Batting averages in Test cricket are one of the most reliable measures of a player’s consistency and skill. A high batting average indicates the ability to score runs across varying conditions, bowlers, and match situations. This article dives into the Best Batting Averages in Test Cricket, showcasing players who have excelled in the longest format of the game. We have included below the Tabulated list of players.
Summary Table: Best Batting Averages in Test Cricket
| Rank | Player | Country | Matches | Runs | Batting Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sir Donald Bradman | Australia | 52 | 6,996 | 99.94 |
| 2 | Harry Brook | England | 12 | 1,181 | 62.15 |
| 3 | Adam Voges | Australia | 20 | 1,485 | 61.87 |
| 4 | Graeme Pollock | South Africa | 23 | 2,256 | 60.97 |
| 5 | George Headley | West Indies | 22 | 2,190 | 60.83 |
| 6 | Herbert Sutcliffe | England | 54 | 4,555 | 60.73 |
| 7 | Eddie Paynter | England | 20 | 1,540 | 59.23 |
| 8 | Ken Barrington | England | 82 | 6,806 | 58.67 |
| 9 | Everton Weekes | West Indies | 48 | 4,455 | 58.61 |
| 10 | Steve Smith | Australia | 102 | 9,320 | 58.61 |
These players represent different eras and nations, yet all share one thing in common: their outstanding ability with the bat.
1. Sir Donald Bradman
Sir Donald Bradman is widely regarded as the greatest cricketer of all time. His unmatched Batting Averages in Test Cricket stand at an extraordinary 99.94, accumulated over 52 Test matches where he scored 6,996 runs. This incredible feat remains unparalleled in the history of the game. Bradman’s career featured 29 centuries and 13 half-centuries, with his highest score being 334.
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2. Harry Brook
Harry Brook, a rising star in England cricket, has already made an incredible impact. In 12 Test matches, Brook has scored 1,181 runs with an impressive Batting Averages in Test Cricket of 62.15. His record includes 4 centuries and 7 half-centuries, with a top score of 186.
3. Adam Voges
Adam Voges had a short yet spectacular career, finishing with an impressive Batting Averages in Test Cricket of 61.87. In 20 Test matches, he scored 1,485 runs with 5 centuries and 4 half-centuries. His highest score was an unbeaten 269*.
4. Graeme Pollock
Graeme Pollock, one of South Africa’s finest-ever cricketers, showcased exceptional consistency with one of the best Batting Averages in Test Cricket. In 23 Test matches, he scored 2,256 runs at an average of 60.97. His career included 7 centuries and 11 half-centuries, with a highest score of 274.
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5. George Headley
Often referred to as the “Black Bradman,” George Headley was a pillar of West Indian cricket in the early 20th century. Headley played 22 matches, scoring 2,190 runs at an average of 60.83, making him one of the highest Batting Averages in Test Cricket. His achievements include 10 centuries and 5 half-centuries, with a top score of 270*.
6. Herbert Sutcliffe
Herbert Sutcliffe was another English batsman known for his solid technique. In 54 Tests, he amassed 4,555 runs with an impressive Batting Average in Test Cricket of 60.73. Sutcliffe scored 16 centuries and 23 half-centuries, with his highest score being 194.
7. Eddie Paynter
Eddie Paynter, an attacking batsman from England, played 20 Test matches, scoring 1,540 runs at an average of 59.23. Known for his resilience, Paynter’s impressive Batting Averages in Test Cricket helped him stand out among his peers. His highest Test score was 243, further highlighting his ability to perform in the longest format of the game.
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8. Ken Barrington
Ken Barrington’s reputation as a reliable middle-order batsman is well-deserved. Over 82 Test matches, he scored 6,806 runs, maintaining one of the most impressive Batting Averages in Test Cricket at 58.67. Barrington notched 20 centuries and 35 half-centuries, with a highest score of 256.
9. Everton Weekes
Everton Weekes, one of the legendary West Indian “Three Ws,” played 48 Test matches, scoring 4,455 runs with an average of 58.61. His impressive Batting Averages in Test Cricket made him one of the finest players of his era. Weekes’ career included 15 centuries and 19 half-centuries, with a highest score of 207.
10. Steve Smith
Steve Smith has indeed been one of the most successful modern-day Test batsmen. As of September 2024, he has scored 9,320 runs in 102 Test matches with 32 centuries and 39 half-centuries. His impressive Batting Averages in Test Cricket, standing at 58.61, reflects his consistency and adaptability across various conditions.
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