Sanju Samson holds the no. 3 crown in IPL with second-most runs in that role

Akshita Patel

Most runs in IPL at no. 3 [Source: @RajeshSreerag, @CricCrazyJohns/X.com]Most runs in IPL at no. 3 [Source: @RajeshSreerag, @CricCrazyJohns/X.com]

Sanju Samson has quietly established himself as one of the most consistent performers at the No. 3 spot in IPL history. Playing primarily for the Rajasthan Royals, he has been the definition of anchor.

Samson has piled up significant runs at No. 3, so much so that he ranks in the top 5 of the elite list.

On that note, here’s a look at the top five highest run-scorers at No. 3 in IPL history.

5. Manish Pandey – 1942 runs

5. Manish Pandey – 1942 runs [Source: @IPL/X.com]5. Manish Pandey – 1942 runs [Source: @IPL/X.com]

Span: 2008–2023 | Matches: 73 | Average: 32.36 | Strike Rate: 124.72

Manish Pandey, one of the IPL’s earliest Indian centurions, has quietly built an impressive record at No. 3. Pandey often held innings together in crunch situations with a calm temperament. While he hasn’t been as explosive as some on this list, his 14 half-centuries reflect on his value as a dependable top-order batter across multiple franchises.

4. AB de Villiers - 2188 runs

4. AB de Villiers - 2188 runs [Source: @RCBTweets/X.com]4. AB de Villiers - 2188 runs [Source: @RCBTweets/X.com]

Span: 2008–2021 | Matches: 60 | Average: 48.62 | Strike Rate: 154.08

AB de Villiers is the man who could hit the ball anywhere. Even though he batted across multiple positions, his record at No. 3 is phenomenal. With 3 centuries and 18 fifties, the South African legend scored runs at an astonishing strike rate of 154. 

Whether it was scooping yorkers for six or punishing spinners over extra cover, ABD made batting look effortless. Few could match his combination of innovation and power.

3. Virat Kohli - 2815 runs

3. Virat Kohli - 2815 runs [Source: @ImTanujSingh/X.com]3. Virat Kohli - 2815 runs [Source: @ImTanujSingh/X.com]

Span: 2008–2022 | Matches: 93 | Average: 35.18 | Strike Rate: 123.79

Before becoming RCB’s full-time opener, Virat Kohli made the No. 3 position his own. With supreme intensity and precise shot selection, Kohli’s performances in the middle order shaped many RCB chases. 

The calm presence of Kohli at No. 3, with 20 fifties and a number of match-winning partnerships, has been very important during the golden years for RCB. Kohli’s ability to rotate strike and accelerate late in the innings made him one of the toughest batters to bowl to in the IPL. 

2. Sanju Samson - 3096 runs

2. Sanju Samson - 3096 runs [Source: @OneCricketApp/X.com]2. Sanju Samson - 3096 runs [Source: @OneCricketApp/X.com]

Span: 2013–2025 | Matches: 95 | Average: 38.22 | Strike Rate: 143.33

Sanju Samson has evolved from a young, fearless striker to one of the most complete IPL batters. Playing largely at No. 3 for Rajasthan Royals, Samson has blended power with grace, able to anchor and finish innings. 

His three centuries and 20 half-centuries show his ability to dominate bowlers in any condition. With a healthy strike rate of 143, he has been the backbone of RR’s batting lineup and continues to chase Raina’s long-standing record.

1. Suresh Raina - 4934 runs

1. Suresh Raina - 4934 runs [Source: @Sivy_Raina3/X.com]1. Suresh Raina - 4934 runs [Source: @Sivy_Raina3/X.com]

Span: 2008–2021 | Matches: 173 | Average: 33.56 | Strike Rate: 137.62

There’s a reason Suresh Raina is called Mr. IPL. The stylish left-hander dominated the league for more than a decade, consistently scoring runs for Chennai Super Kings at the No. 3 position. With 4934 runs and 37 fifties, Raina is still the undisputed king of this one-down slot. 

His elegant strokeplay, quick running, and knack for scoring in pressure situations made him one of the most reliable batters in IPL history. A highest score of an unbeaten 100 is just a glimpse of his class and consistency.