It is often stated that Test Cricket is the most exciting format of the sport. This has been proven time and again, with nailing biting chases, historic wins, thrilling saves on day five and out of the box strategies.

The World Test Championship has taken the longest format to the next level as each match becomes even more competitive and riveting to watch. With several Test matches played in 2021, the red ball format witnessed a lot of records being made and broken across the world as well as an outpour of individual performances.

As we look back at the year gone by, here is the Team-wise Best Test batter of 2021:

1. West Indies &#8211; Kyle Mayers

<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-485252" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2021/02/Kyle-Mayers.jpg" alt="Kyle Mayers" width="640" height="400" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-485252" class="wp-caption-text">Kyle Mayers. (Photo by MUNIR UZ ZAMAN/AFP via Getty Images)</figcaption>

It is every cricketer’s dream to have a memorable debut match. A debut worthy of recognition; one that announces you to the big stage. While all debutants try to establish this, only a few succeed. February 7th 2021, announced the arrival of a West Indies hero who took his team home on his debut &#8211; <a href="https://www.crictracker.com/bangladesh-vs-west-indies-2021-1st-test-kyle-mayers-creates-new-world-records-debutants-rule-the-test-and-more-stats/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Kyle Mayers</a>.

The Test vs Bangladesh saw the middle order batter score an unbeaten 210, with the help of 20 boundaries and seven huge sixes, making him the architect of the highest successful Test run-chase in Asia. He became a part of the elite club of batters to score a double century in the fourth innings of a Test match and just the sixth batter to score a double century on Test debut.

While this might seem like a one-time wonder knock, Kyle Mayers continued his stellar form in the following matches too. He ended 2021 being the second-highest run-getter of the Windies Test setup averaging 35.33. With a tally of 636 runs in the 10 matches, Mayers will aim to be the highest run-getter next year.

2. Pakistan &#8211; Fawad Alam

<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-435855" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2020/08/Fawad-Alam-2.jpg" alt="Fawad Alam" width="640" height="400" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-435855" class="wp-caption-text">Fawad Alam . (Photo Source: Getty Images)</figcaption>

The world of sports has witnessed many comebacks in the past. Players coming back from injuries after missing out a season or even breakthrough performances after going through rough patches. What we haven’t witnessed, is a team going back to a player excluded from the squad for 11 long years who then becomes the steel of their batting order. <a href="https://www.crictracker.com/scoring-five-centuries-in-five-different-countries-is-a-thing-of-honour-for-me-fawad-alam/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Fawad Alam</a>, the Pakistani middle-order batter has been Pakistan&#8217;s X factor this year.

Out of the 9 matches played this year, Alam has gone on to score the maximum centuries in Test cricket for Pakistan in 2021 (3) and a half-century. Along with his other key performances across 13 innings, he has scored 571 runs off the 1149 balls he faced. With the highest score of 140 this year, and being not out thrice, he has only looked at grabbing each opportunity with both hands.

A great striker of the ball and a batsman capable of building on the innings, Fawad has been Pakistan&#8217;s rock in the middle order. While Alam may be 36 years old, it hasn’t stopped him from exploiting what comes his way and making the most of the second chance he has received.

2021 has been a successful year for the Pakistan Test team having won 7 of their 9 matches and Fawad will surely look at making 2022 a greater year not only for himself but also for Pakistan cricket.

3. South Africa &#8211; Dean Elgar

<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-364191" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2019/10/Dean-Elgar.jpg" alt="Dean Elgar" width="640" height="400" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-364191" class="wp-caption-text">Dean Elgar. (Photo Source: Twitter)</figcaption>

The Proteas haven’t played a lot of Test cricket this year. In their 5 matches, there was an ongoing tussle between the openers to be the country’s best Test batsman this year. As we approach the dusk of 2021, it was none other than captain <a href="https://www.crictracker.com/south-africa-have-the-upper-hand-but-india-are-ranked-no-1-dean-elgar-ahead-of-three-match-test-series/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Dean Elgar</a> who emerged victorious.

