We take a look at the top 5 best cricketers – batters in the world and take into account the leading run-scorers in Test cricket.
While the definition of being the best cricketer is very subjective, in this article we look at the averages and runs of players who have played a minimum of 100 Test matches. Test matches are still considered the pinnacle format and the players who have been successful in this format have shown the technique and temperament to ace all conditions.
Here we take a look at the top 5 run scorers in Test cricket – batters who were successful in all conditions against the top-notch bowlers.
Sachin Tendulkar
The former Indian batter is considered to be the best batter to have ever played the game. In a career that spanned almost 25 years, Tendulkar featured in 200 Test matches. In these record number of appearances, he scored 15921 runs at an average of 53.78. The batting maestro notched up 51 Test centuries along with 68 half-centuries.
Ricky Ponting
The former Australian captain is considered to be the best batter in his country – possibly second only to Donald Bradman. In 168 matches, he scored 13378 runs at an average of 51.85. In his career, the right-hander scored 41 centuries and 52 fifties.
Jacques Kallis
The former South Africa all-rounder is arguably the most complete cricketer to have played the game. He was a pillar of South Africa for almost 18 years and featured in 166 Test matches. In these matches, he scored 13289 runs at an average of 55.37. The South African legend amassed 45 centuries and 58 half-centuries.
Rahul Dravid
The former India captain and current head coach of Team India, Rahul Dravid was the perfect Test batter. In a career that spanned 16 years, Dravid featured in 164 matches where he scored 13288 runs at an average of 52.31. Dravid scored 36 tons and 63 half-centuries.
Alastair Cook
The former England captain is the best Test opener to have donned the England jersey. A defiant batter, the left-hander featured in 161 matches where he scored 12472 at an average of 45.35. The left-hander scored 33 tons and 57 half-centuries.
