Top 5 highest run-scorers in IPL history

#1 Virat Kohli (5412 runs)

Virat Kohli

At the top of the pile is none other than Virat Kohli.

There are almost no superlatives left in the dictionary to describe his incredible batting feats. Kohli, who is ranked No. 1 in the ICC ODI rankings and No. 2 in the Test rankings, continues to pile up the runs in international cricket.

But many people tend to forget that he has a superb IPL record as well. The RCB captain has scored 5,412 runs at an average of 37.84. He has already registered five centuries in the tournament (no mean feat when one considers the limited amount of overs and the tendency to hit the ball in the air). Four of those 100-plus scores came in a single year - 2016.

Kohli, considering his lofty standards, endured a disappointing start to his IPL career. He averaged 15, 22. 36 and 27.90 in the first three editions. But he enjoyed a breakthrough year in 2011, when he smashed 557 runs.

2016 was easily his best year. He scored 973 runs at an out-of-this-world average of 81.08, and dominated all bowling attacks in tandem with South Africa's AB de Villiers.

Currently, Kohli has 44 runs more to his name than Raina. It will be fascinating to witness their mini-battle in 2020, and to find out who will end the year as the all-time leading run-scorer in the IPL.