Which cricketers have the highest batting averages in Test cricket? Sir Donald Bradman (99.94), Adam Voges (61.87), Graeme Pollock (60.97), George Headley (60.83), and Herbert Sutcliffe (60.73) have the Top 5 highest Test batting averages in cricket.
Batting average has been the historic indicator of batting excellence in Test cricket over the years. Steve Smith is the only modern cricketer flirting with the 60 average and is currently at #6 with 59.76. Can he end up at #2 of all-time by the end of his career?
While we are discussing Steve Smith, here is the list of the Top 20 highest batting averages in Test cricket!
There are 7 England cricketers, 4 Australians & West Indians each, 2 from South African & New Zealand, 1 Sri Lankan rank in the Top 20 highest averages of all-time in Test cricket. No Indian or Pakistani batter make the Top 20 as of 2023.
Comparing different eras is usually an issue of debate while discussing batting averages. 7 batters in the pre-1950s era, 6 batters in the 1940s-70s, 6 in the modern era (1995-present), and 1 from pre-1900s made this list.
We did not apply any filters on the amount of Test matches played. Jacques Kallis (166) & Kumar Sangakkara (134) played the highest number of Test matches while maintaining the high average, while George Tyldesley (14) and Daryl Mitchell (20) are at the lower end. Steve Smith, Daryl Mitchell, Kane Williamson, and Marnus Labuschagne are the only active cricketers in this list.
From the Fab 4, only Steve Smith (59.76) and Kane Williamson (54.89) are in the Top 20 of the highest batting averages in Test cricket. Joe Root (50.87) and Virat Kohli (48.72) are much further down the list. Overall, 17 cricketers average above 55.00 in Test cricket as of now.
List of Highest Test Batting Averages: From Don Bradman to Marnus Labuschagne
From Sir Donald Bradman to Marnus Labuschagne, which ones surprised you the most? Here were the Top 20 batters with the highest average in Test cricket.
If Steve Smith continues his spectacular run, could we be witnessing the journey of another legend who could make it to the top 3? Time will tell!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which cricketer has the highest batting average in Test cricket?
Sir Donald Bradman has the highest average in Test cricket (99.94). He is followed by Voges (61.87), Graeme Pollock (60.97), George Headley (60.83), and Herbert Sutcliffe (60.73).
What is Steve Smith’s Test average?
Steve Smith’s Test average is 59.76. He can end up at #2 of all-time.
Who are the greatest wicketkeepers in cricket history? Mark Boucher, Adam Gilchrist, and MS Dhoni are the greatest wicketkeepers across formats by sheer numbers. Rod Marsh, Ian Healy, Godfrey Evans, and Les Ames are some of the greatest keepers this game has ever seen.
Wicketkeeping has always been an integral part of cricket, and the role of a wicketkeeper is not limited to just catching the ball behind the stumps. Keepers play a vital role in the game by providing support to the bowlers, making crucial decisions, and contributing to the team’s overall performance. Over the years, cricket has seen some of the greatest wicketkeepers who have left a significant impact on the game.
Mark Boucher has the most dismissals in cricket across formats (998 dismissals) followed by Adam Gilchrist (905), and MS Dhoni (829).
MS Dhoni has the most stumpings in cross (195) followed by Kumar Sangakkara (139), and Romesh Kaluwitharana (101).
Australia (4) has the highest number of keepers in the Top 15 of the most wicketkeeper dismissal list followed by West Indies, South Africa, Pakistan (2), and India, England, New Zealand, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka. (1)
What Makes Wicketkeepers Valuable in Cricket?
The ranking of the greatest wicketkeepers in cricket is a topic of much debate among cricket fans and experts. However, most agree that the likes of Adam Gilchrist, Mark Boucher, and Kumar Sangakkara were some of the best wicketkeepers the game has ever seen.
Wicketkeepers are crucial to any team. Whether it is saving 20-30 runs behind the stumps every match, impacting DRS decisions, inflicting stumpings, or providing live commentary, they are always in the center of the action.
In this article, we will delve deeper into the topic of the greatest wicketkeepers in cricket and explore the skills and qualities that make a great wicketkeeper. We will also take a closer look at some of the most iconic wicketkeepers in the game’s history and analyze their performance and contributions to the sport.
Note: Although the likes of Rishabh Pant will go do as one of the greatest Test wicketkeeper batters, in this list, we only look at wicketkeeping stats alone.
Evolution of Wicketkeeping
Wicketkeeping has come a long way since the inception of cricket. The role of a wicketkeeper has evolved from being just a mere catcher behind the stumps to a crucial player in the team. Here are some key highlights of the evolution of wicketkeeping in cricket:
Early Days: In the early days of cricket, wicketkeeping was not a specialized role. Any player in the team could take up the role of a wicketkeeper. The gloves used by wicketkeepers were just simple leather gloves with no padding.
Growth of Wicketkeeping: As cricket evolved, the role of wicketkeeping became more specialized. The wicketkeeper became the primary catcher behind the stumps, and the gloves used by them evolved accordingly. The gloves were padded to protect the wicketkeeper’s hands from the impact of the ball.
Invention of Leg Guards: In the late 19th century, leg guards were invented to protect the wicketkeeper’s legs from the impact of the ball. The first leg guards were made of cane and had no padding. Later, the leg guards were made of leather and were padded to provide better protection.
Modern-Day Wicketkeeping: In modern-day cricket, wicketkeeping has become a specialized role. Wicketkeepers are not only expected to be good catchers but also good batsmen. The gloves used by wicketkeepers are highly padded, and the leg guards are also heavily padded to provide maximum protection. Wicketkeepers are also expected to be agile and quick on their feet to be able to move quickly to catch the ball.
The evolution of wicketkeeping in cricket has been a gradual process that has seen the role of the wicketkeeper become more specialized and crucial to the team’s success. The modern-day wicketkeeper is not just a catcher behind the stumps but also a valuable batsman and an agile player.
Greatest Wicketkeepers in Cricket History
Over the years, there have been many great wicketkeepers who have left their mark on the game. Here are some of the greatest wicketkeepers in cricket history.
Note: The Top 15 keepers are based on most dismissals across ODI, Test, and T20 cricket. Godfrey Evans and Les Ames are added in this list not based on the numbers but based on their keeping skills.
Years Played: 1946-1969 (Tests), 1939-1967 (First Class)
Tests: 173 Catches, 46 Stumpings
First Class: 816 Catches, 215 Stumpings (1031 Dismissals)
Godfrey Evans was an exceptional English cricketer, renowned for his agile wicketkeeping skills and aggressive batting, making him one of the greatest wicketkeepers in cricket history. ESPNCricinfo describes him as the “arguably the greatest wicketkeeper the game has ever seen.”
16. Les Ames (107 Dismissals, 74 Catches, 43 Stumpings)
Country: England
Years Played: 1929-1939 (Tests), 1926-1951 (First Class)
Tests: 74 Catches, 43 Stumpings
First Class: 703 Catches, 418 Stumpings (1121 Dismissals)
Les Ames, with his unbeatable wicketkeeping skills and powerful batting, was a true cricketing gem, lighting up the game like few others of his era.With 37248 first class runs and a mammoth 102 centuries, he was also one of cricket’s greatest keeper-batsmen.
Moin Khan brought an electrifying energy to the field with his nimble wicketkeeping and aggressive batting. Was a pivotal figure in Pakistani cricket during the 90s.
13. Mushfiqur Rahim (440 Dismissals, 342 Catches, 98 Stumpings)
Country: Bangladesh
Years Played: 2005-2023
Tests: 110 Catches, 15 Stumpings (125 Dismissals)
ODIs: 214 Catches, 53 Stumpings (267 Dismissals)
T20Is: 42 Catches, 30 Stumpings (72 Dismissals)
One of the Fab 5 of Bangladesh cricket, his energy behind the stumps was infectious. With Liton Das on the rise, the responsibility is slowly transitioning to the next generation.
*Note: At the back half of his career, McCullum would play as a specialist fielder due to injury issues and the introduction of Luke Ronchi & Tom Latham in the New Zealand setup.
Brendon McCullum is a legendary New Zealand cricketer. He was admired for his aggressive batting style and dynamic fielding abilities.
Jeffrey Dujon is a former West Indian cricketer who is widely regarded as one of the best wicketkeepers in cricket history. He played for the West Indies from 1981 to 1991 and was known for his excellent wicketkeeping skills. Dujon took 267 catches and 5 stumpings in his Test career.
