Fastest 9000 Runs in Test
Test cricket demands unwavering skill, resilience, and the ability to thrive under pressure and making 9000 runs in this format signifies entry into an exclusive club reserved for batting legends who have etched their names in history.
As of February 11, 2024, there are 17 batsmen who have crossed the 9000-run mark in Test cricket. Kumar Sangakkara holds the record for the fastest 9000 runs in test, achieving it in just 172 innings.
Top 10 Batsmen With The Fastest 9000 Runs in Test Cricket
Here is a detailed overview of the top 10 batsmen with the fastest 9000 runs in test cricket:
10. Sunil Gavaskar (India)
Sunil Gavaskar, the original Little Master from India, achieved 9000 Test runs in 192 innings. Gavaskar’s impeccable technique and ability to play long innings made him a formidable opponent for any bowling attack.
He reached this milestone against Australia in Adelaide on December 13, 1985, setting the benchmark for future generations of Indian batsmen.
9. Jacques Kallis (South Africa)
Jacques Kallis, the legendary all-rounder from South Africa, reached 9000 Test runs in 188 innings. Kallis was a complete cricketer, excelling with both bat and ball throughout his illustrious career.
He achieved this milestone against New Zealand in Johannesburg on November 8, 2007, solidifying his status as one of the game’s greatest all-rounders.
8. Younis Khan (Pakistan)
Younis Khan made 9000 Test runs in 184 innings. He reached this milestone against England in Dubai on October 22, 2015, showcasing his class and determination.
Younis Khan was known for his calm demeanor and ability to bat under pressure. He thrived in crunch situations, often scoring crucial runs when his team needed them most. This quality earned him the reputation of a true match-winner for Pakistan.
7. Sachin Tendulkar (India)
Sachin Tendulkar reached 9000 Test runs in 179 innings. Tendulkar’s masterful technique and unparalleled consistency made him a cricketing icon.
He achieved this milestone against Australia in Sydney on January 2, 2004, etching his name in the annals of cricketing history.
His consistency was legendary. He scored 51 centuries in Test cricket, the most by any batsman at the time, demonstrating his ability to score big runs repeatedly.
6. Mahela Jayawardene (Sri Lanka)
Mahela Jayawardene, the stylish batsman from Sri Lanka, reached 9000 Test runs in 178 innings. Known for his elegant stroke play and ability to anchor the innings, Jayawardene was a vital cog in the Sri Lankan batting lineup.
He achieved this milestone against India in Ahmedabad on November 16, 2009, leaving a lasting legacy in the cricketing world.
5. Ricky Ponting (Australia)
Ricky Ponting scored 9000 runs in test cricket in 177 innings. Ponting’s aggressive style and impeccable timing made him one of the most feared batsmen of his generation.
He reached this milestone against England in Brisbane on November 23, 2006, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.
His powerful strokeplay and exceptional hand-eye coordination earned him the reputation as one of the most feared batsmen of his generation. Bowlers dreaded facing him, knowing he could unleash a flurry of boundaries at any moment.
4. Brian Lara (West Indies)
Brian Lara reached 9000 Test runs in 177 innings. Known for his aggressive stroke play and ability to dominate bowlers, Lara left an indelible mark on the game.
He achieved this milestone against South Africa in Cape Town on January 2, 2004, captivating cricket fans with his breathtaking innings.
He had the ability to single-handedly change the course of a match with his aggressive batting. His innings often put immense pressure on the opposition and instilled fear in the hearts of bowlers.
3. Rahul Dravid (India)
Rahul Dravid of India amassed 9000 Test runs in 176 innings. He achieved this milestone against West Indies in Kingston on June 30, 2006, showcasing his grit and determination.
Dravid was renowned for his rock-solid technique, characterized by meticulous footwork, a strong defense, and an unyielding temperament. He was known as “The Wall” for his ability to absorb pressure and build crucial innings.
His mental strength was unparalleled. He thrived in challenging situations, often playing marathon innings that turned the tide of matches for India. This quality earned him immense respect from teammates, opponents, and fans alike.
2. Steve Smith (Australia)
Steve Smith reached 9000 Test runs in just 174 innings. His remarkable consistency and unorthodox style have baffled bowlers worldwide.
Smith achieved this milestone against England at Lord’s on June 28, 2023, solidifying his place among the game’s greats.
1. Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka)
Kumar Sangakkara from Sri Lanka made 9000 runs in Test cricket in 172 innings. He accomplished this milestone against Pakistan in Sharjah on November 3, 2011.
His ability to bat for long periods and grind down bowling attacks was unmatched. He was known as the “Mr. Dependable” of Sri Lankan batting, consistently scoring crucial runs across all conditions.
His elegant style and consistent performances earned him admiration and respect from fans and players worldwide. He was a true ambassador for the game of cricket.
Fastest to Reach 9000 Runs in Test Cricket | Top 17 Batsmen
| Sr. No. | Player | Opposition | Ground | Match Date | Matches | Innings | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kumar Sangakkara (SL) | v Pakistan | Sharjah | 3-Nov-11 | 103 | 172 | |
| 2 | Steve Smith (AUS) | v England | Lord's | 28-Jun-23 | 99 | 174 | |
| 3 | Rahul Dravid (IND) | v West Indies | Kingston | 30-Jun-06 | 104 | 176 | |
| 4 | Brian Lara (WI) | v South Africa | Cape Town | 2-Jan-04 | 101 | 177 | |
| 5 | Ricky Ponting (AUS) | v England | Brisbane | 23-Nov-06 | 106 | 177 | |
| 6 | Mahela Jayawardene (SL) | v India | Ahmedabad | 16-Nov-09 | 108 | 178 | |
| 7 | Sachin Tendulkar (IND) | v Australia | Sydney | 2-Jan-04 | 111 | 179 | |
| 8 | Younis Khan (PAK) | v England | Dubai (DSC) | 22-Oct-15 | 103 | 184 | |
| 9 | Jacques Kallis (ICC/SA) | v New Zealand | Johannesburg | 8-Nov-07 | 110 | 188 | |
| 10 | Sunil Gavaskar (IND) | v Australia | Adelaide | 13-Dec-85 | 110 | 192 | |
| 11 | Graem Smith (ICC/SA) | v Pakistan | Dubai (DSC) | 23-Oct-13 | 112 | 195 | |
| 12 | Joe Root (ENG) | v India | Lord's | 12-Aug-21 | 107 | 196 | |
| 13 | Alastair Cook (ENG) | v New Zealand | Leeds | 29-May-15 | 114 | 204 | |
| 14 | Hashim Amla (SA) | v Sri Lanka | Colombo (SSC) | 20-Jul-18 | 119 | 204 | |
| 15 | Allan Border (AUS) | v West Indies | Kingston | 1-Mar-91 | 121 | 207 | |
| 16 | Steve Waugh (AUS) | v England | Birmingham | 5-Jul-01 | 136 | 216 | |
| 17 | Shivnarine Chanderpaul (WI) | v Sri Lanka | Galle | 15-Nov-10 | 127 | 216 |
