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Top 51 Greatest South African Cricketers of All-Time (Updated 2024) | List of the Best South African Cricket Players (A Complete Guide)

Who are the greatest South African cricketers of all-time?

With the passing of Mike Procter, the Proteas family lost another legend. Today we explore the list of greatest cricketers this African nation has produced.

Let’s dive right in.

Key Takeaways

  • Jacques Kallis, Dale Steyn, AB De Villiers, Graeme Pollock, Barry Richards, Graeme Smith, Hashim Amla, Mike Procter, and Allan Donald have been judged as the Top 10 South African Cricketers of All-Time.
  • We included several players whose careers coincided with South African’s international isolation due to apartheid (1970-1990), namely Graeme Pollock, Barry Richards, Mike Procter, Clive Rice, Eddie Barlow, Jimmy Cook, Kepler Wessels, Peter Kirsten, David Richardson, Garth le Roux, Ken McEwan and Vintcent van der Bijl.

Table of Contents

By the Numbers: The Most Prolific South African Cricketers

Some of the criteria we used to compile this list includes: Most Wickets/Runs in International Cricket*, international caps, ICC Hall of Fame status, World Cup performances, captaincy record, fielding & keeping record, anecdotes (especially for players in the early twentieth century), and match winning performances.

*We considered also considered first class stats for the pre-1990s eras.

Top 10 Most Wickets by South African Bowlers Across Formats: Which South African Cricketer Has taken the Most Wickets?

We first look at the top 10 wicket-takers across formats. Also listed below are the top few wicket-takers in each format for South Africa.

  • Test: Dale Steyn (439), Shaun Pollock (421), Makhaya Ntini (390), Allan Donald (330), Morne Morkel (309)
  • ODI: Shaun Pollock (387), Alland Donald (272), Jacques Kallis (269), Makhaya Ntini (265), Dale Steyn (194)
  • T20I: Tabriz Shamsi (78), Dale Steyn (64), Imran Tahir (61), Lungi Ngidi (60), Wayne Parnell (59)
PlayerWickets
Shaun Pollock823
Dale Steyn697
Makhaya Ntini661
Allan Donald602
Jacques Kallis572
Morne Morkel535
Kagiso Rabada506
Imran Tahir291
Lance Klusener272
Vernon Philander269

*Does not include wickets taken for World XI teams

Top 10 Most Runs by South African Batters Across Formats: Which South African Cricketer Has Scored the Most Runs?

We now move on to the batting side of things.

  • Test: Jacques Kallis (13206), Hashim Amla (9282), Graeme Smith (9253), AB de Villiers (8765), Gary Kirsten (7289)
  • ODI: Jacques Kallis (11550), AB de Villiers (9427), Hashim Amla (8113), Herschelle Gibbs (8094), Graeme Smith (6989)
  • T20I: Quinton de Kock (2277), David Miller (2227), JP Duminy (1934)
PlayerRunsCenturies
Jacques Kallis2542262
AB de Villiers1986447
Hashim Amla1855355
Graeme Smith1722437
Herschelle Gibbs1466135
Gary Kirsten1408734
Quinton de Kock1234728
Faf du Plessis1113623
Mark Boucher102896
Hansie Cronje92798

Other South African Records

Here are some other stats that will help us give us a complete picture.

  • Most Dismissals/Catches Combined: Mark Boucher (988), Quinton de Kock (550), AB de Villiers (475), Jacques Kallis (334), David Richardson (317)
  • The 100-Test Club: Jacques Kallis (165), Mark Boucher (146), Hashim Amla (124), Graeme Smith (116), AB de Villiers (114), Shaun Pollock (108), Gary Kirsten (101), Makhaya Ntini (101)
  • Most Matches as Test Captain: Graeme Smith (108), Hansie Cronje (53), Faf du Plessis (36), Shaun Pollock (26), Dean Elgar (18)
  • Most Matches as ODI Captain: Graeme Smith (149), Hansie Cronje (138), AB de Villiers (103), Shaun Pollock (92), Kepler Wessels (52)
  • List of South African Players in the ICC Hall of Fame: Allan Donald, Aubrey Faulkner, Jacques Kallis, Graeme Pollock, Shaun Pollock, Barry Richards

Also Read:

Top 51 Greatest South African Cricketers of All-Time (Ranked)

Without further ado, here is the complete list of the 50 greatest South African cricketers of all-time. Enjoy!

Note: Basil D’Oliveira is not considered since he played international cricket for England. He was born in South Africa and moved to England in 1966.

51. Colin Bland (1961-1966)

  • Role: Batter
  • Matches: 21 (Test), 131 (FC)
  • Runs: 1669 (Test), 7249 (FC)
  • Hundreds: 3 (Test), 13 (FC)
  • Catches: 10 (Test), 51 (FC)

Colin Bland revolutionized fielding with unmatched athleticism and set an example for future Protea teams. According to ESPNCricinfo, “Colin Bland will go down in cricket history as one of the greatest cover fielders.” With such greatness, I had to put him in this list.

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50. JP Duminy (2004-2019)

  • Role: All-Rounder (Left Handed Batter, Right Arm Off Spinner)
  • Matches: 46 (Test), 199 (ODI), 81 (T20I)
  • Runs: 2103 (Test), 5117 (ODI), 1934 (T20I)
  • Hundreds: 6 (Test), 4 (ODI)
  • Wickets: 42 (Test), 69 (ODI)

JP Duminy specialized in playing cameos in pressure situations down the order. Played a key part in the monumental 414 chase against Australia at Perth in the 4th innings, stitching a 111-run partnership with AB de Villiers.kepp

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49. Fanie de Villiers (1992-1998)

  • Role: Fast Bowler
  • Matches: 18 (Test), 83 (ODI)
  • Wickets: 85 (Test), 95 (ODI)
  • 5-fers: 5 (Test)

Fanie de Villiers, a force to be reckoned with in South African cricket during the 1990s, claimed 85 Test scalps and 121 ODI dismissals with his precise bowling

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48. Jock Cameron (1927-1935)

  • Role: Wicketkeeper Batter
  • Matches: 26 (Test), 107 (FC)
  • Runs: 1239 (Test), 5396 (FC)
  • Hundreds: 11 (FC)
  • Dismissals: 51 (Test), 224 (FC)

Jock Cameron, a cricketing stalwart of the early 20th century, distinguished himself with his masterful wicketkeeping skills and gritty batting. Once in a 1929 County cricket match, he took six catches and also had one stumping.

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47. Kepler Wessels (1982-1994)

  • Role: Left Handed Batter
  • Matches: 16 (Test), 55 (ODI)
  • Runs: 1027 (Test), 1627 (ODI),
  • Hundreds: 2 (Test)

Kepler Wessels, a true pioneer in South African cricket, won hearts with his gutsy batting, shrewd leadership, and the sheer joy he brought to the game, playing a key part in the nation’s cricketing resurgence while charming fans with his infectious spirit and love for the sport. Played for both Australia and South Africa.

*Only South African statistics shown. Overall, he played 40 Tests & 109 ODIs.

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46. Jonny Waite (1951-1965)

  • Role: Wicketkeeper Batter
  • Matches: 50 (Test), 199 (FC)
  • Runs: 2405 (Test), 9812 (FC)
  • Hundreds: 4 (Test), 23 (FC)
  • Dismissals: 141 (Test), 511 (FC)

First South African to play 50 Tests. A constant force behind the stumps much like Boucher in the 2000s. Holds the South African record for joint most dismissals (26) in a 5-Test series.

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45. David Richardson (1991-1998)

  • Role: Wicketkeeper Batter
  • Matches: 42 (Test), 122 (ODI)
  • Runs: 1359 (Test), 868 (ODI)
  • Hundreds: 1 (Test)
  • Dismissals: 152 (Test), 165 (ODI)

Now known for his administrative positions in the ICC, Richardson was earlier South Africa’s keeper post the isolation period. Solid keeper.

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44. Jackie McGlew (1951-1962)

  • Role: Batter
  • Matches: 34 (Test), 190 (FC)
  • Runs: 2440 (Test), 12170 (FC)
  • Hundreds: 7 (Test), 27 (FC)

One of the most classical batters in South African history, producing some of the slowest innings of all-time. Noted for carrying the bat and batting for nine hours for a 105 against Australia.

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43. David Miller (2010-)

  • Role: Left Handed Batter
  • Matches: 173 (ODI), 116 (T20I)
  • Runs: 4458 (ODI), 2268 (T20I)
  • Hundreds: 6 (ODI), 2 (T20I)

A specialist limited over batter, Miller will go down as perhaps the greatest #6 ODI batter of all-time along with Michael Bevan, Jos Buttler, and MS Dhoni.

At #6, Miller scored 2718 runs, 3 centuries, and twenty 50+ scores at an average of 40.56 & 104.78 SR. When in form, Killer Miller is just a sight to watch.

*He might rise up the list by the end of his career.

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42. Jonty Rhodes (1992-2003)

  • Role: Batter
  • Matches: 52 (Test), 245 (ODI)
  • Runs: 2532 (Test), 5935 (ODI)
  • Hundreds: 3 (Test), 2 (ODI)
  • Catches: 34 (Test), 105 (ODI)

Not many people can boast that they changed their field of expertise. Jonty Rhodes definitely did. With his iconic diving catches and flying run outs, he captured audiences worldwide.

Also Read: Top 32 Best Fielders in Cricket History: Jonty Rhodes, Paul Collingwood…Can You Guess The Rest?

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41. Daryll Cullinan (1993-2001)

  • Role: Batter
  • Matches: 70 (Test), 138 (ODI)
  • Runs: 4554 (Test), 3860 (ODI)
  • Hundreds: 14 (Test), 3 (ODI)

Daryll Cullinan, renowned for his elegant batting, showcased his prowess in memorable matches like his 275 against New Zealand in 1999, and his crucial knocks against Sri Lanka and England, solidifying his reputation as a key figure in South African cricket during the 90s.

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40. Vintcent van der Bijl (1967-1983)

  • Role: Fast Bowler
  • Matches: 156 (FC), 92 (List A)
  • Wickets: 767 (FC), 132 (List A)
  • 5-fers: 46 (FC), 4 (List A)

Held the record for most wickets in a South Africa’s domestic season (65) at that time. Played his entire career in South Africa’s isolation.

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39. Brian McMillan (1991-1998)

  • Role: All-Rounder
  • Matches: 38 (Test), 78 (ODI)
  • Runs: 1968 (Test), 841 (ODI)
  • Hundreds: 3 (Test), 1 (ODI)
  • Wickets: 75 (Test), 70 (ODI)

Brian McMillan, a key figure in South African cricket during the 1990s, played pivotal roles in memorable matches such as the 1992 World Cup and the historic readmission series, showcasing his all-round skills with both bat and ball

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38. Garth Le Roux (1975-1989)

  • Role: Bowling All-Rounder
  • Matches: 239 (FC), 250 (List A)
  • Runs: 5425 (FC), 3151 (List A)
  • Wickets: 838 (FC), 378 (List A)
  • 5-fers: 35 (FC), 5 (list A)

Garth le Roux, a fearsome fast bowler, struck fear into batsmen with his raw pace and hostile deliveries, making him a formidable force in South African cricket during the 1980s, and leaving a lasting impact with his aggressive bowling style and crucial wicket-taking ability.

*His entire career was during South Africa’s isolation

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37. Herbie Taylor (1912-1932)

  • Role: Batter
  • Matches: 42 (Test), 206 (FC)
  • Runs: 2936 (Test), 13105 (FC)
  • Hundreds: 7 (Test), 30 (FC)

Herbie Taylor, a cricketing legend of the early 20th century, was celebrated for his elegant batting style and astute captaincy, leading South Africa with distinction and leaving an enduring legacy as one of the country’s finest batsmen and leaders on the cricket field.

Also served in World War I.

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36. Jimmy Sinclair (1896-1911)

  • Role: All-Rounder
  • Matches: 25 (Test), 129 (FC)
  • Runs: 1069 (Test), 4483 (FC)
  • Hundreds: 3 (Test), 6 (FC)
  • Wickets: 63 (Test), 491 (FC)
  • 5-fers: 1 (Test), 33 (FC)

Jimmy Sinclair, a cricketing pioneer of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, captivated audiences with his exceptional batting and laid the foundation for South African cricket’s rich heritage.

One of South Africa’s earliest cricket legends.

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35. Dean Elgar (2012-2024)

  • Role: Left Handed Batter
  • Matches: 86 (Test), 8 (ODI)
  • Runs: 5347 (Test), 104 (ODI)
  • Hundreds: 14 (Test)

One of the premier left handed batters of the 2010s, Elgar’s leadership ensured that South Africa had one world class senior batter during their transition period. One word comes to mind when watching Elgar bat, tenacity. Ready to take body blows and challenge the world.

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34. Vernon Philander (2007-2020)

  • Role: Fast Bowling All-Rounder
  • Matches: 64 (Test), 30 (ODI), 7 (T20I)
  • Wickets: 224 (Test), 41 (ODI), 4 (T20I)
  • 5-fers: 13 (Test)

Vernon Philander gave the South African bowling an edge like never before. They have always had pace, seam, and bounce. Philander’s ability to swing it both ways was exactly what the Proteas needed to complement Steyn & Morkel.

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33. Trevor Goddard (1955-1970)

  • Role: All-Rounder (Left Handed Batter, Left Arm Medium Pacer)
  • Matches: 41 (Test), 179 (FC)
  • Runs: 2516 (Test), 11289 (FC)
  • Hundreds: 1 (Test), 26 (FC)
  • Wickets: 123 (Test), 534 (FC)
  • 5-fers: 5 (Test), 24 (FC)

Trevor Goddard, a cricketing stalwart of the 1950s and 1960s, was a formidable all-rounder celebrated for his left-arm spin bowling and solid batting, playing a pivotal role in South African cricket history with his match-winning contributions and leadership on the field, earning him a revered status among fans and peers alike.

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32. Peter Kirsten (1973-1997)

  • Role: Batter
  • Matches: 12 (Test), 40 (ODI), 327 (FC), 358 (List A)
  • Runs: 626 (Test), 1293 (ODI), 22635 (FC), 11403 (List A)
  • Hundreds: 1 (Test), 57 (FC), 10 (List A)

Played international a few years past his prime due to international isolation. 22,635 first class runs is a testament to his talent.

*played 12 Tests and 40 ODIs from 1991-1994

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31. Ken McEwan (1972-1992)

  • Role: Wicketkeeper Batter
  • Matches: 428 (FC), 409 (List A)
  • Runs: 26628 (FC), 11866 (List A)
  • Hundreds: 74 (FC), 16 (List A)
  • Dismissals: 366 (FC), 142 (List A)

30. Neil Adcock (1953-1962)

  • Role: Fast Bowler
  • Matches: 26 (Test), 99 (FC)
  • Wickets: 104 (Test), 405 (FC)
  • 5-fers: 5 (Test), 19 (FC)

First South African fast bowler to 100 test wickets. One of the early greats of South African proud fast bowling history.

