The year 2024 has been exceptional for batsmen in Test cricket, showcasing remarkable resilience and brilliance under challenging conditions. Their outstanding performances underscored their dedication to excelling in the longest format of the game, drawing fans to stadiums worldwide.
Remarkably, six batsmen crossed the 1000-run mark in Tests in 2024, with two of them surpassing an incredible 1400 runs.
5. Kamindu Mendis (Sri Lanka) – 1049 Runs
Kamindu Mendis had a stellar debut year in Test cricket for Sri Lanka, making an immediate impact in 2024. He became the fastest Asian batter to score five Test centuries, accomplishing the feat in just 13 innings. His remarkable performances earned him the ICC Men’s Player of the Month award for September 2024.
Mendis scored 1049 runs in nine Tests, averaging 74.92, with five centuries and three fifties. His highest score was an unbeaten 182*. Throughout the year, he struck 108 fours and 21 sixes, the second-most in Test cricket in 2024.
4. Harry Brook (England) – 1100 Runs
Harry Brook was the only batter to register a triple century in Test cricket in 2024. Combining technical prowess with aggressive stroke play, Brook has been a reliable middle-order performer for England.
In 12 Tests and 20 innings, Brook amassed 1100 runs at an average of 55. His highest score, a phenomenal 317, came against Pakistan. Brook notched four centuries and three fifties, hitting 105 fours and 14 sixes. Known for playing under pressure, his counterattacking style has been a game-changer for England, making him a key figure in their batting lineup.
3. Ben Duckett (England) – 1149 Runs
Ben Duckett’s resurgence in the Bazball era has solidified his place as a vital opener for England in 2024. Renowned for his adaptability and aggressive approach, Duckett produced crucial performances both at home and abroad.
In 13 Tests, Duckett scored 1149 runs at an average of 37.06. His best innings was a knock of 153, and he tallied two centuries and six fifties. Duckett’s 153 fours were the highest by any batter in 2024, complemented by seven sixes. His fearless approach against pace and spin alike makes him a cornerstone of England’s batting lineup.
2. Yashasvi Jaiswal (India) – 1478 Runs
Yashasvi Jaiswal continued his rise as one of India’s most dependable Test openers in 2024. Building on his debut year in 2023, Jaiswal impressed with his aggressive yet composed batting style, making him a fixture at the top of the order.
Jaiswal scored 1478 runs in 15 Tests, averaging 54.74, with three centuries and nine fifties. His highest score of 214* was one of two double centuries he registered against England. Jaiswal’s 36 sixes were the most in a calendar year in Test cricket, further showcasing his penchant for big-hitting and adaptability across conditions.
1. Joe Root (England) – 1556 Runs
Joe Root’s prolific form in Test cricket remained undiminished in 2024, as the seasoned campaigner continued his dominance with the bat. Root, who has been in a purple patch since 2021, delivered pivotal innings against top bowling attacks.
In 17 Tests, Root amassed 1556 runs at an average of 55.57. He scored six centuries and five fifties, with a top score of 262 against Pakistan. Root’s ability to anchor innings while accelerating when required has made him the fulcrum of England’s batting. His adaptability to the Bazball philosophy has further enhanced his stature as one of the modern greats in Test cricket.