The World Test Championship finals are the ultimate stage for Test cricket’s elite. Only a select few have risen to the occasion, leaving an indelible mark with their batting. Here, we spotlight the five players who have scored the most runs in WTC finals, their standout moments, and the impact they had for their teams.
1. Ajinkya Rahane – 199 Runs
- Country: India
- Matches: 2 (2021, 2023)
- Innings: 4
- Average: 49.75
Notable Performances
Ajinkya Rahane is at the top of the highest run-score in WTC finals. In the 2021 final, he scored 49 in the first dig and although he failed in the second, he showed a lot of character.
Impact
Rahane’s calm head under pressure and comfort in taking blow after blow was an anchor for India in both finals. Even with India losing both games, he was key to help keep the game competitive.
2. Travis Head – 181 Runs
- Country: Australia
- Matches: 1 (2023)
- Innings: 2
- Average: 90.5
Notable Performances
The highest individual score in a WTC final is Travis Head’s 163 in the first innings of the 2023 final against India. His powerful hitting devastated India’s bowlers and established a massive score for Australia. He returned to scoring 18 in the second innings- while that would be nothing to write home about, Head’s 163 was enough to earn him Player of the Match.
Impact
Head’s innings was the defining factor in Australia’s victory. It showcased his ability to dominate world-class attacks and provided the foundation for Australia’s championship win.
3. Steve Smith – 155 Runs
- Country: Australia
- Matches: 1 (2023)
- Innings: 2
- Average: 77.5
Notable Performances
Steve Smith scored 121 in true grandeur in the first innings of the 2023 final, joining Travis Head to recover from early trouble for Australia. He then belted 34 quickly in the second innings, helping Australia set down an unassailable target.
Impact
Smith’s experience and technique were on show in all their glory. His century proved to be a shot in the arm of his class and a crucial contribution to Australia’s total domination of India.
4. Rohit Sharma – 122 Runs
- Country: India
- Matches: 2 (2021, 2023)
- Innings: 4
- Average: 30.5
Notable performances
Rohit Sharma gave solid starts for India in both finals. In 2021, he scored 34 and 30, bravely with the opening partnerships. In 2023, he made a quick 43 in the second innings as it was trying to push the momentum in a dying chase.
Impact
With his contributions at the top, his captaincy helped set the tone. He could never quite convert an innings once he got a start but his leadership and intent were never in question.
5. Virat Kohli – 120 Runs
- Country: India
- Matches: 2 (2021, 2023)
- Innings: 4
- Average: 30
Notable Performances
In both matches, Virat Kohli was unable to find form, having scores of 44 & 13 in 2021 and 14 & 49 in 2023. His 49 in the second innings of the final was India’s best score in that innings, however it was not nearly enough to cause change in the match.
Impact
Although Kohli struggled with his runs, on occasions he was still a threat with the bat at least while he was visible at the crease. Kohli wore his heart on his sleeve with his determination and fight in particular during the second innings in 2023. His commitment to a team cause displayed his infatuation with an Indian victory.
Conclusion
The WTC finals are high-stakes events where only the best can survive. Ajinkya Rahane’s consistency, the flashes of brilliance from Travis Head, and the class of Steve Smith have all stood out. For India, Rahane, Rohit, and Kohli were reliable even if the results were not in their favour. The performances by these players alone do not just represent individual brilliance, but also represent composure and toughness on the biggest stage of cricket.
After watching these 5 players, cricket fans and sport enthusiasts will take away wonderful memories filled with the ebbs and flows of cricket which a Test match produces.
Written By Smita Singh