7. Rod Marsh (479 Dismissals, 463 Catches, 16 Stumpings)
Country: Australia
Years Played: 1970-1984
Tests: 343 Catches, 12 Stumpings (355 Dismissals)
ODIs: 120 Catches, 4 Stumpings (124 Dismissals)
Rod Marsh is a former Australian cricketer who is considered to be one of the best wicketkeepers in cricket history. He played for Australia from 1970 to 1984 and was known for his excellent wicketkeeping skills. Marsh took 355 catches and 12 stumpings in his Test career.
5. Ian Healy (628 Dismissals, 560 Catches, 68 Stumpings)
Country: Australia
Years Played: 1988-1999
Tests: 366 Catches, 29 Stumpings (395 Dismissals)
ODIs: 194 Catches, 39 Stumpings (233 Dismissals)
Ian Healy is a former Australian cricketer who is widely regarded as one of the best wicketkeepers in cricket history. He played for Australia from 1988 to 1999 and was known for his excellent wicketkeeping skills. Healy took 366 catches and 29 stumpings in his Test career.
Kumar Sangakkara is a former Sri Lankan cricketer who is widely regarded as one of the best wicketkeepers in cricket history. His glasses and consistent presence was a key part in Sri Lanka’s domination.
*Note: Sangakkara switched regularly from keeper to fielder. Hence, his detailed Test, ODIs, and T20Is record show more catches then his overall Test catch record of 539
M.S. Dhoni is one of the most successful captains in Indian cricket history. He is also considered to be one of the best wicketkeepers in the world. And Dhoni’s stumpings are the best in the world, aren’t they?
2. Adam Gilchrist (905 Dismissals, 813 Catches, 92 Stumpings)
Country: Australia
Years Played: 1996-2008
Tests: 379 Catches, 37 Stumpings (416 Dismissals)
ODIs: 417 Catches, 55 Stumpings (472 Dismissals)
T20Is: 17 Catches, 0 Stumpings (17 Dismissals)
Adam Gilchrist is widely regarded as one of the best wicketkeepers in cricket history. He played for Australia from 1996 to 2008 and was known for his aggressive batting style. Gilchrist was a reliable wicketkeeper and took 905 catches and 37 stumpings in his career. Changed the way the wicketkeeper’s role was viewed.
1. Mark Boucher (998 Dismissals, 952 Catches, 46 Stumpings)
Country: South Africa
Years Played: 1997-2012
Tests: 532 Catches, 23 Stumpings (555 Dismissals)
ODIs: 403 Catches, 22 Stumps (425 Dismissals)
T20Is: 18 Catches, 1 Stumping (19 Dismissals)
Mark Boucher is a former South African cricketer who is considered to be one of the best wicketkeepers in cricket history. Had an unfortunate end to his career as a bail hit his eye.
These wicketkeepers have left their mark on the game and have set the standard for future generations. Their skills, dedication, and hard work have made them some of the greatest wicketkeepers in cricket history.
Final Thoughts
Their agility behind the stumps, exceptional catching prowess, and often underappreciated batting abilities, make them stand out in the cricketing pantheon.
I have developed a newfound respect for these players who donned the gloves and stood guard behind the wickets, often unsung heroes of many a match.
As a fan, I feel privileged to have witnessed some of these greats in action, while others, I have come to appreciate through stories, records, and old footage. The legacy they have left behind is not only inspiring for upcoming cricketers but also serves as a reminder for us fans about the richness and diversity of this beautiful game.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the greatest wicketkeeper in cricket history?
Mark Boucher, Adam Gilchrist, MS Dhoni, Ian Healy, Rod Marsh, Les Ames, and Godfrey Evans are among cricket’s greatest wicketkeepers.
Who has the most stumpings in cricket?
MS Dhoni has the most stumpings in cross (195) followed by Kumar Sangakkara (139), and Romesh Kaluwitharana (101).
Who has the most dismissals in cricket?
Mark Boucher has the most dismissals in cricket across formats (998 dismissals) followed by Adam Gilchrist (905), and MS Dhoni (829).
The ODI World Cup 2023 schedule have finally been announced!
The ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 is just around the corner and cricket fans all over the world are eagerly awaiting this grand event.
Scheduled to take place in India between 5 October and 19 November 2023, this will be the 13th edition of the tournament. With teams from all over the world competing for the coveted title, it promises to be an exciting tournament full of thrilling matches and nail-biting finishes. So, get ready for some serious cricket action as we bring you a complete guide to the 2023 ODI Cricket World Cup Schedule!
England and New Zealand play the first match of the 2023 ODI World Cup, marking the repeat of the iconic 2019 World Cup Final.
Some of the marquee matches are as follows: October 8 (India vs Australia), October 13 (Australia vs South Africa), October 15 (India vs Pakistan), October 22 (India vs New Zealand), October 23 (Afghanistan vs Pakistan), October 29 (India vs England), October 31 (Pakistan vs Bangladesh), and November 4 (Australia vs England)
India, Pakistan, and South Africa will play all 9 of their matches as Day-Night (D/N) matches. Bangladesh will play the least with 6 D/N matches.
India & England will play in 9 separate venues, while Pakistan will only play in five different venues.
If India make the semi-finals, they will play in Mumbai. However, if it is an India vs Pakistan match, then it will be held in Kolkata.
The World Cup will run from October 5, 2023-November 19, 2023.
Fixtures & Schedule: ICC 2023 ODI Cricket World Cup
*Note: Qualifier 1 & Qualifier 2 denotes the two teams that will qualify from the 2023 ODI World Cup Qualifier held in Zimbabwe. The six candidates at the moment are: Zimbabwe, Sri Lanka, Scotland, Netherlands, West Indies, and Oman.
India Fixtures Overview
Number of Day Night Matches: 9/9
Most Frequent Venue: None (each stadium used one for hosts India)
Shortest Gap Between Matches: 2 Days (between matches 1 & 2)
Longest Gap Between Matches: 6 Days (between matches 5 & 6)
ODI World Cup 2023 Schedule – India Team (Hosts)
vs Australia: October 8, 2023, Chennai (D/N)
vs Afghanistan: October 11, 2023, Delhi (D/N)
vs Pakistan: October 15, 2023, Ahmedabad (D/N)
vs Bangladesh: October 19, 2023, Pune (D/N)
vs New Zealand: October 22, 2023, Dharamsala (D/N)
vs England: October 29, 2023, Lucknow (D/N)
vs Qualifier 2: November 2, 2023, Mumbai (D/N)
vs South Africa: November 5, 2023, Kolkata (D/N)
vs Qualifier 1: November 11, 2023, Bengaluru (D/N)
Most Frequent Venue: Hyderabad, Chennai (twice each, back-to-back), Kolkata, Bengaluru (twice)
Shortest Gap Between Matches: 2 Days (between matches 4 & 5)
Longest Gap Between Matches: 7 Days (between matches 8 & 9)
ODI World Cup 2023 – Pakistan Team Schedule
vs Qualifier 1: October 6, 2023, Hyderabad (D/N)
vs Qualifier 2: October 12, 2023, Hyderabad (D/N)
vs India: October 15, 2023, Ahmedabad (D/N)
vs Australia: October 20, 2023, Bengaluru (D/N)
vs Afghanistan: October 23, 2023, Chennai (D/N)
vs South Africa: October 27, 2023, Chennai (D/N)
vs Bangladesh: October 31, 2023, Kolkata (D/N)
vs New Zealand: November 4, 2023, Bengaluru
vs England: November 12, 2023, Kolkata (D/N)
South Africa Fixtures Overview
Number of Day Night Matches: 9/9
Most Frequent Venue: Mumbai (twice, back-to-back)
Shortest Gap Between Matches: 2 Days (between matches 4 & 5, between matches 5 & 6)
Longest Gap Between Matches: 5 Days (between matches 1 & 2)
ODI World Cup 2023 – South Africa Team Schedule
vs Qualifier 2: October 7, 2023, Delhi (D/N)
vs Australia: October 13, 2023, Lucknow (D/N)
vs Qualifier 1: October 17, 2023, Dharamsala (D/N)
vs England: October 21, 2023, Mumbai (D/N)
vs Bangladesh: October 24, 2023, Mumbai (D/N)
vs Pakistan: October 27, 2023, Chennai (D/N)
vs New Zealand: November 1, 2023, Pune (D/N)
vs India: November 5, 2023, Kolkata (D/N)
vs Afghanistan: November 10, 2023, Ahmedabad (D/N)
Qualifier 1 Fixtures Overview
Number of Day Night Matches: 8/9
Most Frequent Venue: Hyderabad (twice, back-to-back), Lucknow
Shortest Gap Between Matches: 2 Days (between matches 1 & 2, between matches 5 & 6, between matches 8 & 9)
Longest Gap Between Matches: 7 Days (between matches 2 & 3)
ODI World Cup 2023 – Qualifier 1 Schedule
vs Pakistan: October 6, 2023, Hyderabad (D/N)
vs New Zealand: October 9, 2023, Hyderabad (D/N)
vs South Africa: October 17, 2023, Dharamsala (D/N)
vs Qualifier 2: October 21, 2023, Lucknow
vs Australia: October 25, 2023, Delhi (D/N)
vs Bangladesh: October 28, 2023, Kolkata (D/N)
vs Afghanistan: November 3, 2023, Lucknow (D/N)
vs England: November 8, 2023, Pune (D/N)
vs India: November 11, 2023, Lucknow (D/N)
Qualifier 2 Fixtures Overview
Number of Day Night Matches: 8/9
Most Frequent Venue: Lucknow (twice, back-to-back), Delhi (twice)
Shortest Gap Between Matches: 2 Days (between matches 6 & 7, between matches 8 & 9)
Longest Gap Between Matches: 4 Days (between matches 4 & 5)
ODI World Cup 2023 – Qualifier 2 Schedule
vs South Africa: October 7, 2023, Delhi (D/N)
vs Pakistan: October 12, 2023, Hyderabad (D/N)
vs Australia: October 16, 2023, Lucknow (D/N)
vs Qualifier 1: October 21, 2023, Lucknow
vs England: October 26, 2023, Bengaluru (D/N)
vs Afghanistan: October 30, 2023, Pune (D/N)
vs India: November 2, 2023, Mumbai (D/N)
vs Bangladesh: November 6, 2023, Delhi (D/N)
vs New Zealand: November 9, 2023, Bengaluru (D/N)
2023 ODI World Cup Knockout Matches
November 15, 2023, Kolkata (D/N)
November 16, 2023, Mumbai (D/N)
November 19, 2023, Ahmedabad
Final Thoughts
The ODI World Cup 2023 schedule promises to be a rollercoaster ride of emotions for cricket fans across the globe.
