Joe Root has now etched his name among the greatest cricketers in history by surpassing the 13,000-run milestone during the ongoing tour of Zimbabwe. This article highlights five legendary players who have also reached this remarkable feat in Test cricket, showcasing their journeys and contributions to the sport.
Top 5 Cricketers to Reach 13,000 Test Runs
Sachin Tendulkar
Regarded as the 'Master Blaster', Sachin Tendulkar tops this list, achieving the 13,000-run mark in just 266 innings. He reached this landmark on January 17, 2010, 20 years and 78 days after his debut on November 15, 1989, during a match against Bangladesh in Chattogram.
Jacques Kallis
Jacques Kallis ranks second, reaching his 13,000th Test run against New Zealand in Cape Town on January 2, 2013. He accomplished this in 159 matches and 269 innings over a career spanning 17 years and 19 days, starting on December 14, 1995. Kallis was known for his solid technique and ability to anchor innings under pressure.
Ricky Ponting
Ricky Ponting made his mark by surpassing 13,000 Test runs against India in Adelaide on January 24, 2012. He achieved this in 162 matches and 275 innings, having started his career on December 8, 1995. His aggressive style and powerful pull shots made him a formidable presence in the batting lineup.
Rahul Dravid
Known as 'The Wall', Rahul Dravid reached the 13,000-run milestone at Wankhede Stadium against the West Indies on November 22, 2011. He made his debut in June 1996 and achieved this in 160 matches and 277 innings over 15 years and 155 days.
Joe Root
Joe Root recently joined this elite group after scoring his 13,000th Test run for England against Zimbabwe in the Only Test held from May 22 to 26, 2025. He achieved this milestone in his 279th Test innings, scoring 34 runs at Trent Bridge. Currently, Root boasts an impressive average of 50.80 and has accumulated 36 centuries in his Test career.
