In the world of cricket, adapting to both the longest and the shortest formats of the game is no easy feat. Test cricket demands patience, technique, and mental toughness, while T20 cricket calls for aggression, innovation, and quick decision-making. Over the years, only a few exceptional players have truly managed to shine in both formats. These are the rare cricketers who’ve shown that class is permanent—regardless of the number of overs.

In this blog, we take a look at the top players who excelled in both Tests and T20s, proving their dominance across formats and eras.

1. Virat Kohli – The Chase Master of All Formats

When you think of consistency and class across formats, Virat Kohli is the first name that comes to mind. His record in Test cricket is exceptional, with over 8,500 runs at an average above 49, including 29 centuries. In the T20I format, Kohli has been India’s go-to batter with 4,000+ runs and a remarkable average over 50—an incredible feat in a format known for unpredictability.

Kohli's ability to pace his innings, adapt to different match situations, and lead the team with passion has made him one of the top players who excelled in both Tests and T20s.

2. Ben Stokes – The All-Round Hero

Ben Stokes is England’s heartbeat across all formats. His heroic innings in the 2019 Headingley Test and his clutch performances in ICC T20 World Cups make him an all-format superstar.

In Tests, he’s scored over 6,000 runs and taken more than 200 wickets. In T20s, he’s played match-winning knocks under pressure, showcasing his power-hitting and composure. Stokes has proven time and again that he's a true match-winner, regardless of the format.

3. David Warner – Explosive and Consistent

David Warner burst onto the scene as a T20 specialist, but soon became one of the world’s best Test openers. Known for his aggressive batting style, Warner has scored over 8,500 Test runs with 26 centuries, often giving Australia blazing starts.

In T20 cricket, he has been a mainstay for both Australia and in various leagues around the world. With his explosive power, quick footwork, and smart game awareness, Warner is easily one of the top players who excelled in both Tests and T20s.

4. Kane Williamson – The Calm Maestro

The New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson is the embodiment of class and calm. In Test cricket, he has over 8,000 runs and has played many marathon innings under pressure. His ability to anchor and grind has been vital for New Zealand’s rise in red-ball cricket.

In T20s, Williamson brings balance and stability. He may not be the most explosive batter, but his ability to adapt, rotate strike, and finish games makes him extremely valuable. His calm captaincy has also been a key to New Zealand's consistency in both formats.

5. Babar Azam – Pakistan’s Crown Jewel

Babar Azam has been a beacon of hope for Pakistan cricket in the modern era. His elegant stroke play and solid technique make him a formidable Test batter, with over 4,000 runs and an average consistently above 45.

In T20s, Babar is one of the top-ranked batters in the world. He has scored thousands of runs with impressive consistency and class. His ability to play traditional cricketing shots even in T20s shows why he is one of the top players who excelled in both Tests and T20s.

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6. Jos Buttler – The Explosive Game-Changer

While Jos Buttler is known for his destructive T20 hitting, he’s also played crucial knocks in Test cricket, especially during his stint as England’s vice-captain. Though his Test average may not be as high as others, his ability to counterattack and shift momentum has often helped England in tough situations.

In T20s, he is a beast. With multiple centuries and explosive starts, Buttler has dominated bowlers across the globe. He is a key player for England in white-ball cricket and one of the most feared hitters in the IPL as well.

7. Shakib Al Hasan – The Bangladeshi Legend

When it comes to all-round contributions in both formats, Shakib Al Hasan stands tall. He has been Bangladesh’s most consistent performer in Tests and T20s for over a decade.

Shakib has scored over 4,000 Test runs and taken more than 240 wickets, making him one of the best all-rounders in Test cricket. In T20s, he continues to be a match-winner with both bat and ball. His versatility makes him one of the most impactful players in world cricket.

8. Ravindra Jadeja – India’s Utility King

Ravindra Jadeja has quietly become one of the most important players for India across formats. In Tests, his left-arm spin, improved batting, and electric fielding make him a three-dimensional threat.

Jadeja averages over 35 with the bat and has taken more than 250 wickets in Tests. In T20s, he’s a reliable lower-order hitter and a game-changing bowler. His all-round brilliance places him among the top players who excelled in both Tests and T20s.

What Makes These Players Special?

Excelling in both Tests and T20s requires a rare combination of skill, adaptability, and mental strength. These players have mastered the art of:

Switching mindsets from patient build-ups to explosive finishes.

Handling pressure in both slow-burning Tests and high-octane T20s.

Maintaining fitness and form across different conditions and schedules.

Final Thoughts

Cricket is evolving, but the best players evolve with it. The top players who excelled in both Tests and T20s have not only mastered two extremely different formats but have also inspired millions of fans with their versatility. Whether it's grinding it out on a Day 5 pitch or hitting sixes in the last over, these cricketers have done it all.

They are a true reflection of the modern game—where tradition meets innovation, and skill meets speed. As fans, we’re lucky to witness such greatness unfold in both whites and colored jerseys.

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Top Players Who Excelled in Both Tests and T20s