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To be able to score runs and on a consistent basis is something that every batter relishes regardless of the format of the game. However, the Test cricket format requires batters to be on their feet and maintain high levels of patience, perseverance and endurance to get the runs for their side. The red-ball format has seen few players excelling and getting the runs on a consistent basis. In this list, we take a look at the Top 5 run scorers in Test cricket history-

5. Alastair Cook – 12472 runs

The former English skipper was regarded as an astute cricketer in the Test format. Alastair Cook got massive runs during his stint with the national side in red-ball cricket. In 161 Test matches, he amassed 12472 runs at an average of 45.35 including 33 centuries and 57 half-centuries. Back in 2017, he also became the youngest cricketer to complete 10000 Test runs surpassing India great Sachin Tendulkar.

4. Rahul Dravid – 13288 runs

Affectionately known as the ‘Wall’ by his fans for his unique way of playing Test cricket, Dravid scored 13288 runs in 286 innings at an average of 52.31. This includes 36 centuries and 63 fifties in his Test career with a high score of 270 and also holds the record for facing most balls in the longest form of the game.

3. Jacques Kallis – 13289 runs

The South Africa great Jacques Kallis, accumulated 13289 runs at an average of 55.37 in 280 innings. In the red-ball game, He has second-most centuries (45) to his name and also has 58 fifties during his stint with the Proteas in the Test cricket.

2. Ricky Ponting – 13378 runs

The former ODI World Cup Winner is till date known to be a great in all forms of the game. He takes the second position in the record tally of highest run-scorers in Test cricket. He got 13378 runs in 287 innings at an average of 51.85 including 41 centuries and 62 half-centuries. 

1. Sachin Tendulkar – 15921 runs

The cricketing legend- Sachin Tendulkar tops the charts in the list of highest run-scorers in Test cricket. Interestingly, he is the only player to be part of 200 Test games wherein he aggregated 15921 runs at an average of 53.78. He also got 51 Test tons and 68 fifties in his career.