With the best teams battling it out on the field, we can hope that several matches are a nail-biting experience. The ODI Cricket World is more than just a sport. It is a unifying force that brings people together from all corners of the world.
Mark your calendars and get ready to witness history in the making as the world’s best cricketing nations compete for the ultimate prize- the ODI World Cup trophy!
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the India vs Pakistan match be in the 2023 ODI World Cup?
The much awaited India vs Pakistan match will take place on October 15, 2023 in Ahmedabad.
How many matches will be played in the 2023 ODI World Cup?
48 matches will be played in the 2023 ODI World Cup (45 group stage matches, 2 semi-finals, and one final).
When will the ICC 2023 ODI World Cup be played?
The 2023 ODI Cricket World Cup will be held between October 5, 2023 and November 19, 2023.
After West Indies lost to Zimbabwe and Netherlands in the 2023 ODI World Cup Qualifier, fans reacted around the world. Here are my honest thoughts on the state of West Indian cricket.
Events That Have Transpired During the 2023 ODI World Cup Qualifiers
West Indies are on the brink of exiting from the 2023 ODI World Cup Qualifiers.
First of all, let us not take anything away from Zimbabwe and Netherlands (as well as Scotland & Sri Lanka from the other group), who have been playing excellent cricket. Today, Logan Van Beek produced a Super Over performance of the ages, hitting 30 runs and taking two wickets.
However, West Indies has been below par. From dropped catches and misfields to over rate penalties, no ball calls, mindless bowling changes, and questionable strategies, things have not quite gone right for West Indies.
Over the last five years, though, they have descended into further depths. The West Indies cricket team
Failed to qualify for the 2017 Champions Trophy
Had to go through the 2018 ODI World Cup qualification
Performed shambolically at the 2019 ODI World Cup (won only 2/9)
Crashed out of the 2021 T20 World Cup Super 12 stage (won only 1/5)
Failed to get out of the first round itself in the 2022 T20 World Cup (won only 1/3)
Their fortunes in Test cricket wasn’t great either. In the latest edition of the World Test Championship, they ended up 8th/9th, winning 4 Tests & drawing 2 out of 13. They had similar fortunes in the inaugural edition of the WTC as well (won 3, drew 2, ended 8th/9th).
Their fortunes continued to plummet in the ODI Super League, where they only won 9 out of the 24 ODI matches. The men’s side are currently ranked 7th in T20I cricket, 8th in Test cricket, and 10th in ODI cricket. The women are ranked 6th each in T20I and ODI. If you have only won 7 Tests and 4 World Cup matches over the past 5 years, then there is plenty of room to introspect.
This isn’t the first time we are talking about the ‘Downfall of West Indies cricket,’ is it? Since the late nineties and early 2000s, they have faced a steady decline.
West Indies cricket used to produce the likes of Lord Baron Constantine, Sir Conrad Hunte, Sir Clyde Walcott, Sir Everton Weekes, Wes Hall, Andy Roberts, Michael Holding, Joel Garner, Lance Gibbs, Sir Gordon Greenidge, Desmond Haynes, Sir Clive Lloyd, Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Brian Lara, Curtly Ambrose, Courtney Walsh, George Headley, Malcolm Marshall, Brian Lara, Sir Vivian Richards, Sir Frank Worrell, Sir Garfield Sobers, Sunil Narine, Dwayne Bravo, Chris Gayle, Andre Russell, Marlon Samuels, Alvin Kallicharan, Rohan Kanhai, Ramnaresh Sarwan, Carl Hooper, Lawrence Rowe, Roy Fredericks, Vanburn Holder, Sir Charlie Griffith, Jackie Hendricks, Colin Croft, and Ian Bishop.
They still produce individual talent like Hetmyer, Pooran, and Hope, but it just does not feel the same anymore.
Every cricket fan is a West Indies cricket fan. The flair that the Caribbean brings to cricket is second to none. Folklore of the West Indian greats, the menacing fast bowling units, the dominating power of cricket.
I may just be overreacting. After all, these twin defeats came on the back of 8 consecutive victories (5 ODI, 2 Warm-Ups, 1 T20Is) and the charismatic Darren Sammy has just taken charge.
West Indies cricket fans can still take some hope from Afghanistan’s 2018 World Cup qualifier experience. Afghanistan was in a similar situation then but made an improbable comeback (also thanks to the rain Gods) and qualified for the 2019 ODI World Cup.
West Indies can still qualify with certain permutations going their way, but what have we learned? West Indies are no longer in the upper echelons of cricket or even mid-tier.
Sure, a Carlos Brathwaite magic moment, a Pooran innings, a Hope classic, or a Joseph hat-trick can win West Indies a few games here and there, but where is West Indies’ fortunes going in the long run?
When all seems to fail, West Indies produce tournament performances of champions – 2004 Champions Trophy, 2012 T20 World Cup, and 2016 T20 World Cup. 2016 U-19 World Cup. 2016 Women’s World Cup, but this time just feels different.
We can criticize franchise cricket and the IPL for all we like, but the Gayles, Bravos, and Pollards were product of this system and won the West Indies a couple of T20 World Cups. The Caribbean continues to produce exciting talent, no doubt. But they no longer produce great teams.
The transition is happening and something needs to change. Change very quickly that is.
Legacy of West Indies cricket is at stake. West Indies cricket as a whole is at stake.
Who knows, if the downfall continues, we may not even see the West Indies. We may, instead, see Antigua & Barbuda, Barbados, Jamaica, Leeward Islands, Guyana, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Trinidad and Tobago, and Windward Islands competing as separate nations.
The golden era of the last century is long gone. The great era of the 70s is gone. Even the time of Lara-Chanderpaul-Ambrose-Walsh is gone.
All that is left is memories.
I just hope that West Indies cricket does not end up becoming just a memory.
What is Virat Kohli’s net worth? Virat Kohli’s total net worth in 2023 is estimated to be between $62-131 Million (Rs. 508-1075 Crore INR).
King Kohli’s net worth frequently sparks curiosity among cricket fans throughout the world.
As one of modern cricket’s greatest icons and being the world’s best batter for the better part of the last decade, it is no surprise that Virat Kohli has become one of the wealthiest athletes on the planet.
Virat Kohli Net Worth Case Study
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Virat Kohli’s net worth as a case study to understand the different ways cricketers can earn money.
This is the fifth piece in our series on analyzing Cricket’s Finances:
Virat Kohli Total Net Worth (Both Rupees and Dollars)
The inspiration for this article came from a report from Stock Gro, a social trading platform that was widely circulated on social media. They reported that Virat Kohli’s estimated net worth is about Rs. 1,050 crore (around $122 Million).
Today we break this down into little pieces (and try to fact check their estimates along the way).
