India’s top 5 Test batsmen over the last three years have showcased remarkable resilience and skill. From Rohit Sharma’s transformation as an opener to Rishabh Pant’s dynamic performances, these players have delivered crucial contributions in challenging conditions, solidifying India’s position as a formidable Test cricketing powerhouse.
5. Ajinkya Rahane (1461 runs at 33.97)
Ajinkya Rahane’s memorable century at the MCG in 2020, which shifted the momentum of the series, remains one of the finest by an Indian batter. However, it remains his only ton since 2020. After two centuries in 2019, Rahane’s form has been inconsistent, with occasional fifties. His average since 2021 has dropped to 20.25, leading to his exclusion from India’s best XI based on current form.
4. Virat Kohli (1373 runs at 38.11)
Virat Kohli, the first Asian captain to lead a Test series win in Australia in 2019, was in peak form until the end of that year, with notable centuries, including a double century against South Africa and his 70th international ton against Bangladesh. However, since then, fans have been eagerly waiting for his 71st century. Although Kohli has scored six high-quality half-centuries, he has struggled to convert any into a three-figure score.
3. Rishabh Pant (1198 runs at 39.93)
Rishabh Pant has been in exceptional form since his return to the Indian team after being dropped in 2019. He started that year with a century in Sydney, but was later dropped due to low scores. Pant made a spectacular comeback with memorable knocks in Sydney and Gabba, contributing to India’s historic series win. After a century against England, he went through a slump, but responded brilliantly with a terrific century in Cape Town earlier this year, silencing his critics.
2. Mayank Agarwal (1311 runs at 42.29)
Mayank Agarwal, though not a first-choice opener with KL Rahul and Rohit Sharma ahead of him, has made the most of the opportunities he’s received. Since 2019, he has scored five centuries, including two double centuries and a score of 150, showcasing his consistency and talent, particularly in India.
1.Rohit Sharma (1462 runs at 58.48)
Rohit Sharma, once doubted for his temperament and fitness in Test cricket, has now become India’s leading batsman and new captain. His career revival came in 2019 when he was moved to open, scoring three centuries, including a double, against South Africa. His impressive performances continued in Australia and England, making him India’s top Test run-scorer in 2021, including his first overseas Test century.
Player | Runs Scored | Batting Average |
Ajinkya Rahane | 1461 runs | 33.97 |
Virat Kohli | 1373 runs | 38.11 |
Rishabh Pant | 1198 runs | 39.93 |
Mayank Agarwal | 1311 runs | 42.29 |
Rohit Sharma | 1462 runs | 58.48 |