With a tally of 364 runs scored at an average of 45.50, the Proteas Test captain was the star batsman amongst the lot. With a century vs Sri Lanka and two half-centuries in five matches, the opener led the team from the front. His style and technique topped with his talent to adapt to any situation and conditions helped him give South Africa great starts.

As South Africa enter 2022 with a total of 14 Tests approaching their way, the captain will look to carry his momentum and try to place his side in a good position for the WTC Finals spot.

4. Bangladesh &#8211; Liton Das

<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-583099" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2021/11/Liton-Das-and-Mushfiqur-Rahim.jpg" alt="Liton Das and Mushfiqur Rahim" width="640" height="400" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-583099" class="wp-caption-text">Liton Das and Mushfiqur Rahim. (Photo by MUNIR UZ ZAMAN/AFP via Getty Images)</figcaption>

Taking charge as the wicketkeeper of the <a href="https://www.crictracker.com/cricket-teams/bangladesh" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bangladesh</a> Cricket team, Liton Das was surely the star of their Test set up this year with the bat. Taking a break from the shortest format may have been a blessing in disguise for the 27-year-old.

The feeling of ending the year as the highest run-scorer in the Test format for Bangladesh would surely mean something to the wicketkeeper, but what supersedes that was his maiden ton in the format in Chittagong vs Pakistan. In his seven matches, he managed to score a total of 594 runs at an impressive average of 49.50. He also put up consistent performances for the nation with five half-centuries in 12 innings.

Bangladesh certainly needs match-winners after a poor 2021 year in Tests. With Liton Das coming up the ranks slowly as a dependable middle-order batter, he will surely try to turn fortunes for the country as he will aim to become the X factor for their Test squad.

5. Sri Lanka &#8211; Dimuth Karunaratne

<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-581567" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2021/11/Dimuth-Karunaratne.jpg" alt="Dimuth Karunaratne" width="640" height="400" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-581567" class="wp-caption-text">Dimuth Karunaratne. (Photo Source: Getty Images)</figcaption>

Luck didn’t favour <a href="https://www.crictracker.com/cricket-teams/sri-lanka" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sri Lanka</a> much in the red-ball format except the last three massive wins. However, the silver lining in this mediocre 2021 year was their opening batsman and skipper &#8211; Dimuth Karunaratne. The southpaw was at the top of his game and looked red hot throughout the year. His double century in Pallekele vs Bangladesh, set the tone for him to carry on with his crucial contributions further.

Scoring the maximum runs for Sri Lanka in Test cricket this year (902) at the top of the order, Karunaratne helped get the Lions off a steady start on many occasions. A stellar average of 69.38 in 2021 from 7 matches with 4 tons to his name was enough to make him Sri Lanka’s best Test player in the 2021 calendar year.

The thought of being so close to breaking the legendary Sanath Jayasuriya’s record of maximum runs as a Lankan opener will surely tempt the 33-year-old to continue his crucial contributions. He would love to carry this form next year and in the process, also improve Sri Lanka&#8217;s record in the format.

6. Australia &#8211; Marnus Labuschagne

<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-589006" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2021/12/Marnus-Labuschagne-2.jpg" alt="Marnus Labuschagne" width="640" height="400" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-589006" class="wp-caption-text">Marnus Labuschagne. (Photo by Peter Mundy/Speed Media/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)</figcaption>

If you thought pronouncing his surname was hard, try replicating his performances. Out of all the Australians, Marnus owned the longest format this year. In only his third year since his Test debut, he went on to become the No.1 ranked in the format a few days ago.

<a href="https://www.crictracker.com/marnus-labuschagne-displaces-joe-root-as-no-1-test-batter/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Marnus Labuschagne</a> was simply churning out runs this year. Like a run machine, in just four matches, the Australian chalked up 526 runs including a couple of centuries and 4 half-centuries. Although the turning point of his career came in the rarest of fashion, he capitalized on it and has ever since hit a purple patch. He does not only have the resilience to hold the fort for long hours but can change gears and accelerate the innings with ease.

With an average of 75 this year, we can surely expect some phenomenal performances from the top-order batsman in 2022. Climbing up the rankings will surely motivate Labuschagne to maintain his fine touch as he will look to seal the Ashes for the Australians who are already two up in the series. Closing the year with his incredible performances, he is Australia’s best Test batsman for the year.

