Pat Cummins’s unit will step into this game as defending champions, having clinched the 2023 WTC final by defeating India.
In light of the forthcoming high-stakes match, let’s examine Australian hitters who have scored 3,000 or more runs in WTC history.
Top Australian Run-Scorers in the World Test Championship (WTC)
Australia has always been a dominant force in Test cricket, and the World Test Championship (WTC) has only reaffirmed the prowess of its top batters. Here’s a look at four Australian stars who have made a significant mark with the bat in the WTC era.
4. Travis Head – 3,056 Runs
Travis Head, known for his fearless and aggressive batting, has become a vital cog in Australia’s Test line-up. The 2021–22 Ashes series at home marked a turning point in his career, reviving his place in the squad with a powerful comeback.
Having played 48 WTC matches, Head has scored 3,056 runs at an impressive average of 41.29. His tally includes eight centuries, 13 half-centuries, and he boasts a remarkable strike rate of 73.23 – the highest among Australia’s top WTC run-getters.
One of his standout moments came in the 2023 WTC Final, where he hammered a match-winning century, proving his mettle on the biggest stage.
3. Usman Khawaja – 3,165 Runs
Usman Khawaja has been enjoying a fairytale return to Test cricket since rejoining the Australian squad during the 2021–22 Ashes. The experienced left-hander has added solidity to the top order with his calm and composed approach.
He has racked up 3,165 runs in 39 WTC games, averaging a brilliant 48.69. His run tally includes eight centuries and 13 fifties, and he recently celebrated a career milestone by scoring his maiden Test double-century.
Khawaja’s consistency and maturity have been instrumental in Australia’s strong Test performances in recent years.
2. Steve Smith – 4,072 Runs
A modern-day legend, Steve Smith remains one of the most prolific scorers in WTC history. With an unorthodox style and unwavering concentration, Smith continues to be Australia’s batting backbone.
In 52 matches, Smith has accumulated 4,072 runs at a stellar average of 50.90, including 13 centuries and 17 half-centuries. His highest score in the WTC stands at 211.
Smith also holds a special record — he scored the most runs in a bilateral Test series during the WTC era, smashing 774 runs in the 2019 Ashes series.
1. Marnus Labuschagne – 4,186 Runs
At the top of this elite list stands Marnus Labuschagne, Australia’s current No. 3 batter and a revelation in the longest format. Since his breakout in 2019, Labuschagne has cemented his spot with consistent and classy performances.
He has played 52 matches, scoring 4,186 runs at an average of 48.67. His highest score is 215, and he has registered 11 centuries and 22 fifties.
Interestingly, only Joe Root (5,543 runs) has scored more WTC runs than Labuschagne and Smith, showcasing the elite company Labuschagne now keeps.