World Test Championship Most runs: Highest run-scorers in the WTC 2021-23 cycle

The World Test Championship has emerged as the pinnacle event in the realm of Test cricket, showcasing the finest talent from across the globe. The second edition of the WTC final is set to be an enthralling encounter between two cricketing powerhouses, India and Australia. Scheduled to take place at The Oval in London from June 7 to June 11, this clash promises to be a captivating showdown, renewing a long-standing rivalry between the two teams. In this article, we explore the list of World Test Championship most runs from batters.

As anticipation builds for this high-stakes encounter, it's imperative to take a closer look at the leading run-scorers of the WTC 2021-23 cycle. These players have exhibited remarkable skill, endurance, and consistency throughout the tournament, playing pivotal roles in their teams' success.

READ: India squad for WTC Final

India, who finished as runners-up in the inaugural WTC, will be determined to clinch the trophy this time around. Led by the astute Rohit Sharma, the Indian contingent will be keen to break their ICC trophy drought and etch their name in the annals of cricketing history.

In this article, we delve into the exceptional batsmen who have risen to the occasion during the WTC 2021-23. These individuals have showcased their mettle and demonstrated a deep understanding of the nuances of the longest format of the game. With their technical prowess, mental fortitude, and an unwavering hunger for runs, they have played pivotal roles in shaping the destiny of their respective teams.

Join us as we explore the standout performers who have left an indelible mark on the WTC 2021-23, amassing impressive run tallies and steering their teams towards the ultimate goal of Test cricket supremacy.

Here we go to the World Test Championship most runs list.

World Test Championship 2021-23 Highest Run-scorers
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Most Runs in WTC 2021-23

The following table represents the list of Top 10 players with most runs in WTC 2021-23. Let’s have a look:

Player Name Mat Inns Runs Avg 50s 100s Best
Joe Root (ENG) 22 40 1915 53.19 6 8 180
U Khawaja (AUS) 16 28 1608 69.91 7 6 195*
Babar Azam (PAK) 14 26 1527 61.08 10 4 196
M Labuschagne (AUS) 19 33 1509 53.89 5 5 204
J Bairstow (ENG) 15 28 1285 51.40 2 6 162
S Smith (AUS) 19 30 1252 50.08 6 3 200*
T Head (AUS) 17 26 1208 52.52 6 3 175
D Karunaratne (SL) 12 23 1054 47.90 8 2 147
L Das (BAN) 12 22 1024 46.54 6 3 141
K Brathwaite (WI) 13 26 994 43.21 7 2 160

WTC 2021-23: World Test Championship Most Runs

After having a look at the list of players with most runs in WTC 2021-23, it is now time to focus on the Top 5 Batsmen in the list in detail.

1. Joe Root:

In the highly competitive arena of Test cricket, few batsmen possess the skill, resilience, and consistency that Joe Root brings to the crease. As the curtains close on the World Test Championship 2021-23 cycle, it is the English batting maestro who emerges as the top run-scorer, leaving an indelible mark.

Representing his country in 22 matches throughout the WTC, Joe Root showcased his extraordinary talent, amassing a staggering 1915 runs at an impressive average of 53.19. His consistent run-scoring ability and unwavering determination made him a pillar of strength for the English side.

During this period, Root displayed his prowess with the bat, registering eight magnificent centuries and six valuable half-centuries. One standout performance that epitomized his brilliance was his unbeaten knock of 180 against India at the iconic Lord's Cricket Ground. Despite the loss, Root's innings showcased his class and fortitude in the face of a formidable Indian bowling attack.

2. Usman Khawaja:  

The WTC 2021-23 has witnessed the resurgence of many talented cricketers, and one such player who has revived his career with remarkable flair is Usman Khawaja. After a captivating performance as an opener in the 2021-22 Ashes series, Khawaja has etched his name among the highest run-scorers in the World Test Championship 2021-23.

Donning the baggy green for Australia in 16 matches, Usman Khawaja has exhibited his prowess at the top of the order, accumulating an impressive 1608 runs. His average of 69.91 stands as a testament to his consistency and ability to convert starts into substantial scores.

Among his notable achievements during the World Test Championship, Khawaja's unbeaten innings of 195 against South Africa in Sydney in 2023 shines as a testament to his extraordinary talent. The innings showcased his ability to dominate the opposition and construct a monumental score, leaving a lasting impact on the game.

