendary status across formats and shines in major tournaments. He has the highest individual score in the tournament history.

• Runs: 742 in 15 matches

• Average: 61.83 | 100s: 3

• Highest Score: 183 vs Pakistan (2012)

• T20 Runs: 429 in 10 matches (2016–2022)

4. Rohit Sharma (India)

India’s T20 World Cup-winning captain is known for his aggressive batting style and key performances, both ODI and T20.

• Runs: 939 in 28 matches

• Average: 46.95 | 100s/50s: 1/9

• T20 Runs: 271

5. Sachin Tendulkar (India)

No list is complete without the God of Cricket. Tendulkar was a champion in the ODI format and often carried India to victory single-handedly.sana

• Runs: 971

• Average: 51.10

• 100s/50s: 2/7

Note: Sachin never played in a T20 format for this event 

Bowlers

Asia Cup bowling records

Muttiah Muralitharan (Sri Lanka)

The highest wicket-taker in Asia Cup history, Muralitharan thrived in subcontinental conditions, taking crucial wickets with his spin.

• Wickets: 30

• Best Bowling: 5/31

• Average: 28.83 | Economy: 3.75

Note: Like Tendulkar, Murali did not play T20 Asia Cups.

Lasith Malinga (Sri Lanka)

Malinga took 29 wickets in 14 matches, known for his lethal yorkers and ability to perform at all stages of the game. He holds the record for most five-wicket hauls in Asia Cup history (3).

• Wickets: 29

• Best Bowling: 5/34

• Average: 20

Ajantha Mendis (Sri Lanka)

The mystery spinner stunned everyone, especially with his legendary 2008 final performance.

• Wickets: 26 in 8 matches

• Average: 10.42

• Best Bowling: 6/13 (2008 Final)

Ravindra Jadeja (India)

India’s top white-ball all-rounder, Jadeja’s left-arm spin and game awareness have made him a modern-day cricketing asset, also shining in T20 formats.

• Matches: 23

• Wickets: 29

• Economy: 4.3

• Also a valuable batsman and fielder.

Shakib Al Hasan (Bangladesh)

One of the leading all-rounders in modern cricket, Shakib has been a key performer for Bangladesh in Asia Cups.

• Matches: 26

• Wickets: 29

• Economy: 4.3

Asia Cup Format Evolution – champions list

Asia Cup Winners by Country –

What’s Next for the Asia Cup? –

2025 preview

• The next Asia Cup (2025) is expected to follow the T20 format, ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup.

• With emerging teams like Afghanistan and Bangladesh growing stronger, we may witness new finalists and champions soon.

Summary

The Asia Cup has been a showcase of cricketing excellence, producing unforgettable matches and players who have made history. From record-breaking batting performances to match-winning bowling spells, the tournament continues to be a stage where Asia’s best compete fiercely.

Our website : supersports360.com

Trending Article:

Asia Cup India Squad 

Boycott Asia Cup 

Top 2 Women Cricketers To Watch This World Cup

Women’s World Cup Preview – Dominant Australia 

When a cricket captain reversed the batting Line up

Bowlers- Economy rate vs Strike rate

MasterClass in Fielding Positions 

Art of swing bowling 

Join us on Twitter (x) : @360supersports