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29. Faf du Plessis (2011-)

  • Role: Batter
  • Matches: 69 (Test), 143 (ODI), 50 (T20I)
  • Runs: 4163 (Test), 5507 (ODI), 1528 (T20I)
  • Hundreds: 10 (Test), 12 (ODI), 1 (T20I)

A late entrant on the international stage, he grabbed his opportunity with both hands. His epic at Adelaide, blockathon at Delhi, and captaincy towards the end of his career, was the highlight of his career. Still plies his trade around the world after re-inventing himself as a swashbuckling T20 opener.

Also Read: Faf du Plessis & AB De Villiers’ Friendship: Broken Dreams of Faf and ABD

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28. Bruce Mitchell (1929-1949)

  • Role: Batter/Leg Spinner
  • Matches: 42 (Test), 173 (FC)
  • Runs: 3471 (Test), 11395 (FC)
  • Hundreds: 8 (Test), 30 (FC)

Bruce Mitchell, a luminary of South African cricket during the 1930s and 1940s, captivated audiences with his elegant stroke play and strategic brilliance, amassing over 3,000 Test runs at an impressive average of 48.88.

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27. Imran Tahir (2011-2019)

  • Role: Leg Spinner
  • Matches: 20 (Test), 107 (ODI), 38 (T20I), 404 (T20)
  • Wickets: 57 (Test), 173 (ODI), 63 (T20I), 502 (T20)
  • 5-fers: 2 (Test), 3 (ODI), 2 (T20I), 4 (T20)

If you search hard enough, Imran Tahir is probably still playing somewhere around the world and running around the ground with his infectious celebration. Completed South Africa’s bowling attack in the 2010s. One of the greatest spinners to play for South Africa and definitely the greatest leg spinner.

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26. Jimmy Cook (1972-1995)

  • Role: Batter
  • Matches: 3 (Test), 4 (ODI), 270 (FC), 286 (List A)
  • Runs: 107 (Test), 67 (ODI), 21143 (FC), 10639 (List A)
  • Hundreds: 64 (FC), 24 (ODI)

Jimmy Cook, a stalwart of South African cricket during the apartheid era, demonstrated exceptional resilience and skill, dominating domestic cricket with his prolific run-scoring and earning widespread admiration despite being denied international opportunities due to the country’s sporting isolation.

*played 3 Tests and 4 ODIs between 1991-1993.

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Top 25 Greatest South African Cricketers of All-Time: Absolute Greats

We are halfway there…

25. Quinton de Kock (2012-)

  • Role: Wicketkeeper Batter
  • Matches: 54 (Test), 155 (ODI), 80 (T20I)
  • Runs: 3300 (Test), 6770 (ODI), 2277 (T20I)
  • Hundreds: 6 (Test), 21 (ODI), 1 (T20I)
  • Dismissals: 232 (Test), 226 (ODI), 92 (T20I)

A child prodigy that fulfilled his potential. After Graeme Smith retired, Quinton de Kock fit straight through. Even though his Test and ODI careers did not last as long as people would have wanted, he provided plenty of memories. He always got his best out against India and his swivel sixes is still one of the sweetest shots in cricket.

*may continue to rise up the list

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24. Kagiso Rabada (2014-)

  • Role: Fast Bowler
  • Matches: 62 (Test), 101 (ODI), 56 (T20I)
  • Wickets: 291 (Test), 157 (ODI), 58 (T20I)
  • 5-fers: 14 (Test), 2 (ODI)

One of the top bowlers of the current era. Alongside Jasprit Bumrah, Rabada is a complete bowler across formats. If he stays fit, he has the potential to break Steyn’s record of 439 Test wickets.

*will most likely continue to rise up this list

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23. Dudley Nourse (1935-1951)

  • Role: Batter
  • Matches: 34 (Test), 175 (FC)
  • Runs: 2960 (Test), 12472 (FC)
  • Hundreds: 9 (Test), 41 (FC)

Dudley Nourse, a cricketing legend of the mid-20th century, captivated audiences with his elegant batting style and remarkable consistency, leaving an enduring legacy as one of South Africa’s finest batsmen, whose contributions during the pre- and post-war era remain etched in cricketing folklore.

He served in the Middle East during the World War.

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22. Peter Pollock (1961-1970)

  • Role: Fast Bowler
  • Matches: 28 (Test), 127 (FC)
  • Wickets: 116 (Test), 485 (FC)
  • 5-fers: 9 (Test), 27 (FC)

Peter Pollock, a pace bowling sensation of the 1960s and 1970s, showcased his fiery pace and lethal accuracy, leaving a lasting impact on South African cricket with his ability to dismantle batting lineups, epitomizing the spirit of aggression and skill on the field.

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21. Hansie Cronje (1992-2000)

  • Role: All-Rounder
  • Matches: 68 (Test), 188 (ODI)
  • Runs: 3714 (Test), 5565 (ODI)
  • Hundreds: 6 (Test), 2 (ODI)
  • Wickets: 43 (Test), 114 (ODI)
  • 5-fers: 1 (ODI)

Charismatic batter. Even more charismatic captain. Legacy tarnished due to the match fixing scandal. Died too early.

Also Read: Netflix ‘Bad Sport’ Fallen Idol Review: Must Watch for All Cricket Fans – How Will History Judge Hansie Cronje?

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20. Morne Morkel (2006-2008)

  • Role: Fast Bowler
  • Matches: 86 (Test), 117 (ODI), 44 (T20I)
  • Wickets: 309 (Test), 188 (ODI), 47 (T20I)
  • 5-fers: 8 (Test), 2 (ODI)

For every Michael Jordan, there is a Scottie Pippen. The height and constant line and length made him a threatening bowler. Combined with Steyn, the duo destroyed plenty of batting line ups around the world.

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19. Eddie Barlow (1961-1970)

  • Role: All-Rounder
  • Matches: 30 (Test), 283 (FC)
  • Runs: 2516 (Test), 18212 (FC)
  • Hundreds: 6 (Test), 43 (FC)
  • Wickets: 40 (Test), 571 (FC)
  • 5-fers: 1 (Test), 16 (FC)

Eddie Barlow, the dynamic all-rounder of South Africa in the 1960s and 1970s, left an indelible mark with memorable performances like his 114 against Australia in 1966 and his vital contributions in the series against England in 1965

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18. Gary Kirsten (1993-2004)

  • Role: Left Handed Batter
  • Matches: 101 (Test), 185 (ODI)
  • Runs: 7289 (Test), 6798 (ODI)
  • Hundreds: 21 (Test), 13 (ODI)

Gary Kirsten, a prolific batsman of the modern era, distinguished himself with his exceptional technique and unyielding determination, playing a pivotal role in South African cricket’s resurgence in the 1990s and early 2000s. He produced memorable performances such as his monumental 275 against England in 1999 and 188* in an ODI, solidifying his status as one of the nation’s cricketing icons.

Coached India to 2011 World Cup victory to further cement his name in history.

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17. Makhaya Ntini (1998-2011)

  • Role: Fast Bowler
  • Matches: 101 (Test), 173 (ODI), 10 (T20I)
  • Wickets: 390 (Test), 266 (ODI), 6 (T20I)
  • 5-fers: 18 (Test), 8 (ODI)

Makhaya Ntini, a relentless fast bowler, broke barriers as the first black African cricketer to play for South Africa, leaving an indelible mark with his raw pace, fierce competitiveness, and memorable performances, inspiring a generation of young cricketers and symbolizing the transformation of South African cricket.

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16. Aubrey Faulkner (1906-1924)

  • Role: All-Rounder
  • Matches: 25 (Test), 118 (FC)
  • Runs: 1754 (Test), 6366 (FC)
  • Hundreds: 4 (Test), 13 (FC)
  • Wickets: 82 (Test), 449 (FC)
  • 5-fers: 4 (Test), 33 (FC)

Aubrey Faulkner, a cricketing pioneer of the early 20th century, mesmerized audiences with his remarkable all-round abilities, excelling as a stylish batsman and a cunning spin bowler, leaving an enduring legacy as one of South Africa’s greatest cricketers and a trailblazer for generations to come.

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15. Hugh Tayfield (1949-1960)

  • Role: Off Spinner
  • Matches: 37 (Test), 187 (FC)
  • Wickets: 170 (Test), 864 (FC)
  • 5-fers: 14 (Test), 67 (FC)

Hugh Tayfield, a spin bowling maestro of the 1950s, spun his way into cricketing history with his impeccable accuracy and cunning variations, amassing a record-breaking tally of wickets for South Africa and etching his name among the pantheon of cricketing legends.

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14. Mark Boucher (1997-2012)

  • Role: Wicketkeeper Batter
  • Matches: 147 (Test), 295 (ODI), 25 (T20I)
  • Runs: 5515 (Test), 4686 (ODI), 268 (T20I)
  • Hundreds: 5 (Test), 1 (ODI)
  • Dismissals: 555 (Test), 425 (ODI), 19 (T20I)

Mark Boucher is perhaps the most prominent figure behind the stumps in modern cricket. For 15 years, he almost played every match for the Proteas and was a constant force. He had moments with the bat as well such as sealing the 434 chase against Australia in 2006.

Also Read: Top 17 Greatest Wicketkeepers in Cricket History (Men’s): Which Keepers Have the Most Dismissals Across Formats?

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13. Lance Klusener (1996-2004)

  • Role: All-Rounder (Left Handed Batter/Right Handed Medium Pacer)
  • Matches: 49 (Test), 171 (ODI)
  • Runs: 1906 (Test), 3576 (ODI)
  • Hundreds: 4 (Test), 2 (ODI)
  • Wickets: 80 (Test), 192 (ODI)
  • 5-fers: 1 (Test), 6 (ODI)

If you look purely from career stats, Klusener might not be able to compete with the rest of South Africa’s great all-rounders. However, his 1999 World Cup heroics pushes him up. This was the closest South Africa were to a World Cup win.

281 runs at 140.5 average and 122.17 SR to go along with his 17 wickets and 4 player of the match performances. Pioneered the finisher and power hitting role in ODI cricket.

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12. Herschelle Gibbs (1996-2010)

  • Role: Batter
  • Matches: 90 (Test), 248 (ODI), 23 (T20I)
  • Runs: 6167 (Test), 8094 (ODI), 400 (T20I)
  • Hundreds: 14 (Test), 21 (ODI)

Herschelle Gibbs was quite the character. The dynamic between the strokemaker Gibbs & gritty Smith helped them become a strong partnership over the years. Gibbs had several moments of his own- The Six Sixes in the 2007 ODI World Cup, 175 in that iconic 434 chase, (oh yeah, and dropping Steve Waugh in the 1999 World Cup).

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11. Clive Rice (1969-1994)

  • Role: All-Rounder
  • Matches: 3 (ODI), 482 (FC), 479 (List A)
  • Runs: 26 (ODI), 26331 (FC), 13474 (List A)
  • Hundreds: 48 (FC), 11 (List A)
  • Wickets: 2 (ODI), 930 (FC), 517 (List A)
  • 5-fers: 23 (FC), 6 (List A)

Clive Rice, a dominant force in South African cricket during the apartheid era, showcased exceptional leadership and all-round skills, symbolizing resilience and determination, and leaving a lasting legacy as a true cricketing icon.

*played 3 ODIs in 1991 at the age of 42

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Top 10 Greatest South African Cricketers of All-Time: Undisputed Legends

Time for the Final 10!

10. Allan Donald (1991-2003)

  • Role: Fast Bowler
  • Matches: 72 (Test), 164 (ODI), 316 (FC)
  • Wickets: 330 (Test), 272 (ODI), 1216 (FC)
  • 5-fers: 20 (Test), 2 (ODI), 68 (FC)

Allan Donald took South African fast bowling to new heights. Handed off the baton to the likes of Shaun Pollock, Ntini, and provided a template for Steyn to follow. Action, pace, celebration, Donald had it all.

Also Read: Top 25 South African Fast Bowlers List (The Complete Guide) | Greatest South African Fast Bowlers of All Time (Updated 2024)

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9. Mike Procter (1967-1970)

  • Role: All-Rounder
  • Matches: 7 (Test), 401 (FC), 271 (List A)
  • Runs: 226 (Test), 21936 (FC), 6624 (List A)
  • Wickets: 41 (Test), 1417 (FC), 344 (List A)
  • 5-fers: 1 (Test), 70 (FC), 7 (List A)

According to ESPNCricinfo, Mike Procter was “probably one of the most natural talents the game has ever seen.” Set the tone for great right handed fast bowling all-rounders to come from this region of the world.

Also Read: Top 55 All-Rounders in Cricket History List (The Complete Guide) | Greatest All-Rounders of All Time (Updated 2023)

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8. Hashim Amla (2004-2019)

  • Role: Batter
  • Matches: 124 (Test), 181 (ODI), 44 (T20I)
  • Runs: 9282 (Test), 8113 (ODI), 1277 (T20I)
  • Hundreds: 28 (Test), 27 (ODI)

One of the most elegant opening batters of all-time. He had all the ingredients—Time, Placement, Finesse. Fastest to 3000, 4000, 6000, and 7000 ODI runs.

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7. Graeme Smith (2002-2014)

  • Role: Left Handed Batter
  • Matches: 117 (Test), 197 (ODI), 33 (T20I)
  • Runs: 9265 (Test), 6989 (ODI), 982 (T20I)
  • Hundreds: 27 (Test), 10 (ODI)

One of the greatest left-handed openers of all-time, certainly in the Top 3 of the 21st century. Not the prettiest stroke player, it was his grit, courage, and leadership that differentiated Smith from the rest. Playing with a broken hand, Smith earned the respect of the mighty Australians and the rest of the cricketing fraternity. His captaincy led South Africa to a new era after the match fixing crisis.

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6. Barry Richards (1964-1982)

  • Role: Batter
  • Matches: 4 (Test), 339 (FC), 233 (List A)
  • Runs: 508 (Test), 28358 (FC), 8506 (List A)
  • Hundreds: 2 (Test), 80 (FC), 16 (List A)

A cricketing genius known for his sublime batting, international cricket missed out on one of the great talents. Played only 4 Tests but showed what he could do with 2 hundred, 2 fifties, and average of 72.57. Otherwise racked up 28358 runs with the best score of 356.

*played 4 Tests in 1970

Also Read: 155 Greatest Cricketers of All Time (Men’s): Who Is the King of Cricket? (Updated 2023)

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5. Graeme Pollock (1963-1970)

  • Role: Left Handed Batter
  • Matches: 23 (Test), 262 (FC), 118 (List A)
  • Runs: 2256 (Test), 20940 (FC), 4656 (List A)
  • Hundreds: 7 (Test), 64 (FC), 12 (List A)

One of the most elegant left handers of his time, Graeme Pollock played the last of his 23 Tests at the age of 26. Scored a magnificent 274 in the same test as Richards’ 140. South Africa declared for 622/8 and won by an innings and 129 at Durban against Australia. Little did they know that this was their last international series.

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4. Shaun Pollock (1995-2008)

  • Role: All-Rounder
  • Matches: 108 (Test), 303 (ODI), 12 (T20I)
  • Runs: 3781 (Test), 3519 (ODI), 86 (T20I)
  • Hundreds: 2 (Test), 1 (ODI)
  • Wickets: 421 (Test), 393 (ODI), 15 (T20I)
  • 5-fers: 16 (Test), 5 (ODI)

Opened the bowling for over a decade and built partnerships with Donald, Ntini, and later Steyn. Solid batter down the order as well and captained South Africa to the 1998 Commonwealth Gold, still one of the only victories to their name.

