In the world of Test cricket, reaching the 13,000-run mark is a big deal, showing off a batter’s skill and persistence. Only a few players have hit this milestone. Recently, Joe Root joined the ranks of these legends while playing in Zimbabwe. Here’s a look at the five fastest batters to hit 13,000 runs in Test cricket.
5. Joe Root (279 Innings)
Joe Root recently reached 13,000 Test runs during a match against Zimbabwe, which started on May 22, 2025. It was his 279th innings, and he scored 34 runs at Trent Bridge to cross this mark. Root has a solid average of 50.80 and has notched up 36 centuries.
4. Rahul Dravid (277 Innings)
Known as The Wall, Rahul Dravid hit 13,000 Test runs against the West Indies at Wankhede Stadium on November 22, 2011. He made his Test debut on June 20, 1996, and took him 160 matches and 277 innings over 15 years to reach this milestone.
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3. Ricky Ponting (275 Innings)
Ricky Ponting crossed the 13,000-run mark during a Test match against India in Adelaide on January 24, 2012. He achieved this in 275 innings during his career, which began on December 8, 1995. Ponting was known for his aggressive style and strong batting.
2. Jacques Kallis (269 Innings)
Jacques Kallis reached 13,000 runs against New Zealand in Cape Town on January 2, 2013. He debuted on December 14, 1995, and took 159 matches and 269 innings to get there, standing out as a top all-rounder in his time.
1. Sachin Tendulkar (266 Innings)
Sachin Tendulkar, known as the ‘Master Blaster,’ was the first to hit 13,000 runs in Test cricket and did it the fastest. He achieved this milestone on January 17, 2010, against Bangladesh in Chattogram, almost 20 years after his debut on November 15, 1989. It took him 163 matches and 266 innings, reflecting his remarkable consistency.