Our Method and Sources on Virat Kohli’s Net Worth ($62-131 Million) Estimate
According to Forbes’s “The World’s 10 Highest-Paid Athletes 2023” list, soccer star, Cristiano Ronaldo, is at #1 with a whopping $136 Million ($46 Million on-field earnings & $90 Million off-field earnings), while American football legend, Tom Brady, is at #50 with $45.2 Million earnings ($1.2 million on-field & $44 million off-field).
In the past, Kohli has been the only cricketer to have made the Forbes list (he has since dropped off and did not make the Top 50 of the Forbes 2023 list). He made the 2020 list as the #66th richest athlete in the world with $26 Million earnings ($2 Million – on field, $24 Million – endorsements). In addition, Virat Kohli made Sportico’s “100 Highest-Paid Athletes in the World 2022” at #61 with $33.9 Million ($2.9 Million salary/winnings & $31 Million endorsements)
Conclusion: Based on these two trusted sources, Virat Kohli’s net worth based on on-field salary and off-field sponsorships cannot be greater than $45 million.
Virat Kohli’s Net Worth Breakdown
So, how can a cricketer earn money? A cricketer can earn money through annual contracts, match fees, IPL & franchise league salaries, post-match award earnings, properties, cars, and brand endorsements (sponsorships, paid tweets & Instagram posts, advertising, etc.)
Let’s get started and analyze each component of Kohli’s net worth.
*Note: We will use the conversion is as of 6/24/2023, where $1 US dollar is equal to Rs. 81.98 INR.
Between the 2022 T20 World Cup and 2023 ODI World Cup, a three-format player like Virat Kohli had the potential to play 9 Tests, 27 ODIs, and 20 T20Is.
Test: Rs. 1.35 Crores INR ($164,674.35)
ODI: Rs. 1.62 Crores INR ($197.609.22)
T20I: Rs. 60 Lakhs INR ($73,188.6)
Putting it all together, Virat Kohli (or any Indian three-format international player) had the potential to earn a maximum of Rs. 3.57 Crores INR ($435,472.17) from match fees alone.
Here are the list of India’s matches over the past year:
Part 3: Virat Kohli Brand Endorsements ($41-110 Million)
Endorsements are where accurate information is a little difficult to find. Some of these estimates may be close, while others may be totally off the charts.
Kohli endorses at least 18 brands. If he does one-three days of shoot for each brand, then he earns a minimum of Rs. 135-360 Crores ($16.458-43.9 Million) per year. This is consistent with our guess that Kohli’s off-field earnings are below $45 million.
Brands Endorsed by Kohli: Vivo, Myntra, Great Learning, Noise, Wrogn, Blue Star, Fire Boltt, Too Yumm!, Volini, Luxor, HSBC, Uber, Toothsi, Star Sports, American Tourister, MRF, Tissot, Cinthol
In particular, we know that Virat Kohli has also signed major long-term deals as follows:
Virat Kohli MRF 8-Year Deal: Rs. 100 Crores INR ($12.196 Million) or Rs. 12.5 Crores INR ($1.5 Million) per year.
Virat Kohli Puma 8-Year Deal: Rs. 110 Crores INR ($13.409 Million) or Rs. 13.75 Crores INR ($1.68 Million) per year.
8. Paid Social Media Posts ($25-65 Million)
Another way for influencers to endorse brands is via paid tweets or Instagram posts.
Since June 2022, Virat Kohli has tweeted about 250 times. This can be divided into about 75 personal tweets and about 175 branded tweets, which amounts to about Rs. 437.5 Crore ($53,305,684.31) from Twitter.
Similarly, Kohli has posted about 240 Instagram posts since June 2022, 107 of which are paid partnerships. This results in a whopping Rs. 952.3 Crore ($116,162,478.65).
If this was true, Virat Kohli could earn over $169,468,162.96 in a year through social media posts alone! This seems slightly overboard.
According to Forbes, the highest earner on Instagram in 2019 was Cristiano Ronaldo with $47.8 Million (when he had 187 Million followers) and Lionel Messi earned about $23.3 Million from paid-Instagram posts. We can take an educated guess that Kohli also earns around $25-65 Million dollars from paid posts.
8. Businesses & Startups
Finally, a cricketer can earn money via investments and businesses.
Although we cannot estimate the exact amount of net worth Kohli derives from business initiatives, it could be another $10-20 million (Rs. 80-160 Crores INR). Since this is just speculation, we will not add it to the total net worth.
Here are the businesses Kohli is affiliated with.
Brands Owned: one8 commune (restaurant & athleisure brand), NUEVA (restaurant), WROGN (clothing), stepathlon (lifestyle), FC GOA, UAE Royals, Bengaluru Yodhas
Brands Funded: RAGE, Blue Tribe, Sport Convo, Universal Sportsbiz, Chisel, MPL, Digit, Hyperice
Final Thoughts – How Do Cricketers Earn Money?
These are not, however, all the ways cricketers can earn money.
For example, Ravichandran Ashwin, has a YouTube channel. In addition, current players like Dinesh Karthik & Stuart Broad participate in commentary stints during their off seasons, which adds to the income. This can add another $25,000-$100,000 to their total salary depending on the number of matches they commentate in.
Frequently Asked Questions – Virat Kohli Net Worth and Salary
What is Virat Kohli’s net worth?
Virat Kohli’s total net worth in 2023 is estimated to be between $62-131 Million (Rs. 508-1075 Crore INR).
What is Virat Kohli’s salary?
Virat Kohli has A+ contract worth Rs. 7 crores INR ($854,000) per year.
How much does Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) pay Virat Kohli?
RCB retained Virat Kohli in 2022 for Rs. 15 Crores INR ($1.83 Million)
Today, we will look at the cricketers who have scored the most Test runs. Can you guess how many cricketers have made over 10000 Test runs?
With a combination of skill and determination, players such as Sachin Tendulkar, Kumar Sangakkara, Ricky Ponting and Brian Lara have rewritten the record books with their extraordinary batting feats. Read on to find out more about these legendary batters and their remarkable run hauls in Test cricket!
Sachin Tendulkar (15921), Ricky Ponting (13378), Jacques Kallis (13289), Rahul Dravid (13288), and Alastair Cook (12472) are the top 5 runs scorers in cricket history.
Among the Fab 4 and active cricketers, Joe Root has scored the most Test runs (11178). Steve Smith (9085), Virat Kohli (8479), David Warner (8247), and Kane Williamson (8124) follow Root.
Australia has produced 3 players with 10000+ scores (8 total with 8000+ scores) as well as India – 3 players with 10000+ scores (6 total with 8000+ runs). Next, we have England – 2 (7 total), West Indies – 2 (4 total) Sri Lanka – 2 (2 total), South Africa – 1 (4 total), Pakistan – 1 (3 total). New Zealand has produced just one player with 8000+ Test runs.
35 cricketers have scored 8000+ Test runs, 16 cricketers have scored 9000+ Test runs. Among the 16, only 14 cricketers have scored 10000+ Test runs, 11 have scored 11000+, six have scored 12000+, four have 13000+, and only Sachin Tendulkar has 15000 runs.
Among 10000 run scorers in Test cricket, Kumar Sangakkara has the highest average at 57.40, while Alastair Cook has the lowest average at 45.35. Among the top 35 run scorers, Steve Smith currently has the highest Test average at 59.39 and Alec Stewart had the lowest average at 39.54.
Most Test Runs: 10000+ Runs Scorer in Test Cricket
1. Sachin Tendulkar (15921 Runs), India
Years Played: 1989-2013
Tests/Innings: 200/329
Average: 53.78
Sachin Tendulkar, widely regarded as one of the greatest cricketers of all time, holds the record for the most runs in Test cricket with a staggering 15,921 runs.
Ricky Ponting holds the record for the second highest run scorer in Test cricket with 13378 runs. His strong batting technique and his excellent captaincy made him one of the most successful captains in the history of cricket. He was known for playing attacking strokes and leading from the front.
Jacques Kallis comes in next as the third-highest run scorer in Test cricket with 13289 runs. His is regarded as one of the greatest all-rounders and versatile players of all time. He had a great eye for picking gaps and was able to score big runs quickly.
Rahul Dravid, often referred to as ‘The Wall’, is at fourth place with 13288 runs in Test cricket. His ability to grind out long innings and score big runs made him one of the most dependable batsmen for India over a period of time.
Alastair Cook is the fifth-highest run scorer in Test cricket with 12472 runs. His ability to bat for long periods of time and put a price on his wicket made him one of the most reliable batsmen for England. He was also known for his excellent technique and strong defense against spin bowling.
Kumar Sangakkara is the sixth-highest run-scorer in Test cricket with 12400 runs. His unmatched batting technique, quick footwork, and ability to score big runs quickly made him one of the most feared batsmen in world cricket. He was known for his calmness under pressure and his ability to play match-winning knocks.