Also Read: 17 South Africa World Cup Chokes and Heartbreaks: The Complete List (Men’s & Women’s Combined)

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3. AB De Villiers (2004-2018)

  • Role: Batter/Wicket-Keeper
  • Matches: 114 (Test), 228 (ODI), 78 (T20I)
  • Runs: 8765 (Test), 9577 (ODI), 1672 (T20I)
  • Hundreds: 22 (Test), 25 (ODI)

The most versatile batter of the modern age. He had the technical abilities to score 33 (220) and 43 (297) and the destructiveness to score the fastest hundred. One of the original stars of the IPL. Unfortunate to not lift a World Cup and retired from international cricket during his prime.

Also Read: Top 11 Cricketers Who Retired Too Early – The Lost Generation

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2. Dale Steyn (2004-2020)

  • Role: Fast Bowler
  • Matches: 93 (Test), 125 (ODI), 47 (T20I)
  • Wickets: 439 (Test), 196 (ODI), 64 (T20I)
  • 5-fers: 26 (Test), 3 (ODI)

The most prolific South African Test fast bowler and arguably the best fast bowler of all-time. He had the perfect action, the rhythm, the speed, and that iconic celebration. The heart of the South African Test team that won around the world between 2008-2015. Freak injuries curtailed his career but his passion came through with multiple comeback attempts.

Also Read: Dale Steyn, The Embodiment of Simplicity and Intensity, Retires—The Greatest Fast Bowler of Them All

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1. Jacques Kallis (1995-2014)

  • Role: All-Rounder
  • Matches: 166 (Test), 328 (ODI), 25 (T20I)
  • Runs: 13289 (Test), 11579 (ODI), 666 (T20I)
  • Hundreds: 45 (Test), 17 (ODI)
  • Wickets: 292 (Test), 273 (ODI), 12 (T20I)

Simply the Greatest. Jacques Kallis is a name synonymous with consistency, hardwork, and discipline. His batting numbers themselves push him into legendary status but it was his fast bowling that provided South Africa the balance they needed.

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Honorable Mentions: List of Players that were considered

Honorable Mentions: Ken McEwan, Albie Morkel, Paul Adams, Cyril Vincent, Anrich Nortje, Vincent van der Bilj, Herbert Taylor, Alan Courie, Basil D’Oliviera, Frank Roro, Eric Petersen, Hylton Ackerman Sr, Henry Fotheringham, Ken McEwan, Stephen Jefferies, Denys Hobson, Ray Jennings, Jock Cameron, Denis Lindsay, Dave Richardson, Jimmy Sinclair, Herbie Taylor, Jackie McGlew, Temba Bavuma, Neil McKenzie, Ashwell Prince, Chris Morris, Wayne Parnell, Charl Langeveldt, Keshav Maharaj, Andre Nel, David Richardson, Nicky Boje

Future Stars: Tristan Stubbs, Tabriz Shams, Lungi Ngidi, Heinrich Klaasen, Aiden Markram

Note: “Frank Roro is widely considered the first great black African cricketer” according to ESPNCricinfo although he did not play international cricket.

List of South African Players in World Cup Squads

One key aspect of picking South Africa’s greats was looking at their tournament history and squads.

South Africa won the 1998 Commonwealth Games, 1998 Champions Trophy, and the ICC Test Mace (2013-2015). They were also semi-finalists in the 1992, 1999, 2007, 2015, and 2023 ODI World Cups along with the 2009 & 2014 T20 World Cups.

Here are the complete squads of those tournaments (except for the Test mace).

1998 Champion Squads

  • 1998 Champions Trophy: Hansie Cronje (C), Mark Boucher (WK), Dale Benkenstein, Nicky Boje, Derek Crookes, Daryll Cullinan, Alan Dawson, Steve Elworthy, Jacques Kallis, Gary Kirsten, Makhaya Ntini, Shaun Pollock, Jonty Rhodes, Pat Symcox
  • 1998 Commonwealth Games: Shaun Pollock (C), Mark Boucher (WK), Alan Dawson, Andrew Hudson, Dale Benkenstein, Derek Crookes, Henry Williams, Herschelle Gibbs, Jacques Kallis, Makhaya Ntini, Michael Rindel, Nicky Boje, Paul Adams, Steve Elworthy

ODI World Cups

  • 1992 ODI CWC: Kepler Wessels (C), David Richardson (WK), Tertius Bosch, Hansie Cronje, Allan Donald, Omar Henry, Andrew Hudson, Peter Kirsten, Adrian Kuiper, Brian McMillan, Meyrick Pringle, Jonny Rhodes, Mark Rushmere, Richard Snell
  • 1999 ODI CWC: Hansie Cronje (C), Mark Boucher (WK), Gary Kirsten, Herschelle Gibbs, Jacques Kallis, Daryll Cullinan, Dale Benkenstein, Shaun Pollock, Jonty Rhodes, Allan Donald, Derek Crookes, Alan Dawson, Lance Klusser, Steve Elworthy, Nicky Boje
  • 2007 ODI CWC: Graeme Smith (C), Mark Boucher (WK), AB de Villiers (WK), Loots Bosman, Herschelle Gibbs, Andrew Hall, Jacques Kallis, Justin Kemp, Charl Langeveldt, Andre Nel, Makhaya Ntini, Robin Peterson, Shaun Pollock, Ashwell Prince, Roger Telemachus
  • 2015 ODI CWC: AB de Villiers (C), Quinton de Kock (WK), Hashim Amla, Kyle Abbott, Farhaan Behardien, Faf du Plessis, JP Duminy, David Miller, Morne Morkel, Wayne Parnell, Aaron Phangiso, Vernon Philander, Rilee Rossouw, Dale Steyn, Imran Tahir
  • 2023 ODI CWC: Temba Bavuma (C), Quinton de Kock (WK), Heinrich Klaasen (WK), Keshav Maharaj, Gerald Coetzee, Reeza Hendricks, Marco Jansen, Aiden Markram, David Miller, Andel Phehlukwayo, Kagiso Rabada, Tabraiz Shamsi, Lizaad Williams, Rassie van der Dussen, Sisanda Magala*, Anrich Nortje*

*replaced due to injury

T20 World Cups

  • 2009 T20 WC: Graeme Smith (C), Mark Boucher (WK), Yusuf Abdulla, Johan Botha, AB de Villiers, JP Duminy, Herschelle Gibbs, Jacques Kallis, Albie Morkel, Morne Morkel, Justin Ontong, Wayne Parnell, Robin Peterson, Dale Steyn, Roelof van der Merwe
  • 2014 T20 WC: Faf du Plessis (C), Quinton de Kock (WK), Hashim Amla, Farhaan Behardien, AB de Villiers, JP Duminy, Beuran Hendricks, Imran Tahir, David Miller, Albie Morkel, Morne Morkel, Wayne Parnell, Aaron Phangiso, Dale Steyn, Lonwabo Tsotsobe

Final Thoughts

The rich tapestry of South African cricket is woven with the extraordinary contributions of countless remarkable players spanning different eras.

From the pioneering feats of Jimmy Sinclair and Herbie Taylor to the modern-day brilliance of stars like AB De Villiers and Dale Steyn, each player has left an indelible mark on the sport, shaping its history and inspiring generations.

Through their skill, resilience, and unwavering passion, these cricketing icons have not only entertained fans but also united a nation, showcasing the transformative power of sport in South Africa and beyond.

Who were your favorite players? Comment below.

You May Also Like: Top 50 Greatest West Indies Cricketers of All Time: The Complete List (2023), List of 62 South African Born Cricketers Who Represented Other Nations: How Many South African Cricketers played for Australia, England, and New Zealand?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Greatest South African Cricketers of All-Time

Who are the greatest South African cricketers of All-Time?

Jacques Kallis, Dale Steyn, AB De Villiers, Greame Pollock, Barry Richards, Graeme Smith, Hashim Amla, Mike Procter, and Allan Donald were judged as the Top 10 Greatest South African Cricketers of All-Time. Greatest South African Cricketers of All Time: (From left to right) Allan Donald, Hashim Amla, Barry Richards, Shaun Pollock, AB de Villiers, Jacques Kallis, Dale Steyn, Graeme Pollock, Graeme Smith, Mike Procter

Which cricket talent did South Africa lose out during their international cricket isolation due to apartheid?

Some great players like Graeme Pollock, Barry Richards, Mike Procter, Clive Rice, Eddie Barlow, Jimmy Cook, Kepler Wessels, Peter Kirsten, David Richardson, Garth le Roux, Vincent van der Bijl, and Ken McEwan lost out on some or all of their careers in the isolation era. Greatest South African Cricketers of All Time: (From left to right) Allan Donald, Hashim Amla, Barry Richards, Shaun Pollock, AB de Villiers, Jacques Kallis, Dale Steyn, Graeme Pollock, Graeme Smith, Mike Procter

Sources: ESPN Cricinfo’s All-Time XIs South Africa Edition

© Copyright @Nitesh Mathur and Broken Cricket Dreams, LLC 2023. Originally published on 02/18/2024. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Broken Cricket Dreams with appropriate and specific direction to the original content (i.e. linked to the exact post/article).

Top 55 All-Rounders in Cricket History List (The Complete Guide) | Greatest All-Rounders of All Time (Updated 2023)

Today, we rank the greatest all-rounders in cricket history across formats and generations.

The importance of all-rounders can never be underestimated. Just look at Australia—Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Marsh, and Marcus Stoinis helped them win the 2023 ODI World Cup…yet again.

Recently, Ben Stokes joined the illustrious duo of Garfield Sobers & Jacques Kallis with 6000+ Test runs, 100+ wickets, and 100+ catches.

With some of the modern-day all-rounders in the mix, who are the greatest all-rounders in cricket history?

Key Takeaways

  • Jacques Kallis, Sir Garfield Sobers, Shakib Al Hasan, Kapil Dev, Sir Ian Botham, Imran Khan, Keith Miller, Richie Benaud, Mike Procter, Sir Richard Hadlee, Andrew Flintoff, Shaun Pollock, Daniel Vettori, Sanath Jayasuriya, Wilfred Rhodes, Frank Woolley, Aubrey Faulkner, Clive Rice, and George Hirst have been judged as the Top 20 greatest all-rounders in cricket history.
  • India (10), England (9), South Africa (9), Pakistan (7), Australia (7), West Indies (4), New Zealand (3), Zimbabwe (2), Sri Lanka (2), Netherlands (1), and Bangladesh (1) make up our list of the Top 55 all-rounders of all-time.

Also Read:

By the Numbers: Greatest All-Rounders in Cricket History Across Formats

Here is a list of cricketers with more than 5000 runs and 200 wickets across formats in Test, ODI, and T20I cricket combined.

The results are sorted by most wickets.

PlayerRunsWickets
Wasim Akram6615916
Shaun Pollock7386829
Chaminda Vaas5147761
Daniel Vettori6989705
Shakib Al Hasan14406690
Kapil Dev9031687
Jacques Kallis25534577
Ravindra Jadeja6017546
Imran Khan7516544
Shahid Afridi11196541
Ian Botham7313528
Sanath Jayasuriya21032440
Chris Cairns8273420
Andrew Flintoff7315400
Abdul Razzaq7419389
Jason Holder5441373
Dwayne Bravo6423363
Moeen Ali6558358
Carl Hooper11523307
Ben Stokes10165297
Shane Watson10950291
Steve Waugh18496287
Ravi Shastri6938280
Lance Klusener5482272
Chris Gayle19593260
Mohammad Nabi5066257
Mohammad Hafeez12780253
Gary Sobers8032236
Chris Harris5156219
Shoaib Malik11867218
Sachin Tendulkar34357201

First-Class Cricket All-Round Records

We also consider first-class cricket records, especially for players who played before the 1960s and South African legends who were barred from playing international cricket for over two decades.

This list contains players who have scored over 20,000 first class runs and taken over 2000 wickets.

  1. Wilfred Rhodes – 39969 runs, 4204 wickets
  2. Fred Titmus – 21588 runs, 2830 wickets
  3. WG Grace – 54211 runs, 2809 wickets
  4. Maurice Tate – 21717 runs, 2784 wickets
  5. George Hirst – 36356 runs, 2742 wickets
  6. Ewart Astill – 22735 runs, 2432 wickets
  7. Trevor Bailey – 28641 runs, 2082 wickets
  8. Ray Illingworth – 24134 runs, 2072 wickets
  9. Frank Woolley – 58959 runs, 2066 wickets

List of the Greatest Cricket All Rounders of All-Time (RANKED)

Over a 100 cricketers were considered for this list.

Impact in Tests, World Cups, quality of opposition & era, impact as a match-winner for a team, first-class statistics, anecdotes (especially for earlier eras), performance in different formats (if applicable), and achievements/awards were all used to determine these rankings. Some of these were very close (and hence, may have a tinge of subjectiveness).

Honorable Mentions: Carl Hooper, Mohammad Hafeez, Bart King, Chaminda Vaas, Trevor Bailey, Wally Hammond, Polly Umrigar, WG Grace, Aravinda de Silva, Sir Vivian Richards, Steve Waugh, Thomas Odoyo, Neil Johnson, Angelo Mathews, Chris Harris, Jacob Oram, Kieron Pollard, Glenn Maxwell, Hardik Pandya, Mudassar Nazar, Learie Constantine, Jack Gregory, Maurice Tate, Hugh Trumble, Jason Holder, Johnny Briggs, George Giffen, Billy Barnes, Billy Bates, Hansie Cronje, Andy Bichel, Greg Chappell, Chris Old, Mohammad Nabi, Chris Gayle, Frank Worrell, Sean Williams, Mike Watkinson, Vernon Philander, JP Duminy, Sachin Tendulkar, Roelof van der Merwe, Kevin O’Brien, David Hussey, Scott Styris, Elton Chigumbura, Shane Warne, Anil Kumble, Ajit Agarkar, Tim Southee

Let’s begin.

55. Sunil Narine (West Indies, 2011-)

A late bloomer as an all-rounder. Mainly a mystery spinner that reinvented the role of the pinch hitter later in his T20 cricket. One of the pioneers of T20 cricket.

Sunil Narine All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 6 (Tests), 65 (ODIs), 51 (T20Is), 483 (T20s)
  • Runs: 40 (Tests), 363 (ODIs), 155 (T20Is), 3692 (T20s)
  • Wickets: 21 (Tests), 92 (ODIs), 52 (T20Is), 525 (T20s)
Sunil Narine Achievements
  • Completed the double of 3500 T20 runs and 500 wickets
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54. Yuvraj Singh (India, 2000-2017)

Yuvraj Singh, a pivotal figure in Indian cricket during the 2000s, significantly impacted the game as an all-rounder with his aggressive batting, useful slow left-arm orthodox bowling, and exceptional fielding skills. He was instrumental in India’s 2007 T20 and 2011 ODI World Cup victories and is celebrated for his ability to change the course of a match single-handedly, leaving a lasting legacy. Provided India the balance they needed.