7. New Zealand &#8211; Kane Williamson

<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-528857" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2021/06/Kane-Williamson-1.jpg" alt="Kane Williamson" width="640" height="400" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-528857" class="wp-caption-text">Kane Williamson. (Photo by Gareth Copley-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)</figcaption>

A man with the classic late cuts, perfect defensive strokes, aggressive pull shots, and the ability to put on a smile regardless of the matches result, <a href="https://www.crictracker.com/top-5-knocks-of-kane-williamson-in-2021/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Kane Williamson</a> is New Zealand&#8217;s highest run-scorer in Tests this calendar year.  New Zealand as a team have had a pretty successful year in Test cricket, and their leader Williamson has to be credited for that.

Averaging 65.83 in 2021 with a century and a half-century to his tally, he has been his side’s backbone along with others like Conway, Nicholls and Latham. What set him apart from his teammates in the race to become the country’s best Test batter was his ability to stick to the crease for long exhausting hours. 395 runs in 7 innings facing 858 balls and a not out in his kitty, once he got set in the middle, it took a lot of thinking for the opposition to dismiss him.

Leading the defending champions into 2022, Williamson will not only look at upping his performances in their packed schedule but also look to better NZ&#8217;s stand in the World Test Championship to fight for a place in the final of the second cycle.

8. England &#8211; Joe Root

<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-551016" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2021/08/Joe-Root-5.jpg" alt="Joe Root" width="640" height="400" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-551016" class="wp-caption-text">Joe Root. (Photo by Philip Brown/Popperfoto/Popperfoto via Getty Images)</figcaption>

This year saw Joe rooted to the crease while the rest of the 10 batter fell like nine pins against any opposition they played. The English Test captain seemed to be batting on a pitch different from the others every time he walked out. The leader of this year&#8217;s Test run charts, his consistent performances even in capricious conditions at home or away, was simply a delight to watch.

With a stellar 1692 runs tally in his 15 matches at an average of 62.69 so far, he may as well crown himself as this year’s best Test batter. He was the answer to England’s problems at the top of the order. With stability, composure and resilience, <a href="https://www.crictracker.com/ashes-2021-22-joe-root-yells-in-frustration-after-getting-dismissed-in-melbourne-test/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Joe Root</a> took England out from the deep end on numerous occasions. There were often stages where he was the lone warrior at the crease and even in Melbourne, he seems to be the one who can pull England out of the hole yet again.

Joe Root started the year with a massive 228 vs Sri Lanka and the No.2 Test ranked will look to seal off 2021 with a similar performance vs Australia against whom they are trailing in the series. Leading from the front each time, Joe Root is England’s best test batter of the year.

9. India &#8211; Rohit Sharma

<img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-553982" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2021/09/Rohit-Sharma-3.jpg" alt="Rohit Sharma" width="640" height="400" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-553982" class="wp-caption-text">Rohit Sharma. (Photo Source: Getty Images)</figcaption>

Looking back at an eventful 2021 enveloped with action-packed matches, <a href="https://www.crictracker.com/i-thought-if-i-cant-get-the-best-out-of-rohit-sharma-as-a-batter-then-i-am-a-failure-as-a-coach-ravi-shastri/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Rohit Sharma</a> will be a happy man. Sitting at the top of the Indian Test leaderboard for most runs in 2021, the Mumbaikar was an automatic addition to this list of best Test Batsmen of 2021.

Ever since the all-format-star was unleashed as a Test opener, there has been a sense of stability and calmness in the Indian top order. Scoring a total of 906 runs in just 21 innings this year, Rohit has played an instrumental role in creating long partnerships while also converting his 50s into huge scores this year. With the highest score of 161 on a spinning Chepauk deck vs England in February and another century to his name, the 34-year-old outshone himself more often than not.

He is now India&#8217;s full-time white-ball captain and the promotion as the vice-captain of the Test setup, the Indian opener will look to take his game to newer heights. Averaging 47.68 in 2021, he has been the Indian team&#8217;s best Test batsman for the year and will look to convert his starts into massive scores going into the 2022 season.