Brian Lara is the seventh-highest run scorer in Test cricket with 11953 runs. His attacking strokeplay, elegant batting style, and penchant for scoring big centuries made him one of the most entertaining batsmen to watch. He was known for his ability to change the course of a game with crucial knocks under pressure.
8. Shivnarine Chanderpaul (11867 Runs), West Indies
Years Played: 1994-2015
Tests/Innings: 164/280
Average: 51.37
Shivnarine Chanderpaul is the eighth-highest run scorer in Test cricket with 11867 runs. His ability to bat for long periods of time, his unconventional batting style and technique, and his patience made him one of the most dependable batsmen for West Indies. He was known for his defensive game and his ability to bat out tough periods.
Mahela Jayawardene is the ninth-highest run scorer in Test cricket with 11814 runs. His elegant batting style, strong footwork, and ability to score big runs quickly made him one of the most dangerous batsmen in world cricket. He was known for his ability to take control of a game with his match-winning knocks.
Joe Root is currently eleventh-highest run scorer in Test cricket with 11168 runs. His strong batting technique, attacking strokes, and ability to score big runs has made him one of the most dangerous batsmen in world cricket in the modern era.
Allan Border is the tenth-highest run scorer in Test cricket with 11174 runs. He was known for his ability to bat for long periods of time, his strong defensive technique, and his aggressive stroke play. He was the cornerstone of the Australian team during their successful period in world cricket.
Steve Waugh is the twelfth-highest run scorer in Test cricket with 10927 runs. He was known for his ability to bat for long periods of time, his strong defensive technique, and his aggressive style. He captained Australia during their golden period of world cricket and had a knack for playing match-winning knocks.
Sunil Gavaskar is the thirteenth-highest run scorer in Test cricket with 10122 runs. The original ‘Little Master,’ he was known for his defensive technique, strong footwork, and ability to grind out long innings. His ability to score big centuries under pressure made him one of the most reliable batsmen for India over a period of time.
Younis Khan is the fourteenth-highest run scorer in Test cricket with 10099 runs. His match-winning knocks under pressure made him one of the most dependable batsmen for Pakistan over a period of time.
List of the Top 35 Highest Runs Scorer in Test Cricket: From Sachin Tendulkar to Mark Waugh
Here are the cricketers with 8000 or more runs in Test cricket. 35 cricketers have broken the 8000-run mark.
Player
National Team
Runs
Matches/ Innings
Average
Years Played
1. Sachin Tendulkar
India
15921
200/329
53.78
1989-2013
2. Ricky Ponting
Australia
13378
168/287
51.85
1995-2012
3. Jacques Kallis
South Africa
13289
166/280
55.37
1995-2013
4. Rahul Dravid
India
13288
164/286
52.31
1996-2012
5. Alastair Cook
England
12472
161/291
45.35
2006-2018
6. Kumar Sangakkara
Sri Lanka
12400
134/233
57.40
2000-2015
7. Brian Lara
West Indies
11953
131/232
52.88
1990-2006
8. Shivnarine Chanderpaul
West Indies
11867
164/280
51.37
1994-2015
9. Mahela Jayawardene
Sri Lanka
11814
149/252
49.84
1997-2014
10. Allan Border
Australia
11174
156/265
50.56
1978-1994
11. Joe Root*
England
11168
131/240
50.76
2012-
12. Steve Waugh
Australia
10927
168/260
51.06
1985-2004
13. Sunil Gavaskar
India
10122
125/214
51.12
1971-1987
14. Younis Khan
Pakistan
10099
118/213
52.05
2000-2017
15. Hashim Amla
South Africa
9282
124/215
46.64
2004-2019
16. Graeme Smith
South Africa
9265
117/205
48.25
2002-2014
17. Steve Smith*
Australia
9085
99/175
59.76
2010-
18. Graham Gooch
England
8900
118/215
42.58
1975-1995
19. Javed Miandad
Pakistan
8832
124/189
52.57
1976-1993
20. Inzamam-ul-Haq
Pakistan
8830
120/200
49.60
1992-2007
21. VVS Laxman
India
8781
134/225
45.97
1996-2012
22. AB De Villiers
South Africa
8765
114/191
50.66
2004-2018
23. Michael Clarke
Australia
8643
115/198
49.10
2004-2015
24. Matthew Hayden
Australia
8625
103/184
50.73
1994-2009
25. Virender Sehwag
India
8586
104/180
49.34
2001-2013
26. Vivian Richards
West Indies
8540
121/182
50.23
1974-1991
27. Virat Kohli*
India
8479
109/185
48.72
2011-
28. Alec Stewart
England
8463
133/235
39.54
1990-2003
29. David Warner*
Australia
8247
105/191
45.06
2011-
30. David Gower
England
8231
117/204
44.25
1978-1992
31. Kevin Pietersen
England
8181
104/181
47.28
2005-2014
32. Kane Williamson*
New Zealand
8124
94/164
54.89
2010-
33. Geoffrey Boycott
England
8114
108/193
47.82
1964-1982
34. Garfield Sobers
West Indies
8032
93/160
57.78
1854-1974
35. Mark Waugh
Australia
8029
128/209
41.81
1991-2002
Final Thoughts
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Most Test Runs
How many batsmen have 10,000 Test scores?
14 cricketers have scored 10,000+ runs in Test cricket history. Sachin Tendulkar, Ricky Ponting, Rahul Dravid, Jacques Kallis, Alastair Cook, Kumar Sangakkara, Mahela Jayawardene, Shivnarine Chanderpaul, Brian Lara, Joe Root, Allan Border, Steve Waugh, Sunil Gavaskar, and Younis Khan have all scored over 10000 Test runs.
Which player has the most runs in Test cricket?
Sachin Tendulkar (15921) has scored the most runs in Test cricket.
Who was the first batsman to score 10,000 Test runs?
Sunil Gavaskar was the first batter to score 10,000 runs in Test cricket.
Which 10 Teams Will Play in the 2023 ICC ODI Cricket World Cup Qualifier? Ireland, Nepal, Netherlands, Oman, Scotland, Sri Lanka, UAE, USA, West Indies, and Zimbabwe will compete in the 2023 ICC ODI Cricket World Cup Qualifier.
Get ready for an exhilarating journey as we dive into our complete guide to the 2023 ICC ODI Cricket World Cup Qualifier!
This article will provide you with an in-depth look at the ten teams competing for a coveted spot in the upcoming World Cup. We’ll explore their squads, examine the schedule and fixtures, and offer a comprehensive preview of what’s in store for cricket fans worldwide.
Let’s begin!
2023 ICC ODI World Cup Qualifier Teams: Road to the 2023 ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup
32 teams began their journey for 10 spots for the 2023 ODI World Cup.
Teams played in the ODI Super League, World Cup League 2, Challenge League, and Qualifier Play-off (from the Challenge League) to get to the qualifiers. Here’s a quick summary of the road to the 2023 World Cup Qualifier.
ODI Super League: Ranked 1-13 (Top 7 teams plus hosts India qualified directly for the World Cup, Bottom 5 in the World Cup Qualifier)
New Zealand, England, Bangladesh, India (hosts), Pakistan, Australia, Afghanistan, South Africa qualify directly for the 2023 ICC ODI World Cup.
West Indies, Sri Lanka, Ireland, Zimbabwe, Netherlands will have to compete in the ICC World Cup Qualifier.
League 2: Ranked 14-20 (Top 3 qualify for this ICC World Cup qualifier, Bottom 4 play the Qualifier Play-Off)
Scotland, Oman, Nepal qualify directly for the World Cup qualifier.
Namibia, United States, United Arab Emirates, Papua New Guinea had to go through the Qualifier Play-off.
Challenge League: Ranked 21-32 (Top 2 qualify for the Qualifier Play-Off)
Canada, Jersey qualify for the Qualifier play-off.
Other Teams: Singapore, Denmark, Malaysia, Vanuatu, Qatar, Hong Kong, Kenya, Uganda, Jersey, Bermuda, Italy (eliminated)
Qualifier Play-Off
United States & United Arab Emirates qualify for the World Cup qualifiers.
Namibia, Canada, Jersey, Papua New Guinea eliminated.
What is the Format for the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifier?
Ten teams are divided in two groups of five.
The group stage will be in round-robin format and top three of each group will qualify for the Super Six stage.
Each team will play three matches in the Super Six stage (will play teams who were in the other Group Stage) and the Top 2 teams in the Super Six stage will qualify for the World Cup.
There will be a final on 9 July, 2023 but will have no impact on qualification.
How Many Matches Will be Played in the 2023 ODI World Cup Qualifier?
34 matches will be played in the 2023 ICC ODI World Cup qualifiers.