Yuvraj Singh All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 40 (Tests), 304 (ODIs), 58 (T20Is)
  • Runs: 1900 (Tests), 8701 (ODIs), 1177 (T20Is)
  • Wickets: 9 (Tests), 111 (ODIs), 28 (T20Is)
Yuvraj Singh Achievements
  • Arjuna Award: Received in 2012 for his outstanding contributions to cricket.
  • Padma Shri: Awarded in 2014, one of the highest civilian honors in India.
  • Instrumental in India’s 2007 ICC World Twenty20 and 2011 Cricket World Cup victories, winning the Player of the Tournament in both events.
  • Achieved the historic feat of hitting six consecutive sixes in an over during the 2007 World Twenty20.
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53. Dattu Phadkar (India, 1947-1959)

Dattu Phadkar was an all-rounder that takes you back to the golden era of Indian cricket in the 1940s and 1950s.

All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 133 (FC), 31 (Tests)
  • Runs: 5377 (FC), 1229 (Tests)
  • Wickets: 466 (FC), 62 (Tests)
Achievements
  • Scored 8 hundreds in first-class cricket to go along with his 31 5-fers.

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52. Andre Russell (West Indies, 2010-2021)

Russell’s impact as an all-rounder is characterized by his explosive power-hitting, accurate yorkers at the death, and instrumental contributions to T20 franchises globally, establishing him as a dynamic force in limited-overs cricket.

Andre Russell All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 56 (ODIs), 67 (T20Is), 461 (T20s)
  • Runs: 1034 (ODIs), 741 (T20Is), 7694 (T20s)
  • Wickets: 70 (ODIs), 39 (T20Is), 408 (T20s)
Andre Russell Achievements
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51. Sikandar Raza (Zimbabwe, 2013-)

The heart and soul of Zimbabwe. His purple patch after Zimbabwe’s snub in the 2019 ODI World Cup has been heartening to see. A true matchwinner for Zimbabwe.

Sikandar Raza All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 17 (Tests), 136 (ODIs), 78 (T20Is), 201 (T20s)
  • Runs: 1187 (Tests), 4089 (ODIs), 1774 (T20Is), 4141 (T20s)
  • Wickets: 34 (Tests), 85 (ODIs), 55 (T20Is), 114 (T20s)
Sikandar Raza Achievements
  • Raza has already won 9 player of the match awards in T20Is alone in 2023, the most by any cricketer this year.
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50. Ryan Ten Doeschate (Netherlands, 2006-2021)

Ryan ten Doeschate’s impact as a Dutch all-rounder is distinguished by his rare achievement of 1,000 runs and 50 wickets in ODIs, coupled with his exemplary leadership, making him a key figure in the Netherlands’ cricketing success. Oh yeah, and don’t forget his ODI average of 67.00.

Ryan Ten Doeschate All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 203 (FC), 33 (ODIs), 24 (T20Is), 382 (T20s)
  • Runs: 11298 (FC), 1541 (ODIs), 533 (T20Is), 7597 (T20s)
  • Wickets: 214 (FC), 55 (ODIs), 13 (T20Is), 114 (T20s)
Ryan Ten Doeschate Achievements
  • ICC Associate & Affiliate Player (3 times)
  • Achieved the milestone of 1,000 runs and 50 wickets in One Day Internationals.

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49. Mohinder Amarnath (India, 1969-1989)

Amarnath’s impact as an Indian all-rounder is immortalized by his crucial role in the historic 1983 World Cup triumph and his valuable contributions to Indian cricket.

Mohinder Amarnath All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 248 (FC), 69 (Tests), 85 (ODIs)
  • Runs: 13747 (FC), 4378 (Tests), 1924 (ODIs)
  • Wickets: 277 (FC), 32 (Tests), 46 (ODIs)
Mohinder Amarnath Achievements
  • Won the C.K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award in 2009
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48. Irfan Pathan (India, 2003-2012)

Even though it was only for a short period of time, India finally had an all-rounder worthy of creating Kapil Dev’s impact. Hat-trick, batting at #3, the yorker to Adam Gilchrist, the banana swing, and the ability to adapt—he had it all. Unfortunately, injuries, drop in pace, and change in action meant he was never the same again.

Irfan Pathan All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 29 (Tests), 120 (ODIs), 24 (T20Is)
  • Runs: 1105 (Tests), 1544 (ODIs), 172 (T20Is)
  • Wickets: 100 (Tests), 173 (ODIs), 28 (T20Is)
Irfan Pathan Achievements
  • Achieved the historic feat of a hat-trick in the first over of a Test match against Pakistan in 2006.
  • Played a crucial role in India’s victory in the inaugural ICC World Twenty20 in 2007
  • Part of the Indian team that won the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in 2003-04, playing a vital role with both bat and ball.
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47. Tillakaratne Dilshan (Sri Lanka, 1999-2016)

Inventor of the Dilscoop, Dilshan was the spark that energized the golden generation of Sri Lanka between 2007 & 2015. Completely turned his career around when he was promoted as an opener. Handy off-spinner and the heart & soul of Sri Lanka’s fielding efforts.

Tillakaratne Dilshan All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 87 (Tests), 330 (ODIs), 80 (T20Is), 221 (T20s)
  • Runs: 5492 (Tests), 10290 (ODIs), 1889 (T20Is), 5193 (T20s)
  • Wickets: 39 (Tests), 106 (ODIs), 9 (T20Is), 64 (T20s)
Tillakaratne Dilshan Achievements
  • Achieved the milestone of 10,000 runs and 100 wickets in ODIs
  • Player of the Tournament in the 2009 T20 World Cup

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46. Ravichandran Ashwin (India, 2010-)

Ravichandran Ashwin – what a game changer he has been! Not just any off-spinner, he’s hit a remarkable milestone – quickest Indian bowler to take 450 Test wickets. But there’s more to Ashwin than his lethal spin. He steps up with the bat too, scoring Test centuries when it matters most. And guess what? He’s taking us behind the scenes on his YouTube channel, offering a fresh, personal view of cricket.

Ravichandran Ashwin All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 94 (Tests), 116 (ODIs), 65 (T20Is)
  • Runs: 3185 (Tests), 707 (ODIs), 184 (T20Is)
  • Wickets: 489 (Test), 156 (ODIs), 72 (T20Is)
Ravichandran Ashwin Achievements
  • Achieved the milestone of 400 Test wickets
  • ICC Cricketer of the Year (2016)
  • Has scored 5 Test Centuries
  • Ranked #1 ICC Test all-rounders (2013, 2015, 2016)
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45. Andrew Symonds (Australia, 1998-2009)

One of the most destructive all-round ODI players of all-time. The cog in the Australia machine that made them ruthless. Cricket has lost a great soul.

Andrew Symonds All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 26 (Tests), 198 (ODIs), 14 (T20Is), 93 (T20s)
  • Runs: 1462 (Tests), 5088 (ODIs), 337 (T20Is), 2141 (T20s)
  • Wickets: 24 (Tests), 133 (ODIs), 8 (T20Is), 52 (T20s)
Andrew Symonds Achievements
  • Known for his aggressive batting style and off-spin bowling, he achieved the rare milestone of 5,000 runs and 100 wickets in ODIs.
  • Holder of the fastest T20 century for almost a decade (34-ball hundred in 2004).
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44. Shoaib Malik (Pakistan, 1999-2021)

An all-rounder that aged like fine wine. With the advent of T20 cricket, his value as an all-rounder increased. Could steady an ODI innings, slow down the runs as an off-spinners, and finish it off with a few big sixes.

Shoaib Malik All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 35 (Tests), 287 (ODIs), 124 (T20Is), 524 (T20s)
  • Runs: 1898 (Tests), 7534 (ODIs), 2435 (T20Is), 12929 (T20s)
  • Wickets: 32 (Tests), 158 (ODIs), 28 (T20Is), 177 (T20s)
Shoaib Malik Achievements
  • Played a key role in Pakistan’s 2009 T20 World Cup
  • Completed the double of 7000 ODI runs & 150 wickets
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43. Lala Amarnath (India, 1933-1952)

The senior Amarnath. A pioneer of Indian cricket, Lala Amarnath was the first Indian cricketer to score a Test century, and one of India’s early captains.

Lala Amarnath All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 186 (FC), 24 (Tests)
  • Runs: 10426 (FC), 878 (Tests)
  • Wickets: 463 (FC), 45 (Tests)
Lala Amarnath Achievements
  • Part of the historic Indian team that won its first Test series in 1952, laying the foundation for future successes.
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42. Trevor Goddard (South Africa, 1955-1970)

Goddard’s impact as a South African all-rounder is highlighted by his contributions to the team’s early successes and his legacy as a pioneering figure in South African cricket.

Trevor Goddard All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 179 (FC), 41 (Tests)
  • Runs: 11289 (FC), 2516 (Tests)
  • Wickets: 534 (FC), 123 (Tests)
Trevor Goddard Achievements
  • Achieved the notable all-rounder milestone of 2500 runs and 100 wickets in Test cricket.
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41. Heath Streak (Zimbabwe, 1993-2005)

One of the great icons of Zimbabwe’s golden generations. 455 international wickets and 4000 international runs, he provided fans with some great memories.

Heath Streak All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 175 (FC), 65 (Tests), 190 (ODIs)
  • Runs: 5684 (FC), 2943 (Tests), 1990 (ODIs)
  • Wickets: 499 (FC), 216 (Tests), 239 (ODIs)
Heath Streak Achievements
  • Completed the double of 2500 Test runs and 200 wickets.
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40. Bill Eldrich (England, 1939-1955)

36965 first class runs. 479 wickets. 527 catches. If that is not an all-rounder, I just don’t know what is.

Bill Eldrich All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 571 (FC), 39 (Tests)
  • Runs: 36965 (FC), 2440 (Tests)
  • Wickets: 479 (FC), 41 (Tests)
Bill Eldrich Achievements
  • Opened the batting and bowling in the same match
  • Scored 86 hundreds and 197 fifties
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39. Warwick Armstrong (Australia, 1902-1921)

An Australian cricketer and one of the greatest all-rounders of the early 20th century, Warwick Armstrong left an enduring legacy in the sport.

Warwick Armstrong All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 269 (FC), 50 (Tests)
  • Runs: 16158 (FC), 2863 (Tests)
  • Wickets: 832 (FC), 87 (Tests)
Warwick Armstrong Achievements
  • Led Australia to eight victories against England
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38. Ravi Shastri (India, 1981-1992)

A larger-than-life character. Shastri’s impact as an Indian all-rounder is characterized by his contributions to team victories, leadership roles, commentary spells, and his continued influence in Indian cricket as a coach and administrator.

Ravi Shastri All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 245 (FC), 80 (Tests), 150 (ODIs)
  • Runs: 13202 (FC), 3830 (Tests), 3108 (ODIs)
  • Wickets: 509 (FC), 151 (Tests), 129 (ODIs)
Ravi Shastri Achievements
  • Completed the double of 6500 runs and 275 wickets
  • Averaged 77.75 against Australia
  • Key contributor in India’s World Championship of Cricket win in 1985
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37. Wasim Raja (Pakistan, 1973-1985)

Raja’s impact as a Pakistani cricketer is remembered for his stylish batting, contributions to team successes, and his influence on the field during an era of competitive cricket.

Wasim Raja All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 250 (FC), 57 (Tests), 54 (ODIs)
  • Runs: 11434 (FC), 2821 (Tests), 782 (ODIs)
  • Wickets: 558 (FC), 51 (Tests), 21 (ODIs)
Wasim Raja Achievements
  • Completed the double of 2500 Test runs & 50 wickets
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36. Lance Klusener (South Africa, 1996-2004)

Lance Klusener, that South African cricket dynamo of the late 90s and early 2000s, was an absolute game-changer. His left-handed batting? Ferocious. His right-arm fast-medium bowling? Terrifyingly accurate. And his game sense? Ice cool under pressure. Remember the ’99 World Cup? Klusener owned it, bagging the Player of the Tournament with a jaw-dropping average of 140.50 runs and snagging 17 wickets to boot. Not to mention his one-day magic: over 3500 runs at a solid average of 41.10, and 192 wickets. Now that’s what I call redefining the all-rounder role!

Lance Klusener All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 49 (Tests), 171 (ODIs), 53 (T20s)
  • Runs: 1906 (Tests), 3576 (ODIs), 1014 (T20s)
  • Wickets: 80 (Tests), 171 (ODIs), 29 (T20s)
Lance Klusener Achievements
  • Named Player of the Tournament in the 1999 Cricket World Cup, showcasing his exceptional performances and impact on the global stage.
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35. Abdul Razzaq (Pakistan, 1996-2013)

Despite never quite reaching the heights of the great Imran Khan, Razzaq remains etched in Pakistan fans’ memories as one of the most effective and versatile players. A pioneer in lower-order power hitting, Razzaq & Afridi provided the balance and flexibility to the great Pakistan generation of the 90s.

Abdul Razzaq All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 46 (Tests), 265 (ODIs), 32 (T20Is), 142 (T20s)
  • Runs: 1946 (Tests), 5080 (ODIs), 393 (T20Is), 2578 (T20s)
  • Wickets: 100 (Tests), 269 (ODIs), 20 (T20Is), 135 (T20s)
Abdul Razzaq Achievements
  • Completed the double of 5000 Runs and 250 Wickets in ODI Cricket

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34. Chris Cairns (New Zealand, 1989-2006)

With over 8000 international runs and 400 wickets, Chris Cairns is undoubtedly one of New Zealand’s greatest all-rounders. Among a team of dibbly dobblers, Cairns actually had some pace in him. A big hitter down the order as well.

Chris Cairns All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 217 (FC), 62 (Tests), 215 (ODIs)
  • Runs: 10702 (FC), 3320 (Tests), 4950 (ODIs)
  • Wickets: 647 (FC), 218 (Tests), 201 (ODIs)
Chris Cairns Achievements
  • Part of the New Zealand team that reached the semi-finals of the ICC Cricket World Cup in 1999, showcasing his impact in limited-overs cricket.
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33. Mushtaq Mohammad (Pakistan, 1959-1979)

In the illustrious line of the Mohammad brothers (think Hanif), Mushtaq boasted the most first-class centuries (72) and most wickets (936).

Mushtaq Mohammad All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 502 (FC), 57 (Tests), 10 (ODIs)
  • Runs: 31091 (FC), 3643 (Tests), 209 (ODIs)
  • Wickets: 936 (FC), 79 (Tests), 0 (ODIs)
Mushtaq Mohammad Achievements
  • Achieved the milestone of 3,000 runs and 70 wickets in Test cricket
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32. Ravindra Jadeja (India, 2009-)

Ravindra Jadeja, a versatile all-rounder who rose to prominence during the 2010s, significantly influenced Indian cricket with his exceptional left-arm spin bowling, reliable lower-order batting, and electric fielding; he has consistently delivered match-winning performances. Also has three first-class triple hundreds. A true modern-day all-rounder.

Ravindra Jadeja All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 67 (Tests), 197 (ODIs), 64 (T20Is)
  • Runs: 2804 (Tests), 2756 (ODIs), 457 (T20Is)
  • Wickets: 275 (Tests), 220 (ODIs), 51 (T20Is)
Ravindra Jadeja Achievements
  • 2000 Test Runs and 200 Wickets
  • Awarded Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna in 2020
  • #1 ICC Test all-rounder (2022)
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31. Vinoo Mankad (India, 1946-1959)

Before the Ravindra Jadejas & Axar Patels, there was another left arm spin Indian all-rounder. You may have heard of his name for the infamous dismissal, but Vinoo Makad was much more. He would open the batting and bowling in the same innings, would score two double hundreds in the same series, took up captaincy duties, and would take eight wickets in a Test innings twice in his career!

