Highest average as opener in men’s Tests
Cricketers often dream of representing their national side in the longest format of the game. However, Test cricket can often be tough trade for cricketers, especially opening batters, who do the thankless job of tackling the new ball. The opening batters are entrusted to provide a solid start to their side in testing conditions and don’t often get the plaudits they deserve. On that note, we list the batters with the highest batting average while opening the batting (min. 30 innings).
Bruce Mitchell (South Africa) – 56.90
Former South African opener Bruce Mitchell was widely regarded as the finest batter to come out of the country. The gritty opening batter made his debut for the national team in 1929 and never missed a Test for his side for nearly two decades. Mitchell amassed 3471 runs in 80 innings during his illustrious career, and 2390 of those came in 48 innings at an average of 56.90 while opening the batting for South Africa.
Rohit Sharma (India) – 57.65
The inclusion of India’s all-format skipper in this list might surprise a few. The stylish opener is often associated with his exceptional qualities in white-ball cricket. Rohit Sharma had to wait for a while before getting his Test cap. But the flamboyant cricket has proved his doubters wrong in the last couple of years. He has emerged as India’s best batter in the longest format of the game. While Rohit has played in several positions in the Test team, he has been prolific at the top order, scoring 1672 runs in 31 innings at an impressive average of 57.65.
Herbert Sutcliffe (England) – 61.10
Herbert Sutcliffe scored more than 50,000 runs in First class cricket. He was an iconic opening batter in domestic cricket. Sutcliffe scored 4555 runs for the national team. He achieved this in 84 innings with 16 centuries and 23 half-centuries. Sutcliffe was known for his sheer concentration and determination at the crease. He was a diligent opener with impressive overall stats. Out of his 4555 runs, 4522 came while opening the batting at an astonishing average of 61.10.