This includes 9 Super 20 group matches, nine Super-Six matches, four place play-off games, and one final.
Where will the 2023 ICC ODI Cricket World Cup Qualifier be played?
The 2023 ICC ODI World Cup Qualifier will be held in Zimbabwe. 4 venues will host the qualifier, two each in Harare and Bulawayo.
The four stadiums where the 2023 ICC ODI Cricket World Cup Qualifier is to be played are Harare Sports Club (Harare), Takashinga Sports Club (Harare), Queens Sports Club (Bulawayo), and Bulawayo Athletic Club (Bulawayo).
Matches in Group A will be played in Harare, while matches in Group B will be played in Bulawayo.
The Super Sixes will be played in Harare Sports Club and Queens Sports Club. The 7th Place Play-off & 9th Place Play-off will be held at Takshinga Sports Club.
How They Got Here: #1 in Qualifier Play-Off (League 2 Ranking: #5)
Captain: Monank Patel (WK)
Squad: Aaron Jones, Ali Khan, Jessy Singh, Nosthush Kenjige, Sushant Modani, Saiteja Mukkamalla, Saurabh Netravalkar, Abhishek Paradkar, Nisarg Patel, Kyle Phillip, Shayan Jahangir, Gajanand Singh, Steven Taylor, Usman Rafiq
Prediction: Should make the Super Six given their recent rise. Might give a run for their money in the Super Six, but they will probably not make the Top 2.
Squad: Mark Adair, Curtis Campher, Gareth Delany, George Dockrell, Graham Hume, Josh Little, Andy McBrine, Barry McCarthy, Peter Moor (WK), Paul Stirling, Harry Tector, Loran Tucker (WK), Ben White, Craig Young
Prediction: Also one of the favorites, but may end up #3-4 in Super Six due to the tough competition
How They Got Here: #1 in League 2 (Direct Qualification)
Captain: Richie Berrington
Squad: Matthew Cross (WK), Alasdair Evans, Chris Greaves, Hamza Tahir, Jack Jarvis, Michael Leask, Tomas Mackintosh, Christopher McBride, Brandon McMullen, George Munsey, Adrian Neill, Safyaan Sharif, Chris Sole, Mark Watt
Prediction: Just like Ireland, will be in the running for the Top 2 spot but may not make it
ICC ODI Cricket World Cup Qualifier Fixtures & Schedule – Group Stage (June 18, 2023 – June 27, 2023)
Date
Team 1
Team 2
Group
Venue
June 18, 2023
Zimbabwe
Nepal
A
Harare Sports Club (Harare)
June 18, 2023
West Indies
USA
A
Takashinga Sports Club (Harare)
June 19, 2023
Sri Lanka
UAE
B
Queens Sports Club (Bulawayo)
June 19, 2023
Ireland
Oman
B
Bulawayo Athletic Club (Bulawayo)
June 20, 2023
Zimbabwe
Netherlands
A
Harare Sports Club (Harare)
June 20, 2023
Nepal
USA
A
Takashinga Sports Club (Harare)
June 21, 2023
Ireland
Scotland
B
Queens Sports Club (Bulawayo)
June 21, 2023
Oman
UAE
B
Bulawayo Athletic Club (Bulawayo)
June 22, 2023
Nepal
West Indies
A
Harare Sports Club (Harare)
June 22, 2023
Netherlands
USA
A
Takashinga Sports Club (Harare)
June 23, 2023
Oman
Sri Lanka
B
Queens Sports Club (Bulawayo)
June 23, 2023
Scotland
UAE
B
Bulawayo Athletic Club (Bulawayo)
June 24, 2023
Zimbabwe
West Indies
A
Harare Sports Club (Harare)
June 24, 2023
Nepal
Netherlands
A
Takashinga Sports Club (Harare)
June 25, 2023
Ireland
Sri Lanka
B
Queens Sports Club (Bulawayo)
June 25, 2023
Oman
Scotland
B
Bulawayo Athletic Club (Bulawayo)
June 26, 2023
Zimbabwe
USA
A
Harare Sports Club (Harare)
June 26, 2023
Netherlands
West Indies
A
Takashinga Sports Club (Harare)
June 27, 2023
Scotland
Sri Lanka
B
Queens Sports Club (Bulawayo)
June 27, 2023
Ireland
UAE
B
Bulawayo Athletic Club (Bulawayo)
ICC ODI Cricket World Cup Qualifier Fixtures & Schedule – Super Sixes Stage (June 29, 2023 – July 7, 2023)
Date
Team 1
Team 2
Venue
June 29, 2023
A2
B2
Queens Sports Club (Bulawayo)
June 30, 2023
A3
B1
Queens Sports Club (Bulawayo)
July 1, 2023
A1
B3
Harare Sports Club (Harare)
July 2, 2023
A2
B1
Queens Sports Club (Bulawayo)
July 3, 2023
A3
B2
Harare Sports Club (Harare)
July 4, 2023
A2
B3
Queens Sports Club (Bulawayo)
July 5, 2023
A1
B2
Harare Sports Club (Harare)
July 6, 2023
A3
B3
Queens Sports Club (Bulawayo)
July 7, 2023
A1
B1
Harare Sports Club (Harare)
ICC ODI Cricket World Cup Qualifier Fixtures & Schedule – Playoff Stage
Date
Playoff
Venue
June 30, 2023
7th Place Playoff Semi-Final
Takashinga Sports Club (Harare)
July 2, 2023
7th Place Playoff Semi-Final
Takashinga Sports Club (Harare)
July 4, 2023
7th Place Playoff
Takashinga Sports Club (Harare)
July 6, 2023
9th Place Playoff
Takashinga Sports Club (Harare)
ICC ODI Cricket World Cup Qualifier Fixtures & Schedule – The Final
Date
Final
Venue
July 9, 2023
TBD vs TBD
Harare Sports Club (Harare)
ICC ODI Cricket World Cup Qualifier – FAQs
Which teams will play in the 2023 ICC ODI Cricket World Cup Qualifiers?
Ireland, Nepal, Netherlands, Oman, Scotland, Sri Lanka, UAE, USA, West Indies, and Zimbabwe will compete in the 2023 ICC ODI Cricket World Cup Qualifier.
Where is the 2023 ICC ODI Cricket World Cup held?
The 2023 ICC ODI Cricket World Cup is held in Zimbabwe. It will be hosted in Harare and Bulawayo with four different stadiums in total (two in each city).
How many teams will qualify from the ODI World Cup Qualifiers to the main draw of the World Cup?
Only two teams will qualify for the 2023 ICC ODI World Cup to be held in India in October.
Which teams are favorites to qualify for the World Cup?
West Indies, Sri Lanka, Ireland, Scotland, and Zimbabwe are the favorites to get the two sports for the 2023 ODI World Cup.
Photo Credits: Original photo by Johan Rynners (ICC/ICC via Getty Images)
Are you curious to learn how many World Cups has Australia won? Here’s a quick answer—Australia has won a mammoth 26 World Cups & ICC tournaments across formats!
Welcome to our comprehensive guide on Australia’s exceptional cricketing achievements.
Last week, Australia defeated India to complete the only remaining trophy on their cabinet—The 2023 World Test Championship.
In this article, we’ll dive into the complete list of ICC trophies won by the mighty Aussies, including their World Cup triumphs in both Men’s and Women’s cricket, T20I victories, ODI successes, and U-19 accomplishments.
So, whether you’re an avid cricket fan or simply curious about Australia’s prowess on the pitch, we’ve got you covered with all the fascinating details. Let’s dive in and explore the rich legacy of Australian cricket!
Key Takeaways
Australia has won a total of 26 world tournaments in cricketout of 65 tournaments, a whopping 40%! (14 Under-19 World Cups, 12 Men’s ODI World Cups, 12 Women’s ODI World Cups, 8 Men’s T20 World Cups, 8 Women’s T20 World Cups, 8 Champions Trophies, 2 World Test Championships, and 1 Commonwealth Games). They have been in the finals on 34 occasions (52.3 %).
Australian women have lifted the trophy 14 times, the senior men’s side has won on 9 occasions, and the Under-19 men’s side has won a total of 3 times. This includes 7 Women’s ODI World Cup (1978, 1982, 1988, 1997, 2005, 2013, 2022), 6 Women’s T20 World Cups (2010, 2012, 2014, 2018, 2020, 2023), 5 Men’s ODI World Cup (1987, 1999, 2003, 2007, 2015), 3 Under-19 Men’s ODI World Cups (1988, 2002, 2010), 2 Champions Trophies (2005, 2009), 1 Commonwealth Gold (2022), 1 Men’s T20 World Cup (2021), and 1 World Test Championship (2023).