Vinoo Mankad All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 233 (FC), 44 (Tests)
  • Runs: 11591 (FC), 2109 (Tests)
  • Wickets: 782 (FC), 162 (Tests)
Vinoo Mankad Achievements
  • First Indian to complete the double of 100 Test wickets & 1000 Test Runs
  • Set the then world-record opening partnership of 413 runs with Pankaj Roy in 1956.
  • Wisden Cricketer of the Year (1947)
  • Inducted in ICC Cricket Hall of Fame
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30. Monty Noble (Australia, 1898-1909)

At the turn of the 20th century, Monty Noble was an Australian legend who commanded the pitch with his right-hand batting and medium pace bowling, earned him recognition as one of the most complete players of his era. His exceptional ability was evident in every aspect of the game – not to mention his distinguished captaincy, which solidified his status as one of the greatest all-round cricketers ever produced by Australia.

Monty Noble All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 248 (FC), 42 (Tests)
  • Runs: 13975 (FC), 1997 (Tests)
  • Wickets: 624 (FC), 121 (Tests)
Monty Noble Achievements
  • Inducted into the Australian Cricket Hall of Fame for his significant contributions to the sport.
  • 1000 Runs and 100 Wickets in Test Cricket
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29. Dwayne Bravo (West Indies, 2004-)

Dwayne Bravo, a charismatic all-rounder who dominated the 2010s, revolutionized cricket with his powerful hitting, agile fielding, and captivating leadership. He made significant contributions to T20 cricket with the most wickets of all-time, over 2000 Test runs, 2900 ODI runs – thereby cementing his legacy as one of the game’s early T20 legends and a “trailblazer” of his era.

Dwayne Bravo All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 40 (Tests), 164 (ODIs), 91 (T20Is), 564 (T20s)
  • Runs: 2200 (Tests), 2968 (ODIs), 1255 (T20Is), 6905 (T20s)
  • Wickets: 86 (Tests), 199 (ODIs), 78 (T20Is), 619 (T20s)
Dwayne Bravo Achievements
  • Winning member of two T20 World Cup winning squads
  • Winning member of the 2004 Champions Trophy
  • Highest wicket taker in the 2013 & 2015 IPL, 2015 & 2016 CPL, and 2017-18 BBL.
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28. Wasim Akram (Pakistan, 1984-2003)

In the cricket-packed era of the 90s and early 2000s, Wasim Akram was a game-changer from Pakistan who not only stunned opponents with his incredible left-hand bowling, but also made history by taking 500 wickets in the one-day format. He has four hat-tricks in international cricket to his name and set standards that redefined the role of a left arm fast bowler in the sport. Also scored a 257* in Tests!

Wasim Akram All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 104 (Tests), 356 (ODIs)
  • Runs: 2898 (Tests), 3717 (ODIs)
  • Wickets: 414 (Tests), 502 (ODIs)
Wasim Akram Achievements
  • Achieved the rare all-rounder milestone of 3,000 runs and 500 wickets in One Day Internationals.
  • Instrumental in Pakistan’s victory in the 1992 Cricket World Cup, earning him the Man of the Match award in the final.
  • Wisden Cricketer of the Year: 1993
  • Member of the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame
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27. Brian McMillan (South Africa, 1991-1998)

Among the most prominent allrounders after South Africa’s readmission. According to ESPNCricinfo, McMillan was “rated by many as the best allrounder in the world in the mid-1990s.”

Brian McMillian All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 155 (FC), 38 (Tests), 78 (ODIs)
  • Runs: 7898 (FC), 1968 (Tests), 841 (ODIs)
  • Wickets: 310 (FC), 75 (Tests), 70 (ODIs)
Brian McMillan Achievements
  • Achieved the all-rounder milestone of 1000 runs and 75 wickets in Test cricket.
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26. Alan Davidson (Australia, 1953-1963)

First person to score a hundred and take a 10-fer in a Test.

Alan Davidson All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 193 (FC), 44 (Tests)
  • Runs: 6804 (FC), 1328 (Tests)
  • Wickets: 672 (FC), 186 (Tests)
Alan Davidson Achievements
  • Scored four hundreds and took 72 wickets against South Africa in the 1957-58 tour
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25. Eddie Barlow (South Africa, 1961-1970)

Known for his aggressive batting, medium-fast bowling, and exceptional fielding, Barlow played a key role in South Africa’s cricketing endeavors.

Eddie Barlow All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 283 (FC), 30 (Tests)
  • Runs: 18212 (FC), 2516 (Tests)
  • Wickets: 571 (FC), 40 (Tests)
Eddie Barlow Achievements
  • Scored 43 hundreds, 86 fifties, and took 335 catches
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24. Tony Greig (England, 1965-1978)

Apart from being known as one of the voices of cricket, Tony Greig also had an illustrious career as an all-rounder for England. 3599 Test & 16,660 FC runs, 141 Test & 856 FC wickets, and captaincy to top it off.

Tony Greig All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 350 (FC), 58 (Tests), 22 (ODIs)
  • Runs: 16,660 (FC), 3599 (Tests), 269 (ODIs)
  • Wickets: 856 (FC), 141 (Tests), 19 (ODIs)
Tony Greig Achievements
  • Awarded the Wisden Cricketer of the Year in 1975 for his outstanding performances on the field.
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23. Ben Stokes (England, 2011-)

Ben Stokes, the explosive all-rounder from England, is more than just stats and records. With his audacious batting style, airborne catches, dynamite bowling arm, and a mind of steel, he has redefined cricket – his mental strength shone when he led England to triumph in the Ashes Headingly heist, the 2019 World Cup final, and again in the 2022 T20 World Cup, proving that when the pressure is on, Stokes is the man you want at the crease. Unfortunately, it was not meant to be after he un-retired from ODI cricket for the final hurrah in what turned to be a disappointing 2023 ODI World Cup in India.

Ben Stokes All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 97 (Tests), 114 (ODIs), 43 (T20Is)
  • Runs: 6117 (Tests), 3463 (ODIs), 585 (T20Is)
  • Wickets: 197 (Tests), 74 (ODIs), 26 (T20Is)
Ben Stokes Achievements
  • Wisden Leading Cricketer in the World: 2019
  • BBC Sports Personality of the Year: 2019
  • 2019 World Cup player of the final
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22. Shane Watson (Australia, 2002-2016)

In the dynamic era of 2000s and early 2010s cricket, Shane Watson was a tour de force for Australia, combining his explosive right-handed batting. Add to that, his reliable medium pace bowling that helped him take over 150 wickets, earning him the distinction of being one of the most successful all-rounders in international cricket, particularly in limited overs. His key achievements include winning the ‘Most Valuable Player’ in several crucial tournaments like the 2007 & 2015 ODI World Cup, 2009 Champions Trophy, the IPL, and 2012 World T20. A template for an ideal modern-day T20 all-rounder.

Shane Watson All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 59 (Tests), 190 (ODIs), 58 (T20Is)
  • Runs: 3731 (Tests), 5757 (ODIs), 1462 (T20Is)
  • Wickets: 75 (Tests), 168 (ODIs), 48 (T20Is)
Shane Watson Achievements
  • Allan Border Medal: Won in 2010 and 2011 for outstanding performances in Australian cricket.
  • ICC Player of the Year Recipient (2010)
  • Achieved the rare feat of scoring over 10,000 runs and over 250 wickets in international cricket.
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21. Ray Illingworth (England, 1958-1973)

24134 first class runs. 2072 wickets. Now those are some numbers.

Ray Illingworth All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 787 (FC), 61 (Tests)
  • Runs: 24134 (FC), 1836 (Tests)
  • Wickets: 2072 (FC), 122 (Tests)
Ray Illingworth Achievements
  • Led England to an Ashes win in 1970-71
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20. George Hirst (England, 1897-1909)

An English all-rounder, George Hirst was one of the leading cricketers during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

George Hirst All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 826 (FC), 24 (Tests)
  • Runs: 36356 (FC), 790 (Tests)
  • Wickets: 2742 (FC), 59 (Tests)
George Hirst Achievements
  • 36000 first class runs, 2700 wickets, 60 hundreds, 201 fifties, 605 catches, 184 5-fers, and 40 10-fers
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19. Aubrey Faulkner (South Africa, 1906-1924)

Generally regarded as one of the greatest all-rounders of all-time and certainly the greatest international all-rounder during his era. Also fought in a couple of wars, started a school, and wrote a book.

Aubrey Faulkner All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 118 (FC), 25 (Tests)
  • Runs: 6366 (FC), 1754 (Tests)
  • Wickets: 449 (FC), 82 (Tests)
Aubrey Faulkner Achievements
  • Took 6/17 in just eleven overs against England in 1907
  • Scored 1288 runs & 73 wickets in the 107 season in 1907 and 1075 runs & 163 wickets in 1912.
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18. Clive Rice (South Africa, 1969-1993)

Yet another great South African cricketer that missed out on international cricket stardom. His first-class numbers speak volumes with over 26,000 first class runs & 930 wickets.

Clive Rice All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 482 (FC), 479 (List A)
  • Runs: 26331 (FC), 13474 (List A)
  • Wickets: 930 (FC), 517 (List A)
Clive Rice Achievements
  • Completed the triple of 48 hundreds, 137 wickets, 401 catches
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17. Frank Woolley (England, 1909-1934)

In the golden age of cricket, from the early 1900s to the late 1930s, Frank Woolley was a titan on the pitch for England, dazzling spectators with his graceful left-handed batting that amassed a staggering 58,959 runs in his career, while his formidable left-arm spin bowling claimed 2,503 first-class wickets and a 100 in Test matches; achieving the rare double feat of 2000 runs and 100 wickets in multiple seasons, his immense contributions helped shape the very essence of the all-rounder role in cricket.

Frank Woolley All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 978 (FC), 64 (Tests)
  • Runs: 58959 (FC), 3283 (Tests)
  • Wickets: 2066 (FC), 83 (Tests)
Frank Woolley Achievements
  • Awarded Wisden Cricketer of the Year in 1911
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16. Wilfred Rhodes (England, 1899-1930)

Longest FC career of all-time (30 years), 39,969 FC runs, 58 hundreds, 4204 wickets, 287 5-wicket hauls, and 765 catches. The numbers say it all. One of the early pioneers of the game, dominating from 1899 to 1930.

Wilfred Rhodes All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 1110 (FC), 58 (Tests)
  • Runs: 39969 (FC), 2325 (Tests)
  • Wickets: 4204 (FC), 127 (Tests)
Wilfred Rhodes Achievements
  • Over 1,000 runs and 100 wickets in Test cricket
  • Over 30,000 FC runs and 4000 FC wickets
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15. Sanath Jayasuriya (Sri Lanka, 1989-2011)

Sanath Jayasuriya, a cricketing powerhouse of the 1990s, revolutionized the concept of an all-rounder. His cunning bowling skills and explosive batting style made him only cricketer in history to achieve an all-rounder double of scoring 10,000 runs and taking 300 wickets in a single format, thus leaving an unforgettable legacy on the sport.

Sanath Jayasuriya All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 110 (Tests), 445 (ODIs), 31 (T20Is), 111 (T20s)
  • Runs: 6973 (Tests), 13430 (ODIs), 629 (T20Is), 2317 (T20s)
  • Wickets: 98 (Tests), 323 (ODIs), 19 (T20Is), 77 (T20s)
Sanath Jayasuriya Achievements
  • First cricketer to score over 10,000 runs and claim more than 300 wickets in One Day Internationals.
  • Instrumental in Sri Lanka’s 1996 Cricket World Cup victory, showcasing his dynamic all-round skills.
  • Jayasuriya has won the second most player of the match awards after Sachin Tendulkar.
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14. Daniel Vettori (New Zealand, 1997-2015)

Vettori was a mainstay in the New Zealand cricket team for nearly two decades. Although he was the premier left arm spinner in the world for more than a decade, one of his lasting memories was squeezing Dale Steyn for four to take New Zealand to their first World Cup final. Could be trusted with both bat and ball.

Daniel Vettori All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 113 (Tests), 295 (ODIs), 34 (T20Is), 143 (T20s)
  • Runs: 4531 (Tests), 2253 (ODIs), 205 (T20s), 1041 (T20s)
  • Wickets: 362 (Tests), 305 (ODIs), 38 (T20s), 131 (T20s)
Daniel Vettori Achievements
  • Achieved the rare milestone of 4,000 runs and 350 wickets in Test cricket
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13. Shaun Pollock (South Africa, 1995-2008)

Shaun Pollock, a South African cricket legend who made his debut in 1995, redefined the role of an all-rounder with his potent bowling and handy batting, playing a crucial part in 423 international matches, leading as a captain, and leaving an indelible mark on the sport with his strategic thinking and consistent performances, before transitioning to a respected commentator and coach post-retirement. An all-rounder in every aspect of his life.

Shaun Pollock All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 108 (Tests), 303 (ODIs), 12 (T20Is), 46 (T20s)
  • Runs: 3781 (Tests), 3519 (ODIs), 86 (T20Is), 569 (T20s)
  • Wickets: 421 (Tests), 393 (ODIs), 15 (T20Is), 45 (T20s)
Shaun Pollock Achievements
  • Became the first cricketer to achieve the rare milestone of 3,000 runs and 300 wickets in One Day Internationals.
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12. Shahid Afridi (Pakistan, 1996-2018)

Shahid Afridi, a cricketing dynamo during the 2000s, redefined the role of an all-rounder with his aggressive right-handed batting, versatile leg-spin bowling, and charismatic leadership. He not only led Pakistan to several memorable victories, but also left a lasting impression on the sport with his record-breaking 37-ball ODI century and a unique distinction as the best power-hitter across three decades, thereby solidifying his status as one of cricket’s most influential figures.

Shahid Afridi All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 27 (Tests), 398 (ODIs), 99 (T20Is), 329 (T20s)
  • Runs: 1716 (Tests), 8064 (ODIs), 1416 (T20Is), 4399 (T20s)
  • Wickets: 48 (Tests), 395 (ODIs), 98 (T20Is), 347 (T20s)
Shahid Afridi Achievements
  • Led Pakistan to victory in the 2009 ICC World Twenty20
  • Named the Player of the Tournament
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11. Andrew Flintoff (England, 1998-2009)

The overs to Ricky Ponting & Jacques Kallis probably summed his career up. Energy and intensity like no other. In the 2000s, a time of fierce competition and fast-paced cricket, Andrew Flintoff was a force to be reckoned with. His powerful batting and aggressive bowling made him one of England’s most formidable all-rounders, taking 169 wickets in ODIs and 226 in Test cricket, ranking him among the greatest English bowlers, while his unforgettable ‘Player of the Series’ performance in the 2005 Ashes cemented his legacy as a game-changer for English cricket.

