Top 10 Test Cricket Players of 2024: A Look at the Best in the Game
Test cricket remains the pinnacle of the sport, demanding skill, patience, and determination from its players. As of 2024, several cricketers have distinguished themselves as the top performers in this format. Here’s a look at the top 10 Test cricket players who have made their mark this year.
1. Kane Williamson (New Zealand)
Kane Williamson continues to be a pillar of strength for New Zealand. His impeccable technique, coupled with a calm and composed demeanor, makes him one of the most reliable batsmen in world cricket. In 2024, Williamson has consistently scored runs, often playing match-winning knocks. His ability to adapt to different conditions and bowlers sets him apart, making him the top-ranked Test batsman.
batting : Total runs 8743. /Batting avg 54.98. /Strike rate 51.41 H.score vs West Indies(251)03/12/2020
bowling: Total wickets 30. /Bowling avg 40.23. /Maidens 48. Best Figures vs England (4/44) 22/03/2013
2. Joe Root (England)
Joe Root has been a standout performer for England in recent years, and 2024 is no different. His mastery of spin, combined with his resilience against pace, has allowed him to score prolifically in all conditions. Root’s leadership skills have also been on display, guiding England through challenging series with his bat leading the charge.
batting :- Total runs 12131 /Batting avg 50.33 /Strike rate56.70 / H.score vs Pakistan(254) 22/07/2016
bowling : – Total wickets 69. /Bowling avg 45.07. /Maidens 158. Best Figures vs India (5/8) 24/02/2021
3. Pat Cummins (Australia)
Pat Cummins, the Australian Test captain, is currently the best fast bowler in the world. His ability to generate pace, bounce, and movement off the pitch makes him a nightmare for batsmen. Cummins has been instrumental in Australia’s success, often breaking crucial partnerships and leading the bowling attack with his relentless accuracy.
Batting : – Total runs 1295. /Batting avg 17.03. /Strike rate 44.59 Highest Score vs West Indies(64)25/01/2024
Bowling : – Total wickets 269. /Bowling avg 22.53. /Maidens 464 Best Figure vs Sri Lanka(6/23) 24/01/2019
4. Babar Azam (Pakistan)
Babar Azam’s rise in Test cricket has been nothing short of spectacular. Known for his elegant stroke play and impeccable timing, Babar has been Pakistan’s mainstay in the batting order. His performances in 2024 have been remarkable, with centuries against top bowling attacks, showcasing his class and temperament.
batting : – Total runs 3920. /Batting avg 45.05. /Strike rate 54.77. H.score vs Australia (196)12/03/2022
bowling : – Total wickets 2. /Bowling avg 21.00. /Maidens 2. Best Figures vs Bangladesh (1/1)04/12/2021
5. Steve Smith (Australia)
Steve Smith is a modern-day great in Test cricket. His unorthodox technique, combined with an insatiable appetite for runs, makes him one of the toughest batsmen to dismiss. Smith’s ability to score big and anchor the innings has been crucial for Australia, especially in challenging situations.
batting : – Total runs9685. /Batting avg 56.97. /Strike rate 53.50. H.score vs England (239)14/12/2017
bowling: – Total wickets 19./Bowling avg 53.05. /Maidens 28. Best Figures vs England(3/18) 18/07/2013
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6. Marnus Labuschagne (Australia)
Marnus Labuschagne has quickly risen through the ranks to become one of the best Test batsmen in the world. His consistent performances have made him a vital cog in Australia’s batting lineup. Labuschagne’s ability to grind out runs and his hunger for big scores have seen him notch up impressive numbers in 2024.
Batting : – total runs4114./Batting avg 49.56 /Strike rate52.68 H.core vs New Zealand (215) 03/01/2020
Bowling : – total wickets 13. /Bowling avg 58.23. /Maidens 19 Best Figures vs Pakistan(3/45) 16/10/2018
7. Shaheen Afridi (Pakistan)
Shaheen Afridi has emerged as one of the most feared fast bowlers in world cricket. His ability to swing the ball at pace and his knack for taking wickets in crucial moments have made him a key player for Pakistan. Afridi’s performances in 2024 have been exceptional, often turning games in Pakistan’s favor with his deadly spells.
Batting : Total runs 213. /Batting avg 7.34. /Strike rate 43.20 H.score vs Bangladesh (29)21/08/2024
Bowling: – total wickets 115. /Bowling avg 27.08. /Maidens 205 Best Figure vs West Indies(6/51)20/08/2021
8. Virat Kohli (India)
Virat Kohli may not be as dominant as he once was, but he remains a formidable force in Test cricket. His passion, intensity, and ability to score runs under pressure make him one of the best in the world. In 2024, Kohli has shown glimpses of his vintage form, playing crucial innings for India.
Batting: – total runs 8848. /Batting avg 49.15. /Strike rate 55.56 H.core vs South Africa (256)10/10/2019
9. Ben Stokes (England)
Ben Stokes is the ultimate all-rounder in Test cricket. His ability to change the course of a match with both bat and ball makes him invaluable to England. Stokes’ heroics in 2024 have included match-winning performances that underline his status as one of the best Test players in the world.
Batting : – total runs 6508. /Batting avg 35.75. /Strike rate 59.52 H.score vs South Africa (258) 02/01/2016
Bowling : – total wickets203. /Bowling avg 32.04. /Maidens 350 Best Figures vs West Indies (6/22) 07/09/2017
10. Ravichandran Ashwin (India)
Ravichandran Ashwin continues to be India’s premier spinner in Test cricket. His ability to outfox batsmen with his variations and his knack for taking wickets on any surface have made him one of the top bowlers in the world. Ashwin’s contributions with the bat add to his value, making him a true match-winner for India.
Batting: – total runs 3309. /Batting avg 26.26. /Strike rate 53.85 Highest Score vs West Indies(124) 06/11/2013
Bowling : – Total wickets516. /Bowling avg 23.75. /Maidens 889 Best Figure vs New Zealand (7/59) 08/10/2016
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Conclusion
The year 2024 has seen some incredible performances in Test cricket, with players from different countries showcasing their talents on the global stage. The top 10 Test players listed above have not only dominated the statistics but have also played pivotal roles in their teams’ successes. As Test cricket continues to evolve, these players are likely to leave an indelible mark on the history of the game.