Meg Lanning has been Australia’s most successful captain, winning ICC trophies on six occasions (2014, 2018, 2021, 2023 T20 World Cups, 2022 Commonwealth Gold, 2023 ODI World Cup) followed by Ricky Ponting – 4 (2003, 2007 ODI World Cups, 2006 & 2009 Champions Trophy).Sharon Tredrea, Belinda Clark, and Jodie Fields have won two World Cups each as well.
The Australian cricket team has been 8 runners-up times. This includes twice each in the Women’s ODI World Cup (1973, 2000), Men’s ODI World Cup (1975, 1996), and Under-19 World Cup (2012, 2018), and once each in Men’s T20 World Cup (2010) and Women’s T20 World Cup (2016).
Fun Fact: In finals they have won, Australia’s favorite opposition has been England (8 times) followed by New Zealand (5), India (4), Pakistan (3), West Indies, and South Africa (2). They have won World Cups in almost every cricketing country – India, New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, England, West Indies, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and the UAE.
Australia’s cricketing prowess is nothing short of extraordinary, with a total of 26 world tournament victories and 8 runner-up finishes. Their impressive trophy cabinet boasts 7 Women’s ODI World Cups, 6 Women’s T20 World Cups, 5 Men’s ODI World Cups, 3 Under-19 Men’s ODI World Cups, 2 Champions Trophies, 1 Commonwealth Gold, 1 Men’s T20 World Cup, and 1 World Test Championship.
These remarkable achievements showcase the Australian cricket team’s consistent dominance on the international stage, making them a force to be reckoned with.
As we celebrate their cricketing legacy, we eagerly anticipate what the future holds for this exceptional team and the exciting milestones they are yet to conquer!
Australia’s World Cup Wins – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How Many times has Australia won the Cricket World Cup and other ICC trophies?
Australia have won 26 world tournaments in cricket. This includes 7 Women’s ODI World Cup (1978, 1982, 1988, 1997, 2005, 2013, 2022), 6 Women’s T20 World Cups (2010, 2012, 2014, 2018, 2020, 2023), 5 Men’s ODI World Cup (1987, 1999, 2003, 2007, 2015), 3 Under-19 Men’s ODI World Cups (1988, 2002, 2010), 2 Champions Trophies (2005, 2009), 1 Commonwealth Gold (2022), 1 Men’s T20 World Cup (2021), and 1 World Test Championship (2023).
2. How many times has Australia’s men team won the Cricket World Cup across formats?
Australia men’s cricket team has won five ODI cricket World Cups (1987, 1999, 2003, 2007, 2015). They have also won one T20 cricket World Cup (2021) and one World Test Championship (2023). In addition, they have also won 2 ICC Champions Trophy and 3 Under-19 World Cups.
3. How many cricket World Cups has Australia women’s team won across formats?
Australia women’s cricket team has won 7 ODI cricket World Cups (1978, 1982, 1988, 1997, 2005, 2013, 2022), 6 T20 World Cups (2010, 2012, 2014, 2018, 2020, 2023), and one Commonwealth Gold (2022).
Major League Cricket Schedule is now live, and we bring you the latest information—Schedule, Fixtures, Tickets, Venues, and more!
Let’s get right to it!
Where Will Major League Cricket (MLC) 2023 be Played?
Major League Cricket (MLC) 2023 will be played in the Grand Prairie Stadium, Texas & Church Street Park, North Carolina.
The tournament will be divided into 3 rounds. The first round (8 matches) and Playoff/Finals (4 matches) will be played at the Grand Prairie Stadium, while the second round (7 matches) will be played at Church Street Park.
How Many Matches Will be Played in Major League Cricket (MLC) 2023?
19 matches will be played in the inaugural Major League Cricket (MLC). 15 matches will be group matches while 4 matches will be playoffs & the championship final.
Each team will be 5 matches (round-robin format between the 6 teams).
Where Can I buy tickets for Major League Cricket (MLC) 2023?
After one day break, Round 2 of MLC 2023 will be held in North Carolina.
Matches in Round 2 (07/20/2023-07/25/2023) can be purchased as ‘Round 2 Pass’ package starting from $73.
Where is Church Street Park cricket stadium located?
The Church Streek Park cricket stadium is located at 5800 Cricket Pitch Way, Morrisville, North Carolina.
Is parking available at Church Street Park?
Free parking is available nearby (offsite with an option of free shuttle to the stadium).
All times for this location below are in Eastern Daylight Time (EDT).
Major League Cricket 2023 – Round 2 Fixtures
9. Washington Freedom vs LA Knight Riders, 20 July 2023
Day: Thursday
Time: 5:30 PM
Ticket Price (starting from): $15
Venue: Church Street Park
10. Seattle Orcas vs Texas Super Kings, 21 July 2023
Day: Friday
Time: 5:30 PM
Ticket Price (starting from): $15
Venue: Church Street Park
11. Washington Freedom vs SF Unicorns, 22 July 2023
Day: Saturday
Time: 3:30 PM
Ticket Price (starting from): $15
Venue: Church Street Park
12. LA Knight Riders vs Seattle Orcas, 23 July 2023
Day: Sunday
Time: 1:30 PM
Ticket Price (starting from): $23 (for both the double-header games)
Venue: Church Street Park
13. MI New York vs Washington Freedom, 23 July 2023
Day: Saturday
Time: 5:30 PM
Ticket Price (starting from): $23 (for both the double-header games)
Venue: Church Street Park
14. SF Unicorns vs Texas Super Kings, 24 July 2023
Day: Monday
Time: 5:30 PM
Ticket Price (starting from): $12
Venue: Church Street Park
15. MI New York vs Seattle Orcas, 25 July 2023
Day: Tuesday
Time: 5:30 PM
Ticket Price (starting from): $12
Venue: Church Street Park
Major League Cricket Round 3 – The Playoffs & Championship
Matches in Round 3 (Playoffs & Championship) of Major League Cricket 2023 can be purchased together as a ‘Playoffs & Championship Pass’ package starting from $106.
Major League Cricket 2023 – Round 3 Fixtures
16. Eliminator, 27 July 2023
Day: Thursday
Time: 3:30 PM
Ticket Price (starting from): $51 (for both the double-header games)
Venue: Grand Prairie Stadium
17. Qualifier, 27 July 2023
Day: Thursday
Time: 7:30 PM
Ticket Price (starting from): $51 (for both the double-header games)
Venue: Grand Prairie Stadium
18. Challenger, 28 July 2023
Day: Friday
Time: 7:30 PM
Ticket Price (starting from): $36
Venue: Grand Prairie Stadium
The Loser of the Qualifier will play the Winner of the Eliminator in this match.
Major League Cricket 2023 – The Finals
19. Championship, 30 July 2023
Day: Sunday
Time: 7:30 PM
Ticket Price (starting from): $45
Venue: Grand Prairie Stadium
Major League Cricket Schedule – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many matches will be played in Major League Cricket 2023 in the USA?
19 matches will be played in Major League Cricket 2023.
Which cricket stadiums will host MLC 2023?
The Grand Prairie Stadium in Texas and Church Street Park cricket stadium in North Carolina will host Major League Cricket 2023.
How many matches will each team play in Major League Cricket?
Major League Cricket will be played in a round-robin format with each team playing 5 matches each.
How much do Major League Cricket tickets cost?
Major League Tickets cost as low as $12 and range to as high as $200 for multiple-match packages.
Muttiah Muralitharan (800), Shane Warne (792), Jimmy Anderson* (688), Anil Kumble (619), Stuart Broad* (600), Glenn Mcgrath (563), and Courtney Walsh (519) have taken the most wickets in Test cricket.
Today, we go in-depth and discuss the stats and characteristics of the highest wicket-takers in Test cricket. Here is the comprehensive list of the Top 26 cricketers with the most wickets in Test cricket.
26 bowlers have taken 350 or more wickets in Test cricket. From this, 17 bowlers have taken 400+ wickets, while only 7 have scaled the 500+ mountain.
18 fast bowlers, six off-spinners, and two leg-spinners make up the list of 26 highest wicket-takers in Test history. 23 of them are right-arm bowlers while three are left-arm bowlers.
Australia and India (4)have produced the most bowlers with 350+ Test wickets, while Sri Lanka, South Africa, West Indies, England, and New Zealand (3) are tied for second place.
Jimmy Anderson (688), Stuart Broad (589), Nathan Lyon (496), and Ravichandran Ashwin (474) are the only active cricketers on this list.
*still playing
Test Cricket Bowling Records: Top 25 Highest Wicket-Takers in Test Cricket History
Test cricket is one of the oldest and most revered forms of the game.
Through its long and storied history, some truly great bowlers have emerged, with many of them going on to become the greatest wicket-takers in Test cricket history. In this article, we’ll look at a list of the highest wicket-takers in Test cricket history, and what makes them among the best bowlers that ever played the game.