Andrew Flintoff All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 79 (Tests), 141(ODIs), 7 (T20Is)
  • Runs: 3845 (Tests), 3394 (ODIs), 76 (T20Is)
  • Wickets: 226 (Tests), 169 (ODIs), 5 (T20Is)
Andrew Flintoff Achievements
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10. Sir Richard Hadlee (New Zealand, 1973-1990)

Sir Richard Hadlee, a true game-changer and Kiwi legend, wasn’t just an all-rounder but a record-breaker too, retiring with the most Test wickets in 1990. Knighted for his unmatched contributions, Hadlee’s 431 Test wickets have made an indelible mark on the cricketing world. Arguably the best bowler of the lot among Botham, Imran, and Kapil.

Richard Hadlee All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 342 (FC), 86 (Tests), 115 (ODIs)
  • Runs: 12052 (FC), 3124 (Tests), 1751 (ODIs)
  • Wickets: 1490 (FC), 431 (Tests), 158 (ODIs)
Richard Hadlee Achievements
  • Pioneer of New Zealand cricket, holding the record for the most Test wickets by a New Zealand bowler at the time of his retirement.
  • Achieved the remarkable all-rounder milestone of 3,000 runs and 400 wickets in Test cricket.
  • Knighted for his services to cricket, becoming Sir Richard Hadlee in 1990.
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9. Mike Procter (South Africa, 1965-1989)

Another talent lost to international cricket due to the Apartheid ban. Only played seven Tests, but 21,936 first-class runs as well as 1,417 Test wickets are a testament to his abilities.

Mike Procter All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 401 (FC), 7 (Tests)
  • Runs: 21936 (FC), 226 (Tests)
  • Wickets: 1417 (FC), 41 (Tests)
Mike Procter Achievements
  • Wisden Cricketer of the Year (1970)
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8. Richie Benaud (Australia, 1952-1964)

Apart from being one of the greatest commentators of all-time, Richie Benaud had an illustrious career as a leg-spinner, all-rounder, and Australian captain as well.

Richie Benaud All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 259 (FC), 63 (Tests)
  • Runs: 11719 (FC), 2201 (Tests)
  • Wickets: 945 (FC), 248 (Tests)
Richie Benaud Achievements
  • First player to complete the double of 200 wickets and 2000 runs in Test cricket
  • Wisden Cricketer of the Year (1962)
  • Inducted into Australian Cricket Hall of Fame as well as Sport Australia Hall of Fame.
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7. Keith Miller (Australia, 1946-1956)

Keith Miller, a dominant force in Australian cricket during the post-war era, is celebrated as Australia’s greatest all-rounder. His irreverent manner, good looks, and swashbuckling style made him a crowd favorite, and his extraordinary all-round skills etched his name in Australian cricket folklore forever.

Keith Miller All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 226 (FC), 55 (Tests)
  • Runs: 14183 (FC), 2958 (Tests)
  • Wickets: 497 (FC), 170 (Tests)
Keith Miller Achievements
  • Named as one of Wisden Cricketers of the Century in 2000, recognizing his impact on the game.
  • Inducted into the Australian Cricket Hall of Fame for his contributions to Australian cricket.
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6. Imran Khan (Pakistan, 1971-1992)

Imran Khan, a cricketing maestro and one of the finest all-rounders the game has ever seen, etched his name in global cricket history by leading Pakistan to its first and only World Cup victory in 1992. His leadership, unwavering belief in his team, and personal performance—which included over 3,800 runs and 362 wickets in Test cricket—propelled Pakistan cricket to new heights, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to inspire.

Imran Khan All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 382 (FC), 88 (Tests), 175 (ODIs)
  • Runs: 17771 (FC), 3807 (Tests), 3709 (ODIs)
  • Wickets: 1287 (FC), 362 (Tests), 182 (T20Is)
Imran Khan Achievements
  • Led Pakistan to its first Cricket World Cup triumph in 1992.
  • Secured the remarkable all-rounder achievement of over 3,000 runs and 300 wickets in Test cricket.
  • Awarded the Wisden Cricketer of the Year in 1983.
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5. Kapil Dev (India, 1978-1994)

Kapil Dev, the trailblazer of Indian cricket, was a formidable all-rounder who notched up over 5,000 runs and took more than 400 wickets in Test cricket, a feat unmatched by any other cricketer. His leadership guided India to its first ever World Cup victory in 1983, reshaping the landscape of cricket in the country while his fast-bowling prowess earned him respect from batsmen globally, leaving an indelible mark on world cricket.

Kapil Dev All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 275 (FC), 131 (Tests), 225 (ODIs)
  • Runs: 11356 (FC), 5248 (Tests), 3783 (ODIs)
  • Wickets: 835 (FC), 434 (Tests), 253 (ODIs)
Kapil Dev Achievements
  • Captained India to its first-ever Cricket World Cup victory in 1983.
  • Achieved the rare feat of scoring over 5,000 runs and taking more than 400 wickets in Test cricket.
  • Also awarded the Wisden Cricketer of the Year (1983).
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4. Sir Ian Botham (England, 1976-1992)

Ian Botham, a charismatic force in the 1980s, revolutionized cricket with his aggressive stroke play, natural flair, and dynamic batting style, becoming one of the greatest all-rounders in history and significantly influencing English cricket. His unique ability to dominate bowlers and score centuries while capturing 5 wickets in a test match on 5 occasions, along with his fastest double of 1000 runs and 100 wickets, makes him an unforgettable phenomenon in the cricket world.

Ian Botham All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 402 (FC), 102 (Tests), 116 (ODIs)
  • Runs: 19399 (FC), 5200 (Tests), 2113 (ODIs)
  • Wickets: 1172 (FC), 383 (Tests), 145 (ODIs)
Ian Botham Achievements
  • Instrumental in England’s Ashes victories, playing a key role as a dynamic all-rounder.
  • Achieved the historic double of 5,000 runs and 300 wickets in Test cricket.
  • Named BBC Sports Personality of the Year in 1981, reflecting his immense impact on cricket during that period.
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3. Shakib Al Hasan (Bangladesh, 2006-)

Shakib Al Hasan, the dynamic all-rounder from Bangladesh, has been a game-changer in cricket since his debut in 2006. With his consistent and canny bowling, aggressive batting style, and leadership skills (kind of), he has become a cornerstone of the Bangladesh national team. His impressive career stats include over 10,000 runs and 500 wickets across all formats, making him a true cricketing icon for the modern era.

Shakib Al Hasan All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 66 (Tests), 247 (ODIs), 117 (T20Is), 415 (T20s)
  • Runs: 4454 (Tests), 7570 (ODIs), 2382 (T20Is), 6954 (T20s)
  • Wickets: 233 (Tests), 317 (ODIs), 140 (T20Is), 465 (T20s)
Shakib Al Hasan Achievements
  • Ranked #1 ICC ODI all-rounder (2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2015, 2016, 2020, 2021, 2022)
  • #1 ICC T20I all-rounder (2014, 2015, 2017, 2022)
  • #1 ICC Test all-rounder (2014, 2017, 2018)
  • Played a pivotal role in Bangladesh’s success in ICC Cricket World Cups. Scored over 600+ runs and 10+ wickets in the 2019 ODI World Cup.
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2. Sir Garfield Sobers (West Indies, 1954-1974)

Sir Garfield Sobers, the West Indian all-rounder, was a game-changer in every sense, amassing 8,032 Test runs and securing 235 wickets with his versatile bowling. His impact goes beyond statistics, as his passion and resilience continue to inspire generations, making him an enduring icon in cricket.

Garfield Sobers All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 383 (FC), 93 (Tests)
  • Runs: 28314 (FC), 8032 (Tests)
  • Wickets: 1043 (FC), 235 (Tests)
Garfield Sobers Achievements
  • First cricketer to hit six sixes in an over in first-class cricket (1968).
  • Captained the West Indies cricket team.
  • Knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 1975 for his services to cricket.
  • Wisden Cricketer of the Century in 2000.
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1. Jacques Kallis (South Africa, 1995-2014)

Jacques Kallis, the unstoppable South African all-rounder who not only scored a whopping 13,289 Test runs and took 292 Test wickets but also changed the game as we know it. His monumental contributions go beyond stats; they challenge how we view cricket, reminding us that passion, versatility, and sheer skill can indeed redefine a sport.

Also Read: Top 51 Greatest South African Cricketers of All-Time (Updated 2024)

Jacques Kallis All-Round Stats
  • Matches: 166 (Tests), 328 (ODIs), 25 (T20Is)
  • Runs: 10,289 (Tests), 11,579 (ODIs), 666 (T20Is)
  • Wickets: 292 (Tests), 273 (ODIs), 12 (T20Is)
Jacques Kallis Achievements
  • One of only four players with 10,000+ runs and 290+ wickets in Tests.
  • Achieved the ‘double’ of 10,000 runs and 200 wickets in both Tests and ODIs.
  • Wisden Cricketer of the Year in 2003.
  • ICC Men’s Player of the Year (2005)
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Final Thoughts

All-rounders are some of the most sought-after cricketers in each team, regardless of the formats.

India still has not replaced Kapil Dev, every Hardik Pandya injury shakes the entire line up, and two players were needed to replace the great Jacques Kallis.

In ICC tournaments, players like Yuvraj Singh & Lance Klusener become extremely valuable to World Cup victories. The memories of the original Fab 4—Ian Botham, Kapil Dev, Imran Khan, and Sir Richard Hadlee—is still deeply ingrained in every 80s cricket fan’s heart.

From Shahid Afridi to Sir Garfield Sobers, all of these cricketers have made an impact like no other.

Who was your favorite?

****

Hope you enjoyed reading this article. Did you learn something new? Were you provided with a different perspective? Did you become a better person? Ooh, philosophical life questions…

Thanks for reading. Continue reading BCD Cricket Blog articles and follow us on twitter as well.

Frequently Asked Questions – Greatest All-Rounders in Cricket History

Who are the best all-rounders in cricket history?

Jacques Kallis, Sir Garfield Sobers, Shakib Al Hasan, Kapil Dev, Sir Ian Botham, Imran Khan, Keith Miller, Richie Benaud, Sir Richard Hadlee, Shaun Pollock, Shahid Afridi, Andrew Flintoff, Mike Procter, and Sanath Jayasuriya were some of the greatest all-rounders of all time.
Greatest All-Rounders in Cricket History Collage: (From Left to Right) Sir Garfield Sobers, Imran Khan, Jacques Kallis, Ian Botham, Shakib Al Hasan, Kapil Dev, and Sir Richard Hadlee

Why is Jacques Kallis considered one of the greatest all-rounders?

Jacques Kallis – now there’s a name that gets every cricket fan buzzing. With over 22,000 runs and 500 wickets across all formats, Kallis has proven time and again that he’s not only an exceptional batsman but a formidable bowler too. His consistency and versatility are what truly set him apart.

Greatest All-Rounders in Cricket History Collage: (From Left to Right) Sir Garfield Sobers, Imran Khan, Jacques Kallis, Ian Botham, Shakib Al Hasan, Kapil Dev, and Sir Richard Hadlee

What makes a great all-rounder in cricket?

A great all-rounder, like the indomitable Imran Khan or the fiery Kapil Dev, is a player who excels in both batting and bowling. Their ability to adapt to different game situations and contribute significantly to both areas is what makes them so valuable to their team.

Sources: Inspired by Cricinfo’s Greatest All-Rounder Series

© Copyright @Nitesh Mathur and Broken Cricket Dreams, 2023. Originally published on 12/02/2023. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Broken Cricket Dreams with appropriate and specific direction to the original content (i.e. linked to the exact post/article).

Who has the Most Man of the Match Awards in International Cricket? The Greatest Match Winners in Cricket History

Who has the most man of the match awards in international cricket? Which countries have consistently produced the most match-winners?

Here is everything you need to know about the player of the match awards in cricket history.

Key Takeaways

  • Sachin Tendulkar (76), Virat Kohli (63), Sanath Jayasuriya (58), Jacques Kallis (57), and Kumar Sangakkara (50) have the most man of the match awards in international cricket across formats.
  • Jacques Kallis (23), Muttiah Muralitharan (19), Wasim Akram & Shane Warne (17), Ricky Ponting & Kumar Sangakkara (16) have the most man of the match awards in Test cricket. Tendulkar (62), Jayasuriya (48), Kohli (38), and Kallis, Ponting, Afridi (32) have the most MOM awards in ODI cricket. Finally, Virat Kohli (15), Rohit Sharma (12), and Shahid Afridi, Shakib Al Hasan, David Warner (11) have the most MOM awards in T20I cricket.
  • India & Sri Lanka top this list with 6 match-winners each, while Pakistan (5), Australia & West Indies, (4), South Africa (3), Bangladesh & New Zealand (1) complete it. Surprisingly, England have zero players in this list.
  • 21 batters, eight all-rounders, and only one pure bowler (Muralitharan) make up the list of the top 30 most man of the match awards in international cricket. Three wicketkeeper-batters (Sangakkara, AB De Villiers, and Adam Gilchrist) also feature in the list.
  • Viv Richards (13.3%) and Virat Kohli (12.6%) have the highest percentage of player of the match awards per game.

Also Read: Top 17 Greatest Wicketkeepers in Cricket History (Men’s): Which Keepers Have the Most Dismissals Across Formats?, 155 Greatest Cricketers of All Time (Men’s): Who Is the King of Cricket?, Top 32 Best Fielders in Cricket History: Jonty Rhodes, Paul Collingwood…Can You Guess The Rest?

