Batting in Test cricket is widely regarded as one of the toughest challenges for any cricketer. Unlike limited-overs formats, the red-ball game demands batters to adapt to bowlers who have the freedom to experiment with lines and lengths over extended periods. Every aspiring batter dreams of accumulating runs and contributing significantly to their nation’s success. Over the years, Test cricket, the oldest and most prestigious format, has witnessed legendary batsmen who have excelled under pressure and guided their teams to imposing totals.
Top five batsmen with most 50+ scores in test cricket
5. Rahul Dravid – 99 times
Former Indian captain Rahul Dravid is considered among the finest-ever batters to play test cricket. Known for his impeccable patience and determination, Rahul Dravid amassed 50+ scores 99 times in his test career. Nicknamed “The Wall” for his solid defence, Dravid scored 36 centuries and 69 half-centuries in his test career. Dravid retired from test cricket in 2012 with a batting average of 52.31.
4. Joe Root – 100 times
Modern-day great Joe Root made his test debut in 2012. Over the next dozen years, Root climbed the ladder to become England’s greatest test batsman, scoring the most runs and centuries for his country. The former England captain has so far crossed the 50-run mark 100 times in his career. Root’s impressive batting record includes 35 centuries and 65 half-centuries. His batting average of 51 is one of the best among active cricketers.
3. Ricky Ponting – 103 times
Former Australian captain Ricky Ponting crossed the half-century mark 103 times in his test career. Mostly batting at No. 3, Ponting was known for dominating the opposition with his aggressive stroke play. He is one of the greatest batsmen to have played the game. Ricky Ponting bid farewell to test cricket in 2012, leaving behind a remarkable legacy which included 41 centuries and 62 half-centuries.
2. Jacques Kallis – 103 times
Regarded by many as the greatest ever all-rounder the game has seen, Kallis crossed the 50-run mark 103 times in his test illustrious career. Kallis, with his tally of 45 centuries, also holds the record of scoring the most test hundreds for South Africa. Kallis amassed 13289 runs with a batting average of 55.37 during his 18-year test career. Additionally, he took 292 test wickets.
1. Sachin Tendulkar – 119 times
Sachin Tendulkar holds the record for the most 50+ scores in test cricket. Tendulkar crossed the 50-run mark 119 times in his test career. He notched up 51 test centuries and 68 half-centuries. He also holds the record of scoring the most international centuries with his tally of 100. Sachin retired from test cricket in 2013 with an outstanding average of 53.78.
| Rank | Batsman | 50+ Scores |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | Rahul Dravid | 99 |
| 4 | Joe Root | 100 |
| 3 | Ricky Ponting | 103 |
| 3 | Jacques Kallis | 103 |
| 1 | Sachin Tendulkar | 119 |