With six centuries to his name, Usman Khawaja's contributions have been pivotal in Australia's quest for Test cricket supremacy. His ability to anchor the innings and provide a solid foundation has played a significant role in the team's success during the championship.

3. Babar Azam:

In the realm of modern-day cricket, Babar Azam has established himself as one of the most dynamic and gifted batsmen. The current captain of the Pakistan cricket team, Azam's run-scoring ability has seen him secure the third spot on the list of highest run-scorers in the World Test Championship 2021-23.

Across 14 matches, Babar Azam accumulated an impressive tally of 1527 runs, showcasing his unwavering commitment to his team's cause. Throughout this timespan, the elegant right-hander demonstrated his consistency, often leading from the front as Pakistan's captain.

Azam's remarkable batting form translated into ten half-centuries and four majestic centuries. However, despite his exceptional performances, Pakistan was unable to achieve success in the WTC 2021-23 edition.

4. Marnus Labuschagne:

In the fiercely competitive world of Test cricket, Marnus Labuschagne has emerged as a crucial component of the Australian lineup, showcasing his batting skills and unwavering determination. As the World Test Championship 2021-23 reaches its conclusion, Labuschagne finds himself in the fourth position among the highest run-scorers.

Having amassed 1509 runs in the championship, Labuschagne has proven to be a pillar of consistency for Australia. With an impressive average of 53.89, the right-handed top-order batsman has defied all odds and delivered impactful performances.

Labuschagne's run tally is adorned with five remarkable centuries and an equal number of half-centuries, underscoring his ability to convert promising starts into substantial contributions. His hunger for big scores and his ability to dominate opposition bowlers make him a formidable presence at the crease.

5. Jonny Bairstow:

Despite not featuring in any Test matches during the 2023 season, English wicket-keeper batsman Jonny Bairstow has managed to secure a respectable position on the esteemed list of highest run-scorers in the WTC 2021-23. Demonstrating his unwavering commitment to the sport, Bairstow's contributions in the 15 games he played were instrumental in England's success.

Bairstow accumulated a commendable total of 1285 runs, showcasing his ability to make an impact on the field. With an impressive average of 51.40, the veteran batter consistently displayed his ability to convert opportunities into valuable runs.

One standout innings that epitomized Bairstow's prowess was his scintillating knock of 162 off just 157 balls against New Zealand in Leeds during 2022. This innings not only showcased his exceptional strokeplay but also played a vital role in England's victory.

India at the WTC 2021-23

India has a rich history of exceptional batsmen who have left their mark on the world of cricket. The Indian Batsmen have scored a mountain of runs. But, this has not been the case of WTC 2021-23. 

Although India's batting lineage is filled with talent and technique, the Indian batsmen find themselves way down in the list of World Test Championship 2021-23 Highest run-scorers. The modern icons like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are 22nd and 32nd on the list. 

Cheteshwar Pujara occupies the 19th position in the list of highest run-scorers in the World Test Championship 2021-23.Pujara's unwavering resilience and ability to anchor the innings have made him a vital cog in India's batting lineup.

With 887 runs to his name from 30 innings, Pujara emerged as India's highest run-getter in the championship. Despite a relatively modest average of 32.85, Pujara's contributions were invaluable, including six half-centuries and one magnificent century with a highest score of 102*. Pujara's ability to dig deep, absorb pressure, and occupy the crease for long periods has been instrumental in India's success during the upcoming WTC Final.

Who will win the ICC World Test Championship Final 2023?

Australia at the WTC 2021-23

On the contrary to Team India, the Aussies lead the run-scoring charts for the WTC 2021-23 with 4 batsmen in the Top 10. Australia's batting lineup has made a significant impact in the WTC 2021-23 as Usman Khawaja, Steve Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, and Travis Head have all secured positions among the highest run-scorers. 

Usman Khawaja, who rejuvenated himself as an opener, occupies the second spot with 1608 runs at an impressive average of 69.91. Steve Smith has showcased his class with 1521 runs, displaying his ability to dominate opposition attacks. Marnus Labuschagne, known for his resilience, finds himself in the fourth spot with 1509 runs, while Travis Head has contributed with crucial innings, accumulating 1314 runs. 

Their performances have been instrumental in Australia's success in the WTC, showcasing their prowess and establishing their names among the premier batsmen in Test cricket. With the World Test Championship Final round the corner, the Aussie batsmen will need to carry this form if they are to win the Final against India.

RohitRohit

Rohit is an experienced cricket writer based in India