Top 30 Most Player of the Match Awards in International Cricket

*POTM – Player of the Match, Also Known as *MOM – Man of the Match

1. Sachin Tendulkar (India), 76 Awards

  • Years Played: 1989-2013
  • Matches: 664
  • Tests/ODIs/T20Is: 14/62/0

Percentage of POTM Awards per Match: 11.4%

Role: Batter, part-time bowler

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2. Virat Kohli (India), 63 Awards

  • Years Played: 2008-2023*
  • Matches: 501
  • Tests/ODIs/T20Is: 10/38/15

Percentage of POTM Awards Per Match: 12.6%

Role: Batter

*still playing

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3. Sanath Jayasuriya (Sri Lanka), 58 Awards

  • Years Played: 1989-2011
  • Matches: 586
  • Tests/ODIs/T20Is: 4/48/6

Percentage of POTM Awards Per Match: 9.9%

Role: All-Rounder

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4. Jacques Kallis (South Africa), 57 Awards

  • Years Played: 1995-2014
  • Matches: 519
  • Tests/ODIs/T20Is: 23/32/2

Percentage of POTM Awards Per Match: 11.0%

Role: All-Rounder

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5. Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka), 50 Awards

  • Years Played: 2000-2015
  • Matches: 594
  • Tests/ODIs/T20Is: 16/31/3

Percentage of POTM Awards Per Match: 8.42%

Role: Batter, Wicketkeeper

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6. Ricky Ponting (Australia), 49 Awards

  • Years Played: 1995-2014
  • Matches: 560
  • Tests/ODIs/T20Is: 16/32/1

Percentage of POTM Awards Per Match: 8.75%

Role: Batter

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7. Shahid Afridi (Pakistan), 43 Awards

  • Years Played: 1996-2018
  • Matches: 524
  • Tests/ODIs/T20Is: 6/25/11

Percentage of POTM Awards Per Match: 8.2%

Role: All-Rounder

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8. Shakib Al Hasan (Bangladesh), 42 Awards

  • Years Played: 2006-2003*
  • Matches: 418
  • Tests/ODIs/T20Is: 6/25/11

Percentage of POTM Awards Per Match: 10.0%

Role: All-Rounder

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9. Brian Lara (West Indies), 42 Awards

  • Years Played: 1990-2007
  • Matches: 430
  • Tests/ODIs/T20Is: 12/30/0

Percentage of POTM Awards Per Match: 9.8%

Role: Batter

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10. Sir Vivian Richards (West Indies), 41 Awards

  • Years Played: 1974-1991
  • Matches: 308
  • Tests/ODIs/T20Is: 10/31/0

Percentage of POTM Awards Per Match: 13.3%

Role: Batter, part-time bowler

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11. Aravinda de Silva (Sri Lanka), 41 Awards

  • Years Played: 1984-2003
  • Matches: 401
  • Tests/ODIs/T20Is: 11/30/0

Percentage of POTM Awards Per Match: 10.2%

Role: Batter, part-time bowler

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12. Chris Gayle (West Indies), 41 Awards

  • Years Played: 1999-2021
  • Matches: 483
  • Tests/ODIs/T20Is: 8/23/10

Percentage of POTM Awards Per Match: 8.5%

Role: Batter, part-time bowler

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13. Mahela Jayawardene (Sri Lanka), 41 Awards

  • Years Played: 1997-2015
  • Matches: 652
  • Tests/ODIs/T20Is: 13/22/6

Percentage of POTM Awards Per Match: 6.3%

Role: Batter

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14. AB De Villiers (South Africa), 39 Awards

  • Years Played: 2004-2018
  • Matches: 420
  • Tests/ODIs/T20Is: 13/22/6

Percentage of POTM Awards Per Match: 9.3%

Role: Batter, Wicketkeeper

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15. Wasim Akram (Pakistan), 39 Awards

  • Years Played: 1984-2003
  • Matches: 460
  • Tests/ODIs/T20Is: 17/22/0

Percentage of POTM Awards Per Match: 8.5%

Role: All-Rounder

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16. Sourav Ganguly (India), 37 Awards

  • Years Played: 1992-2008
  • Matches: 424
  • Tests/ODIs/T20Is: 6/31/0

Percentage of POTM Awards Per Match: 8.7%

Role: Batter, part-time bowler

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17. Rohit Sharma (India), 37 Awards

  • Years Played: 2007-2023*
  • Matches: 444
  • Tests/ODIs/T20Is: 4/21/12

Percentage of POTM Awards Per Match: 8.3%

Role: Batter

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18. David Warner (Australia), 36 Awards

  • Years Played: 2009-2023*
  • Matches: 350
  • Tests/ODIs/T20Is: 8/17/11

Percentage of POTM Awards Per Match: 10.3%

Role: Batter

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19. Adam Gilchrist (Australia), 35 Awards

  • Years Played: 1996-2008
  • Matches: 396
  • Tests/ODIs/T20Is: 7/28/0

Percentage of POTM Awards Per Match: 8.8%

Role: Batter, wicketkeeper

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20. Steve Waugh (Australia), 35 Awards

  • Years Played: 1985-2004
  • Matches: 493
  • Tests/ODIs/T20Is: 14/21/0

Percentage of POTM Awards Per Match: 7.1%

Role: Batter, part-time bowler

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21. Tillakarantne Dilshan (Sri Lanka), 35 Awards

  • Years Played: 1999-2016
  • Matches: 497
  • Tests/ODIs/T20Is: 4/25/6

Percentage of POTM Awards Per Match: 7.0%

Role: Batter, part-time bowler

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22. Martin Guptill (New Zealand), 34 Awards

  • Years Played: 2009-2022*
  • Matches: 367
  • Tests/ODIs/T20Is: 2/22/10

Percentage of POTM Awards Per Match: 9.3%

Role: Batter

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23. Yuvraj Singh (India), 34 Awards

  • Years Played: 2000-2017
  • Matches: 402
  • Tests/ODIs/T20Is: 0/27/7

Percentage of POTM Awards Per Match: 8.5%

Role: All-Rounder

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24. Shaun Pollock (South Africa), 34 Awards

  • Years Played: 1995-2008
  • Matches: 423
  • Tests/ODIs/T20Is: 11/22/1

Percentage of POTM Awards Per Match: 8.0%

Role: All-Rounder

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25. Inzamam-ul-Haq (Pakistan), 33 Awards

  • Years Played: 1991-2007
  • Matches: 499
  • Tests/ODIs/T20Is: 9/24/0

Percentage of POTM Awards Per Match: 8.1%

Role: Batter

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26. Mohammad Hafeez (Pakistan), 32 Awards

  • Years Played: 2003-2021
  • Matches: 392
  • Tests/ODIs/T20Is: 2/19/11

Percentage of POTM Awards Per Match: 8.2%

Role: All-Rounder

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27. Muttiah Muralitharan (Sri Lanka), 32 Awards

  • Years Played: 1992-2011
  • Matches: 495
  • Tests/ODIs/T20Is: 19/13/0

Percentage of POTM Awards Per Match: 6.5%

Role: Bowler

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28. Virender Sehwag (India), 31 Awards

  • Years Played: 1999-2013
  • Matches: 374
  • Tests/ODIs/T20Is: 8/23/0

Percentage of POTM Awards Per Match: 8.3%

Role: Batter, part-time bowler

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29. Saeed Anwar (Pakistan), 30 Awards

  • Years Played: 1989-2003
  • Matches: 302
  • Tests/ODIs/T20Is: 2/28/0

Percentage of POTM Awards Per Match: 9.9%

Role: Batter

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30. Desmond Haynes (West Indies), 30 Awards

  • Years Played: 1978-1994
  • Matches: 354
  • Tests/ODIs/T20Is: 3/17/9

Percentage of POTM Awards Per Match: 8.5%

Role: Batter

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Final Thoughts

Alright, so let’s wrap this up.

When we talk about cricket and the greatest match winner in international cricket, there’s one name that stands out – Sachin Tendulkar. He is a legend, and he’s received the awards to prove it. He holds the record for the most Man of the Match awards in international cricket. Talk about being a match-winner!

But let’s not forget about other greats like Virat Kohli, Jacques Kallis, and Sanath Jayasuriya. These guys have also shown time and time again that they can step up and deliver when it matters most. They’ve racked up their fair share of Man of the Match awards. There are several others that do not make the list but are great match-winners in their own right – MS Dhoni, Joe Root, Ben Stokes, Steve Smith, Ravichandran Ashwin, Rashid Khan, Shane Watson, Dale Steyn, Jimmy Anderson, Shane Warne, Anil Kumble, Kane Williamson, etc.

So, there you have it.

These cricketers have left a long-lasting mark on the game, and fans will never forget their contributions. They truly embody what cricket is all about – talent, spirit, and the will to win. And that’s why we love this game, right?

Frequently Asked Questions – Most Man of the Match Awards in International Cricket

Who has won the most man of the match awards in international cricket?

Sachin Tendulkar (76), Virat Kohli (63), Sanath Jayasuriya (58), Jacques Kallis (57), and Kumar Sangakkara (50) have the most man of the match awards in international cricket across formats.

Who has won the most player of the match awards in Test cricket?

Jacques Kallis (23), Muttiah Muralitharan (19), Wasim Akram & Shane Warne (17), Ricky Ponting & Kumar Sangakkara (16) have the most player of the match awards in Test cricket.

Who has won the most player of the match awards in ODI cricket?

Tendulkar (62), Jayasuriya (48), Kohli (38), and Kallis, Ponting, Afridi (32) have won the most player of the match awards in ODI cricket.

Who has won the most player of the match awards in T20I cricket?

Virat Kohli (15), Rohit Sharma (12), and Shahid Afridi, Shakib Al Hasan, David Warner (11) have the most player of the match awards in T20I cricket.

© Copyright @Nitesh Mathur and Broken Cricket Dreams, 2021. Originally published on 7/28/2023. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Broken Cricket Dreams with appropriate and specific direction to the original content (i.e. linked to the exact post/article).

Who Has Scored the Most Test Runs? List of Top 35 Highest Runs Scorers in Test Cricket History

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!

Related Articles

Key Takeaways – Most Test Runs

  • 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.

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2. Ricky Ponting (13378 Runs), Australia

  • Years Played: 1995-2012
  • Tests/Innings: 168/287
  • Average: 51.85

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.

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3. Jacques Kallis (13289 Runs), South Africa

  • Years Played: 1995-2013
  • Tests/Innings: 166/280
  • Average: 55.37

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.

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4. Rahul Dravid (13288 Runs), India

  • Years Played: 1996-2012
  • Tests/Innings: 164/286
  • Average: 52.31

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.

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5. Alastair Cook (12472 Runs), England

  • Years Played: 1996-2012
  • Tests/Innings: 166/280
  • Average: 45.35

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.

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6. Kumar Sangakkara (12400 Runs), Sri Lanka

  • Years Played: 2000-2015
  • Tests/Innings: 134/233
  • Average: 57.40

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.

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7. Brian Lara (11953 Runs), West Indies

  • Years Played: 1990-2006
  • Matches: 131/232
  • Average: 52.88

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.

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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.

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9. Mahela Jayawardene (11814 Runs), Sri Lanka

  • Years Played: 1997-2014
  • Tests/Innings: 149/252
  • Average: 49.84

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.

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11. Joe Root (11178 Runs), England

  • Years Played: 2012-present
  • Matches: 132/241
  • Average: 50.57

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.

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10. Allan Border (11174 Runs), Australia

  • Years Played: 1978-1994
  • Tests/Innings: 156/265
  • Average: 50.56

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.

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12. Steve Waugh (10927 Runs), Australia

  • Years Played: 1985-2004
  • Tests/Innings: 168/260
  • Average: 51.06

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.

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13. Sunil Gavaskar (10122 Runs), India

  • Years Played: 1971-1987
  • Tests/Innings: 125/514
  • Average: 51.12

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.

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14. Younis Khan (10099 Runs), Pakistan

  • Years Played: 2000-2017
  • Tests/Innings: 118/213
  • Average: 52.05

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.

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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 TeamRunsMatches/
Innings
AverageYears Played
1. Sachin TendulkarIndia15921200/32953.781989-2013
2. Ricky PontingAustralia13378168/28751.851995-2012
3. Jacques Kallis South Africa13289166/28055.371995-2013
4. Rahul DravidIndia13288164/28652.311996-2012
5. Alastair CookEngland12472161/29145.352006-2018
6. Kumar SangakkaraSri Lanka12400134/23357.402000-2015
7. Brian LaraWest Indies11953131/23252.881990-2006
8. Shivnarine ChanderpaulWest Indies11867164/28051.371994-2015
9. Mahela JayawardeneSri Lanka11814149/25249.841997-2014
10. Allan BorderAustralia11174156/26550.561978-1994
11. Joe Root*England11168131/24050.762012-
12. Steve WaughAustralia10927168/26051.061985-2004
13. Sunil GavaskarIndia10122125/21451.121971-1987
14. Younis KhanPakistan10099118/21352.052000-2017
15. Hashim AmlaSouth Africa9282124/21546.642004-2019
16. Graeme SmithSouth Africa9265117/20548.252002-2014
17. Steve Smith*Australia908599/17559.762010-
18. Graham GoochEngland8900118/21542.581975-1995
19. Javed MiandadPakistan8832124/18952.571976-1993
20. Inzamam-ul-HaqPakistan8830120/20049.601992-2007
21. VVS LaxmanIndia8781134/22545.971996-2012
22. AB De VilliersSouth Africa8765114/19150.662004-2018
23. Michael ClarkeAustralia8643115/19849.102004-2015
24. Matthew HaydenAustralia8625103/18450.731994-2009
25. Virender SehwagIndia8586104/18049.342001-2013
26. Vivian Richards West Indies8540121/18250.231974-1991
27. Virat Kohli*India8479109/18548.722011-
28. Alec StewartEngland8463133/23539.541990-2003
29. David Warner*Australia8247105/19145.062011-
30. David GowerEngland8231117/20444.251978-1992
31. Kevin PietersenEngland8181104/18147.282005-2014
32. Kane Williamson*New Zealand812494/16454.892010-
33. Geoffrey BoycottEngland8114108/19347.821964-1982
34. Garfield SobersWest Indies803293/16057.781854-1974
35. Mark WaughAustralia8029128/20941.811991-2002

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.

© Copyright @Nitesh Mathur and Broken Cricket Dreams, LLC 2023. Originally published on 06/25/2023. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Broken Cricket Dreams with appropriate and specific direction to the original content (i.e. linked to the exact post/article).

Who Has the Most Test Centuries in Cricket History?| List of Top 25 Cricketers with Test Hundreds

Can you name cricketers with the most test centuries? If you are struggling, don’t worry. We got you.

Test cricket is the most challenging format of the sport, and it takes great skill and determination to reach the pinnacle of batting performance. That’s why a century in Test cricket has become one of the most sought-after milestones for batters. In this post, we take a look at 25 cricketers who have scored the most Test centuries. From Sachin Tendulkar to Steve Smith, we’ll explore the career records of each and every cricketer who has achieved this extraordinary feat.

So, come join us and let’s dive into the fascinating world of cricketing greatness!

Table of Contents – Most Runs in Test Cricket

Key Takeaways

  • Sachin Tendulkar (51), Jacques Kallis (45), Ricky Ponting (41), Kumar Sangakkara (38), and Rahul Dravid (36) are the Top 5 batters with the most centuries in Test cricket.
  • Sachin Tendulkar (119), Jacques Kallis (103), Ricky Ponting (103), Rahul Dravid (99), and Shivnaire Chanderpaul (96) have the most 50+ scores in Test cricket.
  • Sir Donald Bradman (99.94), Steve Smith (60.22), Sir Garfield Sobers (57.78), Kumar Sangakkara (57.40), and Jacques Kallis (55.37) have the highest average for players on this list of most Test centuries.
  • Sir Donald Bradman (29 – 100s, 13 – 50s)/Younis Khan (34/33), Matthew Hayden (30/29), Michael Clarke (28/27), and Virat Kohli (28/28) have the best conversion rates from fifties to hundreds in Test matches.
  • Sachin Tendulkar (15921), Ricky Ponting (13378), Jacques Kallis (13289), Rahul Dravid (13288), and Alastair Cook (12472) have scored the most Test runs.
  • Australia (8), India (4), South Africa, West Indies (3), Sri Lanka, England, Pakistan (2), and New Zealand (1) have produced the most players on this elite list.
  • Only Steve Smith (32), Joe Root (30), Virat Kohli (28), Kane Williamson (28), and David Warner (25) are the remaining active players on this list.

There were some players that surprisingly missed out:

Notable Omissions: Mohammad Yousuf, Greg Chappell, Viv Richards (24) Virender Sehwag, Kevin Pietersen, Justin Langer, Javid Miandad (23), AB De Villiers, Geoffrey Boycott, Mohammad Azharuddin, Colin Cowdrey, Ian Bell (22)

Test Cricket Batting Records: Top 25 List of Most Test Centuries

In this Top 25 list of cricketers with the most Test centuries, each cricketer has more than 25 Test hundreds to their name.

Note: To break ties, we went with the player with the most 50+ scores. In addition, players with * next to their names are still active in international cricket.

