The ICC World Test Championship (WTC), which began in August 2019, has brought some of the best performances from India’s top batsmen. As the tournament unfolds in two-year cycles, India has consistently reached the finals, though victory has eluded them. With a focus on India’s strength in batting, here’s a look at the five Indian batsmen who have scored the most runs in the WTC, with a couple of notable names missing from the current team setup.
1. Rohit Sharma – 2552 Runs
Leading the charge is captain Rohit Sharma, who has emerged as India’s top run-scorer in the WTC. In 32 matches, Rohit has amassed 2552 runs at a remarkable average of 50. His contributions include 9 centuries and 7 half-centuries. It was during the first cycle of the WTC that Rohit took up the role of opening in Tests, which has been a game-changer for him and the team. His consistent performances at the top of the order have been pivotal for India.
2. Virat Kohli – 2235 Runs
Former captain Virat Kohli stands second on this list, having played 36 matches and 42 innings. Kohli’s 2235 runs have come at an average of 39.21, and he has contributed with 4 centuries and 10 half-centuries. Kohli’s absence from some important matches, like the series against England due to the birth of his son, may have slightly affected his overall numbers, but his impact on the team remains undeniable.
3. Cheteshwar Pujara – 1769 Runs
Despite being out of the Indian Test squad currently, Cheteshwar Pujara was a key figure for India during the initial phase of the WTC. Known for his patient and resilient style, Pujara’s 1769 runs came from 35 matches, though his average was below 30. His sole century during this period might not reflect his usual standards, but his contribution, especially in India’s memorable win in Australia, is unforgettable.
4. Ajinkya Rahane – 1589 Runs
Another veteran who finds himself out of the Indian team is Ajinkya Rahane. The former vice-captain scored 1589 runs in 29 matches, averaging 34.54. Rahane was instrumental in India’s series win in Australia during the 2019-20 season, where he led the team in Virat Kohli’s absence. Despite his recent struggles, his contributions in the WTC remain significant.
5. Rishabh Pant – 1575 Runs
Even though Rishabh Pant has not played a Test match since 2022, he remains one of the top five Indian run-scorers in the WTC. Pant’s 1575 runs in 24 matches have come at an impressive average of 41.44, with a strike rate of 73.56. Known for his fearless batting and game-changing abilities, Pant has also smashed 3 centuries during this period. His aggressive style has often turned matches in India’s favor.
The performance of these players has been crucial in India’s WTC campaigns, even though some, like Pujara and Rahane, have found themselves out of the current Test squad. With India looking to build for the future, it remains to be seen if these veterans will make a return or if the new crop of players will take over the mantle.
