Pakistan captain Babar Azam has topped the list of players with the highest batting averages in Test cricket in 2026. He leads the rankings among batters who have played at least 10 innings this year.
Babar has maintained an impressive average of 50.55, placing him ahead of several internationally recognised batters. England’s Harry Brook occupies second place with an average of 46.50. He has scored 558 runs across 12 innings.
Bangladesh’s Mushfiqur Rahim stands third with an average of 44.16. Australia’s Travis Head follows in fourth position with 42.09. England’s Joe Root completes the top five with an average of 41.75.
The rankings highlight Babar’s consistent performances in the longest format. His average remains the highest among the qualifying players in 2026.
Highest Test Batting Averages in 2026
The top five batters have represented four different cricketing nations. Pakistan currently leads the rankings through Babar’s performances.
The rankings are based on players who have completed at least 10 innings during the year.
| Rank | Player | Country | Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Babar Azam | Pakistan | 50.55 |
| 2 | Harry Brook | England | 46.50 |
| 3 | Mushfiqur Rahim | Bangladesh | 44.16 |
| 4 | Travis Head | Australia | 42.09 |
| 5 | Joe Root | England | 41.75 |
Babar’s latest contribution came during the opening day of Pakistan’s first Test against Sri Lanka. The match was played at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
The Pakistani batter scored 50 runs from 58 deliveries. His innings included seven boundaries before he lost his wicket.
He also built a 69-run partnership with debutant Mohammad Taha. However, Sri Lankan fast bowler Dilshan Madushanka dismissed him. Wicketkeeper Kusal Mendis completed the catch.
The half-century marked Babar’s fifth Test fifty of the year. However, he is still waiting to score a century in the format.
Babar Continues His Wait for a Test Century
Despite his strong batting average, Babar has faced a prolonged century drought in Test cricket. He has now completed 41 consecutive Test innings without scoring a hundred.
His last Test century came against New Zealand in December 2022. Since then, he has continued contributing with several half-centuries.
During the Rawalpindi Test, Babar also achieved another career milestone. He crossed 7,000 runs in first-class cricket.
Meanwhile, Pakistan finished the opening day at 281 runs for five wickets. Debutants Tayyab Arif and Mohammad Taha made valuable contributions.
Tayyab scored 57 runs, while Mohammad Taha added 51. Saud Shakeel remained unbeaten on 57 at the end of play.
Bad light forced an early close to the opening day’s proceedings. Pakistan will look to build on its position during the remaining sessions.
In other related news also read Babar Azam Achieves Historic Milestone during Second Test match
Babar’s position at the top of the 2026 Test batting average rankings reflects his performances throughout the year. His consistency has kept him ahead of several prominent international batters.