1. Sachin Tendulkar (51), India

  • Years Played: 1989-2013, Test Matches Played: 200
  • Total 50+ Scores: 119 (51 – 100s, 68 – 50s)
  • Average: 53.78
  • Runs Scored: 15921

Sachin Tendulkar stands at the top of the list with a whopping 51 Test centuries, establishing him as one of the greatest batsmen in cricket history.

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2. Jacques Kallis (45), South Africa

  • Years Played: 1995-2013, Test Matches Played: 166
  • Total 50+ Scores: 103 (45 – 100s, 58 – 50s)
  • Average: 55.37
  • Runs Scored: 13289

Jacques Kallis was one of the greatest all-rounders to have ever played the game, and his 45 Test centuries stand testament to this.

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3. Ricky Ponting (41), Australia

  • Years Played: 1995-2012, Test Matches Played: 168
  • Total 50+ Scores: 103 (41 – 100s, 62 – 50s)
  • Average: 51.85
  • Runs Scored: 13378

Ricky Ponting is the all-time highest run scorer for Australia in Test cricket, and his 41 centuries have put him firmly at third on this list. Ponting’s career was marked by consistent runs, hundreds in various conditions, and captaincy glory.

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4. Kumar Sangakkara (38), Sri Lanka

  • Years Played: 2000-2015, Test Matches Played: 134
  • Total 50+ Scores: 90 (38- 100s, 52 – 50s)
  • Average: 57.40
  • Runs Scored: 12400

Kumar Sangakkara is one of the most prolific batsmen in Test cricket, with 38 centuries to his name. His 90 50+ scores display his longevity and consistency, making him one of the all-time greats.

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5. Rahul Dravid (36), India

  • Years Played: 1996-2012, Test Matches Played: 164
  • Total 50+ Scores: 99 (36- 100s, 63- 50s)
  • Average: 52.31
  • Runs Scored: 13288

Rahul Dravid, nicknamed ‘The Wall’, is one of the only few cricketers to have scored centuries in all 10 Test playing nations. His 36 centuries and 99 50+ scores make him one of the most prolific batsmen in history. Along with Sachin Tendulkar, Dravid formed a formidable partnership for India’s batting line up during the late 90s and early 2000s.

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6. Mahela Jayawardene (34), Sri Lanka

  • Years Played: 1997-2014, Test Matches Played: 149
  • Total 50+ Scores: 84 (34- 100s, 50 – 50s)
  • Average: 49.84
  • Runs Scored: 11814

Mahela Jayawardene is the highest Test run scorer for Sri Lanka, with 11814 runs in 149 Tests. His batting style was known for its elegance and grace, and he will be remembered as one of the greats of Sri Lankan cricket.

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7. Brian Lara (34), West Indies

  • Years Played: 1990-2016, Test Matches Played: 131
  • Total 50+ Scores: 82 (34- 100s, 48 – 50s)
  • Average: 52.88
  • Runs Scored: 11953

Brian Lara is widely regarded as one of the greatest batsmen in cricket history. He holds the record for the highest individual score in Test cricket (400*). His elegant stroke play set him apart from the rest of the pack.

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8. Sunil Gavaskar (34), India

  • Years Played: 1971-1987, Test Matches Played: 125
  • Total 50+ Scores: 79 (34 – 100s, 45 – 50s)
  • Average: 51.12
  • Runs Scored: 10122

Sunil Gavaskar is considered to be one of the best openers to have ever played cricket. His Test centuries scores speak volumes about his ability with the bat, and he holds the record for most Test centuries by an Indian batsman. He was known for his defensive technique and in a career spanning 16 years.

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9. Younis Khan (34), Pakistan

  • Years Played: 2000-2017, Test Matches Played: 118
  • Total 50+ Scores: 67 (34 – 100s, 33 – 50s)
  • Average: 52.05
  • Runs Scored: 10099

Younis Khan was a Pakistani batting icon and his 34 centuries speak volumes of his ability. He is the only player in the world to have scored centuries in 11 countries*, and he holds the record for most Test centuries by a Pakistani batsman. His attitude towards cricket made him an inspiration to many young players.

*since UAE/Pakistan both hosted home matches for Pakistan during his career

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10. Sir Alastair Cook (33), England

  • Years Played: 2006-2018, Test Matches Played: 161
  • Total 50+ Scores: 90 (33 – 100s, 57 – 50s)
  • Average: 45.35
  • Runs Scored: 12472

Sir Alastair Cook, one of the most successful English batsmen in history, has 33 Test centuries to his name. He holds several records for England’s batting performance, including most consecutive tests and most runs scored (until Joe Root takes over, of course). His success is due to his hard work and dedication, which have made him a true legend of the game.

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11. Steve Waugh (32), Australia

  • Years Played: 1985-2004, Test Matches Played: 168
  • Total 50+ Scores: 82 (32 – 100s, 50 – 50s)
  • Average: 51.06
  • Runs Scored: 10927

Steve Waugh was one of Australia’s greatest batsmen, and one of the best captains for sure. He was known for his aggressive style of play and determination to succeed in every match.

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12. Steve Smith* (32), Australia

  • Years Played: 2010-, Test Matches Played: 99*
  • Total 50+ Scores: 69 (32 – 100s, 37 – 50s)
  • Average: 59.76
  • Runs Scored: 9085

Steve Smith is a modern-day batting legend, and his Test average around 60 (after almost 100 tests) is one of the highest among contemporary batsmen. His success has been due to his meticulous approach to the game and ability to dominate any bowling attack.

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13. Shivnarine Chanderpaul (30), West Indies

  • Years Played: 1994-2015, Test Matches Played: 164
  • Total 50+ Scores: 96 (30 – 100s, 66 – 50s)
  • Average: 51.37
  • Runs Scored: 11867

Shivnarine Chanderpaul was one of the most consistent and reliable batsmen for West Indies. His 96 50+ scores speak of his ability to bat long and dominate the bowlers, especially as a lower middle order batter.

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14. Joe Root* (30), England

  • Years Played: 2012-, Test Matches Played: 129
  • Total 50+ Scores: 86 (29 – 100s, 57 – 50s)
  • Average: 50.22
  • Runs Scored: 10948

Joe Root is the name that comes to mind when talking about England’s current batting lineup. He has been a consistent performer for England, and his dedication and commitment to improving as a player are admirable. His stellar 2021-22 season has definitely put him as one of greatest batsmen of our generation, if not all-time.

Also Read: What is Bazball? The Official Definition of Bazball is…

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15. Matthew Hayden (30), Australia

  • Years Played: 1994-2009, Test Matches Played: 103
  • Total 50+ Scores: 59 (30 – 100s, 29 – 50s)
  • Average: 50.73
  • Runs Scored: 8625

Matthew Hayden was a powerhouse of Australian cricket. He was known for his aggressive style of play and ability to dominate the bowlers in all conditions. His Test hundred conversion rate still stands tall in world cricket, and he will be remembered as one of Australia’s finest batsmen.

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16. Virat Kohli*(29), India

  • Years Played: 2011-, Test Matches Played: 108
  • Total 50+ Scores: 56 (28 – 100s, 29 – 50s)
  • Average: 48.93
  • Runs Scored: 8416

Virat Kohli is a modern-day batting great, and his ability to score runs at will has made him one of the most feared batsmen in world cricket. His aggressive style of play combined with his natural technique make him a force to be reckoned with, especially his exploits in Australia, South Africa, and a memorable comeback in England.

Also Read: Virat Kohli’s 25 Best Innings Across International Formats (RANKED): Mohali 2016, MCG 2022, Hobart 133*, Adelaide 141…Which One is Your Favorite?, How Many ODI Centuries has Virat Kohli Scored? (The Complete Guide) List of Virat Kohli’s 46 ODI Centuries

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17. Sir Donald Bradman (29), Australia

  • Years Played: 1928-1948, Test Matches Played: 52
  • Total 50+ Scores: 42 (29 – 100s, 13 – 50s)
  • Average: 99.94
  • Runs Scored: 6996

Probably the greatest batsman of all time, Sir Donald Bradman needs no introduction. His incredible average of nearly 100 is a testament to his legendary batting skills and ability to dominate any bowling attack in the world. He was one of the most feared batsmen of his era, and he will continue to inspire generations of cricketers for years to come.

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18. Hashim Amla (28), South Africa

  • Years Played: 2004-2019, Test Matches Played: 124
  • Total 50+ Scores: 69 (28 – 100s, 41- 50s)
  • Average: 46.64
  • Runs Scored: 9282

Hashim Amla was one of South Africa’s most consistent batsmen, and his style of play has been a delight to watch. His ability to stay focused and grind out long innings made him an integral part of the Proteas’ batting line-up for many years.

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19. Michael Clarke (28), Australia

  • Years Played: 2004-2015, Test Matches Played: 115
  • Total 50+ Scores: 55 (28 – 100s, 27 – 50s)
  • Average: 49.10
  • Runs Scored: 8643

Michael Clarke was one of Australia’s most successful captains, and his batting record speaks for itself. He was known for his calm approach to the game, and he had a knack for scoring big runs when it mattered the most. The way he batted in the double century filled 2012-13 season was just amazing to watch.

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20. Kane Williamson* (28), New Zealand

  • Years Played: 2010-2023, Test Matches Played: 93
  • Total 50+ Scores: 60 (27 – 100s, 33 – 50s)
  • Average: 53.80
  • Runs Scored: 7909

Kane Williamson is one of the best batsmen in the world, and his ability to build an innings from scratch and score big runs has made him a star. His calm demeanor and sound technique have enabled him to dominate in all conditions, making him one of the most respected cricketers of our time.

With Ross Taylor, he formed the core of a World Test Championship winning middle order.

Also Read: Ross Taylor, An Underrated Cricketer Who Was A Giant Among New Zealand’s Greatest Generation, World Test Championship Final Review 2021

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21. Allan Border (27), Australia

  • Years Played: 1978-1994, Test Matches Played: 156
  • Total 50+ Scores: 90 (27 – 100s, 63 – 50s)
  • Average: 50.56
  • Runs Scored: 11174

Allan Border was known for being a gritty player with an eye for scoring big runs, and he was able to do so even on difficult pitches. His contribution to Australia’s success in the 1980s and 1990s cannot be understated.

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22. Graeme Smith (27), South Africa

  • Years Played: 2002-2014, Test Matches Played: 117
  • Total 50+ Scores: 65 (27 – 100s, 38 – 50s)
  • Average: 48.25
  • Runs Scored: 9265

Graeme Smith was known for his fearless batting, and he led the South African team with bravery and determination. He was able to stay at the crease for long periods of time and score big runs in difficult conditions, making him one of the greatest opening batsmen in history.

The way he batted with a broken hand to try to save a Test match against Mitchell Johnson and Australia is exemplary of his bravery and fearlessness. A ‘mighty figure,’ commentators declared.

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23. Sir Garfield Sobers (26), West Indies

  • Years Played: 1954-1974, Test Matches Played: 93
  • Total 50+ Scores: 56 (26 – 100s, 30 – 50s)
  • Average: 57.78
  • Runs Scored: 8032

Sir Garfield Sobers is widely regarded as one of the greatest all-round cricketers in history. His talent and skill with both bat and ball have rarely been matched, and his ability to control a match with his batting was remarkable. He will forever be remembered for his incredible achievements on the cricket field.

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24. Inzamam Ul-Haq (25), Pakistan

  • Years Played: 1992-2007, Test Matches Played: 120
  • Total 50+ Scores: 71 (25 – 100s, 46 – 50s)
  • Average: 49.60
  • Runs Scored: 8830

Inzamam Ul-Haq was one of Pakistan’s most consistent batsmen, and he was able to score big runs when the team needed them. His ability to play with power and finesse made him a formidable opponent for any bowler. With Younis & Yousuf, Pakistan had a stable middle order that they had lacked earlier.

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25. David Warner (25), Australia

  • Years Played: 2011-, Test Matches Played: 103
  • Total 50+ Scores: 59 (25 – 100s, 34 – 50s)
  • Average: 45.57
  • Runs Scored: 8158

David Warner is one of Australia’s most explosive batsmen, and his ability to score quickly and aggressively has made him a vital asset for the team.

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Final Thoughts on Test Crickets Greatest Centurions

Test cricket is a game of patience, skill and strategy, and several cricketers have been able to master it.

The players on this list are have scored the most test centuries in cricket history. This indicates the impact they had and the number of the games they changed. Each one has made an incredible contribution to the sport through their individual performances. Their feats will continue to be remembered for years to come as a testament to the sheer brilliance and dedication of these players. Test cricket will always be a game of heroes.

Thanks for reading and enjoy the game!

Also Read: 155 Greatest Cricketers of All Time (Men’s): The Complete List (Updated 2023), 76 Greatest Women Cricketers of All Time, Most Wickets in Test Cricket, Most Runs in Test Cricket

Most Test Centuries – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who has the most centuries in Test Cricket?

Sachin Tendulkar (51), Jacques Kallis (45), Ricky Ponting (41), Kumar Sangakkara (38), Rahul Dravid (36), Mahela Jayawardene (34), Brian Lara (34), Sunil Gavaskar (34), Younis Khan (34), and Alastair Cook (33), are the Top 10 batters with most centuries in Test cricket.Collage of Cricketers with Most Test Centuries

2. Who has scored the most double centuries in Test cricket?

Sir Donald Bradman (12), Kumar Sangakkara (11), Brian Lara (9), Wally Hammond (7), Virat Kohli (7), and Mahela Jayawardene have scored the most Test double centuries.

3. Who has scored the most Test centuries in a calendar year?

Mohammad Yousuf (9, 2006), Ricky Ponting (7, 2006), Sir Vivian Richards (7, 1976), Aravinda de Silva (7, 1997), and Sachin Tendulkar (7, 2010) scored the most Test centuries in a calendar year.

4. Who has scored the most Test centuries for India?

Sachin Tendulkar (51), Rahul Dravid (36), Sunil Gavaskar (34), Virat Kohli (28), Virender Sehwag (23), Mohammad Azharuddin (22), Cheteshwar Pujara (19), Dilip Vengsarkar (17), VVS Laxman (17), and Sourav Ganguly (16) have scored the most Test hundreds for India.

5. Who has scored the most Test centuries for England?

Alastair Cook (33), Joe Root (29), Kevin Pietersen (23), Wally Hammond, Colin Cowdrey, Geoffrey Boycott, Ian Bell (22), Andrew Strauss (21), Ken Barrington, Graham Gooch (20), Len Hutton (19), Michael Vaughan, David Gower (18), and Denis Compton (17) scored the most Test hundreds for England.

6. Who has scored the most Test centuries for Australia?

Ricky Ponting (41), Steve Waugh (32), Steve Smith (30), Matthew Hayden (30), Sir Don Bradman (29), Michael Clarke (28), Allan Border (27), David Warner (25), Greg Chappell (24), Justin Langer (23), Neil Harvey, David Boon (21), Mark Waugh (20), Mike Hussey, Mark Taylor (19), and Adam Gilchrist (17) scored the most hundreds for Australia.

© Copyright @Nitesh Mathur and Broken Cricket Dreams, LLC 2023. Originally published on 03/14/2023. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Broken Cricket Dreams with appropriate and specific direction to the original content (i.e. linked to the exact post/article).