Test cricket, known as the most challenging format of the game, tests a player’s patience, skill, and character. Achieving success in this arena is a remarkable accomplishment, and only a select few have reached the pinnacle of excellence, showcasing the best ICC ratings in Test cricket.
The ICC Test ratings have long served as a benchmark for measuring greatness in this demanding format. Over the years, some players have consistently delivered outstanding performances, earning remarkable ratings that highlight their brilliance and the best ICC ratings in Test cricket.
List of 5 Players with the Best ICC Ratings in Test Cricket
| Rank | Player | Rating (Points) | Date Achieved | Series/Performance | Runs Scored |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Steve Smith | 947 | December 30, 2017 | 2017-18 Ashes Series | 687 (7 innings) |
| 2 | Virat Kohli | 937 | August 22, 2018 | Test series against England | 593 (5 matches) |
| 3 | Marnus Labuschagne | 937 | December 12, 2022 | Test series against West Indies | 502 (2 matches) |
| 4 | Joe Root | 923 | July 5, 2022 | Test series against India | 737 (5 matches) |
| 5 | Kane Williamson | 919 | January 7, 2021 | Test series against Pakistan | 421 (3 matches) |
5. Kane Williamson
Peak Rating: 919 points
Date Achieved: January 7, 2021
Kane Williamson, a master of modern batting, is celebrated for his elegant technique and adaptability. In January 2021, during a series against Pakistan, the New Zealand skipper reached his career-high ICC Test rating of 919 points.
Across 100+ Test matches, Williamson has scored over 8,700 runs, including 32 centuries. His leadership and consistent performances have been instrumental in New Zealand’s Test success, highlighted by their victory in the inaugural ICC World Test Championship.
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4. Joe Root
Peak Rating: 923 points
Date Achieved: July 5, 2022
Joe Root, England’s batting stalwart and former captain, hit his peak ICC Test rating of 923 points in July 2022. This milestone came during a Test series against India, where Root scored an incredible 737 runs across five matches.
Renowned for his reliability and composure, particularly in English conditions, Root has amassed over 12,000 Test runs in his illustrious career. His rating reflects his immense contribution to England’s cricketing history.
3. Marnus Labuschagne
Peak Rating: 937 points
Date Achieved: December 12, 2022
Marnus Labuschagne, who initially gained attention as a substitute fielder, has transformed into one of the most consistent batsmen in Test cricket. Known for achieving one of the best ICC ratings in Test cricket, he reached an impressive ICC Test rating of 937 points in December 2022.
Labuschagne showcased exceptional form during a two-match Test series against the West Indies, amassing 502 runs, including a double century and two centuries. His performances, which reflect the best ICC ratings in Test cricket, have secured him a place among the elite cricketers in the format.
2. Virat Kohli
Peak Rating: 937 points
Date Achieved: August 22, 2018
Virat Kohli had an unforgettable year in 2018, highlighted by his exceptional performances in Test cricket. During this period, he scored an incredible 11 Test centuries and achieved his best ICC ratings in Test cricket, reaching a peak of 937 points. This milestone came after a stellar series against England, where he scored 593 runs at an impressive average of 59.30.
Kohli’s aggressive leadership style and ability to perform under tough conditions cemented his reputation as one of India’s finest Test batsmen. His dominance during this era showcased why he achieved the best ICC ratings in Test cricket, marking the pinnacle of his career.
1. Steve Smith
Peak Rating: 947 points
Date Achieved: December 30, 2017
Steve Smith is known for being one of the most unorthodox yet consistent batsmen in the history of Test cricket. He achieved an extraordinary ICC Test rating of 947 points in December 2017 during the Ashes series against England, marking one of the best ICC ratings in Test cricket history.
In that series, Smith scored an incredible 687 runs across seven innings, averaging 137.40. His unmatched consistency and unique batting technique have earned him the reputation of being one of the toughest players to dismiss in Test cricket, further cementing his position among those with the best ICC ratings in Test cricket.
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