Test cricket, often referred to as the “purest” form of the game, is a test of a batsman’s technique, patience, and ability to perform under varying conditions. 2021 was a year marked by several remarkable individual performances in Test cricket, where top players showcased their prowess with the bat in some of the toughest and most challenging conditions across the globe.
This article takes a look at the top run-scorers in Test cricket in 2021, highlighting their key performances, records, and how their contributions shaped the outcomes of their respective teams. From record-breaking centuries to match-winning knocks, these players proved their mettle in the longest format of the game.
In 2021, Test cricket witnessed several thrilling series and high-stakes encounters, where the best of the cricketing world competed against each other. While teams like India, New Zealand, England, and Australia enjoyed their share of success, individual batsmen rose to the occasion, accumulating runs in bulk and putting their teams in commanding positions.
As the year progressed, players from all over the world demonstrated remarkable consistency and technical brilliance. Let’s look at the players who scored the most runs in Test cricket in 2021, and examine their individual achievements.
Top Performers in Test Cricket in 2021
1. Marnus Labuschagne (Australia)
Runs in 2021: 1,509
Matches Played: 14
Average: 72.85
Centuries: 5
Best Score: 215
Strike Rate: 50.20
Marnus Labuschagne, the Australian number 3, was the top run-scorer in Test cricket in 2021. With a stunning 1,509 runs, Labuschagne’s consistency was evident across all formats. His ability to grind it out in tough conditions and pile on runs has made him one of the best modern-day Test batsmen. In 2021, he registered five centuries, including a memorable 215 against New Zealand, which helped Australia to build a formidable total and win crucial matches. Labuschagne’s temperament, technique, and ability to convert starts into big scores were key to his success.
Highlights:
- Labuschagne’s 215 against New Zealand in January 2021 was the standout innings of his career in 2021.
- His 1,509 runs were instrumental in Australia’s successes, including their dominant win over India at home.
2. Joe Root (England)
Runs in 2021: 1,598
Matches Played: 15
Average: 64.72
Centuries: 6
Best Score: 218
Strike Rate: 56.93
Joe Root had an exceptional year in 2021, finishing as the second-highest run-scorer. Root scored 1,598 runs in 15 matches at an average of 64.72, and his consistency was one of the few positives for England during a challenging year. His six centuries, including a remarkable 218 against India at Lord’s, were the highlights of his year. Root was often the backbone of the English batting lineup, with many of his innings coming when the team needed him the most. His leadership and form played a vital role in several of England’s Test victories.
Highlights:
- Root’s 218 against India at Lord’s in August 2021 was one of the most memorable Test innings of the year.
- He was England’s standout performer in their home series against India, showcasing both grit and skill.
3. Kane Williamson (New Zealand)
Runs in 2021: 1,300
Matches Played: 11
Average: 81.25
Centuries: 4
Best Score: 251
Strike Rate: 50.10
Kane Williamson, New Zealand’s captain, is known for his elegance and calmness at the crease. His performances in 2021 were no different. Williamson scored 1,300 runs in 11 matches at an average of 81.25, the highest among the top run-scorers of the year. His standout innings was a magnificent 251 against India in the World Test Championship (WTC) final in June 2021. Williamson’s contribution was crucial to New Zealand’s triumph in the WTC final, and his ability to anchor the innings and score runs under pressure made him one of the most prolific Test batsmen of 2021.
Highlights:
- His 251 against India in the WTC final played a pivotal role in New Zealand’s victory, helping them clinch the inaugural World Test Championship title.
- Kane’s calm leadership and technical ability helped New Zealand perform exceptionally well in 2021.
4. Ajinkya Rahane (India)
Runs in 2021: 1,074
Matches Played: 13
Average: 42.96
Centuries: 2
Best Score: 115
Strike Rate: 50.10
Ajinkya Rahane was another Indian batsman who stood out in 2021. He scored 1,074 runs in 13 matches, playing an important role in India’s overseas success. Rahane’s performance in Australia, especially his match-winning century at the MCG, was one of the highlights of the year. While his form did dip in some series, Rahane remained an essential part of India’s middle order, providing valuable contributions when needed.
Highlights:
- Rahane’s 115 in the Boxing Day Test against Australia in 2020-21 was crucial in India’s historic series win in Australia.
- His ability to play in tough situations was a key feature of his 2021 performance.
5. Rishabh Pant (India)
Runs in 2021: 748
Matches Played: 10
Average: 41.55
Centuries: 2
Best Score: 101*
Strike Rate: 72.15
Rishabh Pant’s performances in 2021 were a revelation for India, with the wicketkeeper-batsman becoming one of the most exciting players to watch in Test cricket. Pant’s aggressive approach with the bat and his fearless attitude were highlighted in 2021, as he scored 748 runs at an average of 41.55. His ability to shift the momentum of the game quickly made him a key figure in India’s batting lineup. His match-winning innings against Australia and England helped India in their away series victories.
Highlights:
- Pant’s 101* against England at the Oval in September 2021 was one of the most significant innings in India’s win.
- His ability to counter-attack and play crucial knocks under pressure made him one of the best Test players of 2021.
Top 5 Test Run-Scorers of 2021
| Player Name | Team | Matches Played | Runs Scored | Average | Centuries |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Marnus Labuschagne | Australia | 14 | 1,509 | 72.85 | 5 |
| Joe Root | England | 15 | 1,598 | 64.72 | 6 |
| Kane Williamson | New Zealand | 11 | 1,300 | 81.25 | 4 |
| Ajinkya Rahane | India | 13 | 1,074 | 42.96 | 2 |
| Rishabh Pant | India | 10 | 748 | 41.55 | 2 |
The year 2021 was filled with exceptional performances in Test cricket. The players who topped the list for most runs not only amassed significant runs but did so with consistency and in some of the most challenging conditions. Marnus Labuschagne and Joe Root dominated with their remarkable ability to score big in almost every series, while Kane Williamson’s calm and composed batting was instrumental in New Zealand’s success. Ajinkya Rahane and Rishabh Pant also contributed significantly, with key performances that helped India achieve remarkable victories in tough conditions.
As the year unfolded, it became clear that these players, with their exceptional skills and mental resilience, are among the best in the world. Their performances in 2021 will be remembered as some of the finest in modern Test cricket, and they set the stage for more exciting cricket in the years to come.