Let’s take a look.
1. Muttiah Muralitharan (Sri Lanka) – 800 Test Wickets
Years Played: 1992-2010
Test Matches Played: 133
Average: 22.72, Strike Rate: 55.04
5-fer/10-fer: 67/22
Muttiah Muralitharan, a Sri Lanka offspinner, is the leading wicket-taker in Test cricket. He achieved these feats throughout his career between 1992 and 2010 — his bowling average was a spectacular 22.72. With an unusual action, fear in his eyes, and skill on display, Murali regularly blew the opposition away.
James Anderson is probably the golden standard of swing bowling in Test cricket. He started playing bowling in 2003 and is still going strong. His longevity is one to admire, and his consistency one to emulate. We can just hope this journey continues for a few more Tests.
Anil Kumble was known for his accurate leg-spin skills. Fortitude and desire were the main elements in Kumble’s game. ‘Jumbo’ as he was referred to, was a mainstay for Indian cricket for more than a decade. He will always be remembered for the 10-fer vs Pakistan at the Feroz Shah Kotla.
Since starting his Test match career in 2007, England’s Stuart Broad has been regarded as a favorite by many.With Jimmy Anderson, Broad formed a formidable partnership for years to come. When he is in form, Broad’s spells are a joy to witness.
Australian quick bowler Glenn McGrath has become a cult figure with his length and his line. An iconic cricketer, he created a destructive combination with Shane Warne during Australia’s golden generation.
7. Courtney Walsh (West Indies) – 519 Test Wickets
Years Played: 1984-2001
Test Matches Played: 132
Average: 24.44, Strike Rate: 57.84
5-fer/10-fer: 22/3
Courtney Walsh, a West Indian Indian fast bowler, is well known for his longevity, speed, and precision. His fast-bowling relationship with Curtly Ambrose was an aggressive and intimidating experience.
In 2011 Nathan Lyon made his first appearance as Australia’s leading spin bowler. Lyon is known for his enduring tenacity and has been one of the iconic off-spinners of his generation.
9. Ravichandran Ashwin (India) – 474* Test Wickets
Years Played: 2011-
Test Matches Played: 92*
Average: 23.93, Strike Rate: 51.84
5-fer/10-fer: 32/7
Ravichandran Ashwin is the most successful spin-bowling all-rounder India has ever produced. His range of spinning deliveries has consistently earned him wickets and is one of the great thinkers of the game. In addition to his impressive bowling stats, Ashwin also boasts 5 Test centuries.
Dale Steyn was one of the most feared fast bowlers in Test cricket for over a decade, and his stats prove it. With an impressive strike rate of 42.38, Steyn consistently took wickets throughout his career to become South Africa’s most successful bowler since Allan Donald and Shaun Pollock. His ability to swing the ball both ways made him as dangerous as any bowler in the world.
Kapil Dev is considered by many to be India’s greatest-ever cricketer. Although not a traditionally fast bowler like Dale Steyn or Malcolm Marshall, Kapil had a great ability to extract bounce from any pitch and was capable of bowling long spells of accuracy with great success – something that often goes unrecognized.
Rangana Herath is one of the most successful spin bowlers to ever play Test cricket and was a mainstay in the Sri Lankan team since his debut in 1999. His ability to extract turn from even the driest of pitches made him one of the toughest bowlers to face, as did his commitment to bowling accurate line and length for long periods of time. In addition, Herath was also capable of picking up wickets in quick succession, making him a dangerous bowler in the fourth innings.
13. Sir Richard Hadlee (New Zealand) – 431 Test Wickets
Years Played: 1973–1990
Test Matches Played: 86
Average: 22.29, Strike Rate: 50.85
5-fer/10-fer: 36/9
Sir Richard Hadlee is one of the greatest all-rounders to grace the cricket field and was a regular in the New Zealand Test team from 1973 until 1990. A genuine fast bowler with great swing and accuracy, Sir Richard picked up 431 wickets over his career at an outstanding average of 22 – making him one of the most successful bowlers in Test cricket history.
14. Shaun Pollock (South Africa) – 421 Test Wickets
Years Played: 1995–2008
Test Matches Played: 108
Average: 23.11, Strike Rate: 57.84
5-fer/10-fer: 16/1
In spite of his relative lack of pace, Pollock was able to compensate with impeccable accuracy and line & length, and the result was 421 Test wickets at an impressive average of 23. His ability to swing the ball both ways, combined with his knack for picking up wickets in clusters, saw him play a crucial role in South Africa’s rise as a cricketing superpower.
Harbhajan Singh is one of India’s most famous spinners and was central to India’s famous series win over Australia on home soil in 2001. With 417 Test wickets under his belt and an economy rate of just under three runs per over, Harbhajan consistently proved himself to be a valuable asset for the Indian team. His ability to take wickets in clusters, combined with his sharp off-breaks and top spinners, made him one of the most successful spinners in Indian Test cricket history.
Wasim Akram is widely regarded as one of the greatest fast bowlers ever to have graced a cricket field and it is no surprise that he is also amongst the highest wicket-takers in Test cricket history with 414 scalps throughout his illustrious career. His ability to swing the ball both ways, combined with his nagging accuracy and excellent control made him a nightmare for batsmen all over the world. He is certainly a legend of the game.
18. Makhaya Ntini (South Africa) – 390 Test Wickets
Years Played: 1998–2009
Test Matches Played: 101
Average: 28.82, Strike Rate: 53.42
5-fer/10-fer: 18/4
Makhaya Ntini was one of South Africa’s most successful bowlers in Test cricket and a mainstay in the Proteas team since his debut in 1998. With Pollock, Kallis, Donald, and later Steyn, Morkel, Rabada, Ngidi, & Nortje, his influence on South Africa’s pace bowling cannot be understated.
Sir Ian Botham is undoubtedly one of the greatest all-rounders ever to play cricket. Along with Kapil Dev, Imran Khan, & Sir Richard Hadlee, these four formed the golden generation of all-rounders.
Apart from Malcolm Marshall & Dale Steyn, Waqar Younis is the other fast bowler with a bowling strike rate in the low forties. With the ability to break stumps at will and bowl deadly yorkers, he formed the perfect foil with Wasim Akram.
Tim Southee is one of New Zealand’s most successful bowlers in Test cricket and has been a mainstay in the Black Caps team since his debut in 2008. He is best known for his ability to swing the ball both ways, combined with his accurate line & length and good control. After 2014, it was the partnership of Southee-Boult that would plant the seeds for the 2021 World Test Championship victory.
Imran Khan is one of the greatest icons of Pakistan cricket. He holds the distinction of leading a nation to a World Cup victory…as well as leading a nation as a Prime Minister.
24. Daniel Vettori (New Zealand) – 362 Test Wickets
Years Played: 1997–2014
Test Matches Played: 113
Average: 34.36, Strike Rate: 79.59
5-fer/10-fer: 20/3
Daniel Vettori was New Zealand’s sole spin sensation in a land of fast bowlers, swing kings, and dibbly-dobbler specialists. Although his strike rate is a bit on the high side, it was the economy of 2.59 that helped the Kiwis to maintain control.
The final bowler on the 350+ Test wicket list is none other than Chaminda Vaas. Central to Sri Lanka’s rise into the upper echelons of Test cricket, Vaas became their most successful fast bowler.
The list of the highest wicket-takers in Test cricket history is a testament to the skill, determination, and excellence that each of these great players has shown throughout their careers.
Each bowler has left an indelible mark on the game, making them all true legends of the sport.
These bowlers have set a high standard for future generations to strive for and will undoubtedly be remembered as some of the greatest Test cricketers ever.
Who is your all-time favorite bowler in Test cricket?
Frequently Asked Questions
Who has taken the most wickets in Test cricket?
Muttiah Muralitharan has taken the most wickets in Test cricket (800).
Can Jimmy Anderson take 700 Test wickets?
Yes, Jimmy Anderson is currently on 685 wickets and will play the 5-match Ashes series against England at home. He may not play all the matches but should still get to the coveted 700-wicket mark.
Who has 4000 runs and 400 wickets in Test matches?
Kapil Dev is the only Indian player with 4000 Test runs and 400 Test wickets in Test history.
How many cricketers have taken 300 wickets or more in Test cricket?
37 bowlers have taken 300 or more wickets in Test cricket. From this, 26 have gone on to take 350 wickets, 17 have taken 400 wickets, and only 7 bowlers have taken 500+ Test wickets.
Who is the leading wicket-taker in Test for England?
Jimmy Anderson is the leader wicket-taker for England in Test cricket with 685 wickets to his name.
