Reaching 13,000 Test runs is a remarkable milestone, achieved by only a few batting legends. This list highlights the top 4 fastest batsmen to achieve this feat, showcasing their consistency, technique, and dominance in red-ball cricket. These players have redefined batting standards in Test cricket, leaving an indelible mark on the sport’s history.
4. Rahul Dravid (IND) – 277 innings
Over his illustrious career, the legendary batter accumulated 13,288 runs in 164 Test matches at an impressive average of 52.31. Dravid’s consistency was reflected in his remarkable tally of 36 centuries and 63 half-centuries, cementing his legacy as one of the finest batters in Test cricket history.
Dravid also holds the distinction of being the fourth-fastest batter to reach the 13,000-run milestone in Test cricket. He achieved this remarkable feat in 2011 at Mumbai’s Wankhede Stadium during a match against the West Indies, reaching the landmark in just 277 innings. His journey to this iconic milestone stands as a testament to his dedication, skill, and unwavering focus at the crease.
3. Ricky Ponting (AUS) – 275 innings
Australian cricket legend Ricky Ponting reached the 13,000-run milestone in Test cricket in just 277 innings. The former Aussie skipper achieved this remarkable feat during the Adelaide Test against India in 2012.
Ponting, renowned for his aggressive yet composed batting style, had a stellar Test career. Over 168 matches, the prolific right-hander amassed an impressive 13,378 runs, featuring 41 centuries and 62 half-centuries. His consistent performances and ability to dominate bowlers cemented his place among the all-time greats of the game.
2. Jacques Kallis (SA) – 269 innings
South Africa’s Jacques Kallis is known as arguably the greatest all-rounder in test cricket. The former cricketer took 269 innings to reach the 13000-run milestone in tests. Kallis achieved this illustrious feat during the Cape Town test match against New Zealand in 2013.
Kallis played 166 tests and aggregated 13289 runs at an admirable average of 55.37. The legendary South African notched up 45 hundreds and 58 half-centuries in the longest format.
1. Sachin Tendulkar (IND) – 266 innings
Sachin Tendulkar is the fastest batsman to reach the 13000-run landmark in test cricket, taking 266 innings to achieve this particular milestone. He reached this figure against Bangladesh in Chattogram in 2010.
Hailed as arguably the greatest batsman of all time, Tendulkar amassed 15921 runs in 200 tests at an outstanding average of 53.78. He registered 51 centuries and 68 half-centuries in the longest format.