Top Test Run Scorers of 2024: As 2024 draws to a close, cricket fans are looking back at a year filled with exhilarating Test cricket. The year has brought remarkable performances from some of the biggest names in the game while also witnessing unexpected slumps from seasoned stars. Joe Root ruled the Test batting charts, while only two Indians managed to crack the top 10, and big guns like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma endured a forgettable run.
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Top Test Run Scorers of 2024: Joe Root Dominates While Indian Stars Struggle
Joe Root: The Run Machine of 2024
England’s ever reliable Joe Root has been nothing short of phenomenal this year. Root tops the Test run scorers chart with an astounding 1,556 runs in just 17 matches at an average of 55.57. His tally includes six centuries and five half centuries, with a highest score of 262 against Pakistan in Multan.
Among his many highlights, Root’s back to back centuries at Lord’s against Sri Lanka in August stood out. Scoring 143 in the first innings and 103 in the second, Root proved yet again why he’s one of the finest Test batters of his generation.
Yashasvi Jaiswal Shines for India
India’s breakout star, Yashasvi Jaiswal, had a stellar year, finishing as the second highest run scorer in Tests in 2024. In just 14 matches and 27 innings, Jaiswal amassed 1,324 runs at an average of 52.48, with three centuries and seven half-centuries. His highest score of 214 showcased his ability to play long innings under pressure, cementing his spot as India’s new batting sensation.
Ravindra Jadeja: India’s Unsung Hero
The only other Indian in the top 10 is Ravindra Jadeja, who finished ninth with 866 runs in 12 matches. Jadeja notched up three centuries and three fifties, proving yet again why he’s one of the most valuable all rounders in the world.
Disappointing Year for Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli
While young guns like Jaiswal thrived, senior Indian players struggled in 2024:
- Rohit Sharma: The Indian captain managed just 607 runs in 13 matches at a below par average of 26.39, with only one century.
- Virat Kohli: The former skipper had an even tougher time, scoring a mere 376 runs in 9 matches at an average of 25.06, with one century and one half century to his name.
Both stalwarts will be hoping to bounce back in 2025 after a year marred by inconsistency and lack of big scores.
Other Top Performers in 2024
While Root and Jaiswal grabbed headlines, several other batters lit up the Test arena in 2024:
- Ben Duckett (England): Scored 1,149 runs at an average of 37.06, including two centuries.
- Harry Brook (England): Continued his meteoric rise with 1,100 runs at an impressive average of 55.00.
- Kusal Mendis (Sri Lanka): Boasted an extraordinary average of 74.92, scoring 1,049 runs, including five centuries.
- Kane Williamson (New Zealand): Consistently delivered with 1,013 runs at an average of 59.58.
- Rachin Ravindra (New Zealand): Emerging as a reliable performer with 984 runs at 42.78.
Full List: Most Test Runs in 2024
| Batter | Country | Runs | Average | 100s/50s |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Joe Root | England | 1556 | 55.57 | 6/5 |
| Yashasvi Jaiswal | India | 1312 | 52.48 | 3/7 |
| Ben Duckett | England | 1149 | 37.06 | 2/6 |
| Harry Brook | England | 1100 | 55.00 | 4/3 |
| Kusal Mendis | Sri Lanka | 1049 | 74.92 | 5/3 |
| Kane Williamson | New Zealand | 1013 | 59.58 | 4/4 |
| Ollie Pope | England | 994 | 33.13 | 3/4 |
| Rachin Ravindra | New Zealand | 984 | 42.78 | 2/4 |
| Ravindra Jadeja | India | 866 | 43.30 | 3/3 |
| Dinesh Chandimal | Sri Lanka | 724 | 42.58 | 2/5 |
What Went Wrong for Big Names Like Steve Smith?
It wasn’t just Kohli and Rohit who faltered this year. Steve Smith, once Australia’s batting mainstay, endured a tough time with only 337 runs in 8 matches, averaging a lowly 22.47. Despite one century, Smith’s lack of consistency reflected Australia’s broader struggles in Test cricket this year.
The 2024 Test run scorers chart highlights a shift in the cricketing landscape. Young talents like Yashasvi Jaiswal and Harry Brook are emerging as new stars, while seasoned campaigners like Virat Kohli and Steve Smith grapple with declining form.
As we look ahead to 2025, the stage is set for an exciting battle between the old guard aiming for redemption and the young guns determined to make their mark.
FAQs
Who is the highest run scorer in Test cricket in 2024?
Joe Root is the highest run scorer, with 1,556 runs in 2024
How many runs did Yashasvi Jaiswal score in 2024?
Yashasvi Jaiswal scored 1,324 runs in 2024
