*Top 5 Run-Scorers – The Ford Trophy 2023-24

**Top 5 Run-Scorers – The Ford Trophy 2023-24**

1. **Robert O’Donnell (Auckland) – 635 Runs** 

Auckland’s Robert O’Donnell emerged as the leading run-scorer in the 2023-24 Ford Trophy, amassing 635 runs in 12 innings at an outstanding average of 70.55 and a strike rate of 82.04. O’Donnell faced 774 deliveries, hitting 63 fours and 13 sixes. He registered two centuries and four half-centuries, with a highest score of 115*, and remained unbeaten on three occasions.

2. **Finn Allen (Auckland) – 394 Runs** 

Finn Allen, also representing Auckland, finished second on the run charts with 394 runs in just 7 innings, boasting an impressive average of 56.28 and a strike rate of 123.51. Allen faced 319 balls, striking 40 boundaries and 19 sixes. His campaign included two centuries, with his best knock being a powerful 168.

3. **William O’Donnell (Auckland) – 357 Runs** 

Will O’Donnell secured the third spot among the tournament’s top scorers, accumulating 357 runs in 11 innings at an average of 35.70 and a strike rate of 72.85. Facing 490 deliveries, O’Donnell struck 26 fours and 8 sixes, with two half-centuries to his name. His highest score was an unbeaten 90*, and he remained not out once.

4. **Brad Schmulian (Central Districts) – 354 Runs** 

Central Districts’ Brad Schmulian placed fourth in the list of top run-getters with 354 runs from 9 innings. He averaged 50.57, striking at 79.37. Schmulian faced 446 deliveries, hitting 41 boundaries and 2 sixes. His tally included two centuries and a fifty, with a top score of 107*, and he was unbeaten once.

5. **Joe Carter (Auckland) – 350 Runs** 

Rounding off the top five is Auckland’s James Carter, who scored 350 runs in 10 innings at an average of 43.75 and a strike rate of 82.54. Carter faced 424 balls, striking 30 boundaries and 6 sixes. He registered one century and two half-centuries, with a highest score of 106* and remained not out three times.

This version maintains the key details but flows more naturally and adopts the tone of a professional cricket report.