It is often stated that Test Cricket is the most exciting format of the sport. This has been proven time and again, with nailing biting chases, historic wins, thrilling saves on day five and out of the box strategies.&nbsp;
The World Test Championship has taken the longest format to the next level as each match becomes even more competitive and riveting to watch. With several Test matches played in 2021, the red ball format witnessed a lot of records being made and broken across the world as well as an outpour of individual performances.&nbsp;
<h3>As we look back at the year gone by, here is the Team-wise Best Test batter of 2021:</h3>
<h3>1. West Indies – Kyle Mayers</h3>
<figure id="attachment_485252" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-485252" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"><amp-img class="size-full wp-image-485252" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2021/02/Kyle-Mayers.jpg" alt="Kyle Mayers" width="640" height="400" layout="responsive" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"></amp-img><figcaption id="caption-attachment-485252" class="wp-caption-text">Kyle Mayers. (Photo by MUNIR UZ ZAMAN/AFP via Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>
It is every cricketer’s dream to have a memorable debut match. A debut worthy of recognition; one that announces you to the big stage. While all debutants try to establish this, only a few succeed. February 7th 2021, announced the arrival of a West Indies hero who took his team home on his debut – <a href="https://www.crictracker.com/bangladesh-vs-west-indies-2021-1st-test-kyle-mayers-creates-new-world-records-debutants-rule-the-test-and-more-stats/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Kyle Mayers</a>.
The Test vs Bangladesh saw the middle order batter score an unbeaten 210, with the help of 20 boundaries and seven huge sixes, making him the architect of the highest successful Test run-chase in Asia. He became a part of the elite club of batters to score a double century in the fourth innings of a Test match and just the sixth batter to score a double century on Test debut.
While this might seem like a one-time wonder knock, Kyle Mayers continued his stellar form in the following matches too. He ended 2021 being the second-highest run-getter of the Windies Test setup averaging 35.33. With a tally of 636 runs in the 10 matches, Mayers will aim to be the highest run-getter next year.
<h3>2. Pakistan – Fawad Alam&nbsp;</h3>
<figure id="attachment_435855" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-435855" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"><amp-img class="size-full wp-image-435855" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2020/08/Fawad-Alam-2.jpg" alt="Fawad Alam" width="640" height="400" layout="responsive" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"></amp-img><figcaption id="caption-attachment-435855" class="wp-caption-text">Fawad Alam . (Photo Source: Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>
The world of sports has witnessed many comebacks in the past. Players coming back from injuries after missing out a season or even breakthrough performances after going through rough patches. What we haven’t witnessed, is a team going back to a player excluded from the squad for 11 long years who then becomes the steel of their batting order. <a href="https://www.crictracker.com/scoring-five-centuries-in-five-different-countries-is-a-thing-of-honour-for-me-fawad-alam/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Fawad Alam</a>, the Pakistani middle-order batter has been Pakistan’s X factor this year.&nbsp;
Out of the 9 matches played this year, Alam has gone on to score the maximum centuries in Test cricket for Pakistan in 2021 (3) and a half-century. Along with his other key performances across 13 innings, he has scored 571 runs off the 1149 balls he faced. With the highest score of 140 this year, and being not out thrice, he has only looked at grabbing each opportunity with both hands. 
A great striker of the ball and a batsman capable of building on the innings, Fawad has been Pakistan’s rock in the middle order. While Alam may be 36 years old, it hasn’t stopped him from exploiting what comes his way and making the most of the second chance he has received. 
2021 has been a successful year for the Pakistan Test team having won 7 of their 9 matches and Fawad will surely look at making 2022 a greater year not only for himself but also for Pakistan cricket.
<h3>3. South Africa – Dean Elgar</h3>
<figure id="attachment_364191" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-364191" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"><amp-img class="size-full wp-image-364191" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2019/10/Dean-Elgar.jpg" alt="Dean Elgar" width="640" height="400" layout="responsive" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"></amp-img><figcaption id="caption-attachment-364191" class="wp-caption-text">Dean Elgar. (Photo Source: Twitter)</figcaption></figure>
The Proteas haven’t played a lot of Test cricket this year. In their 5 matches, there was an ongoing tussle between the openers to be the country’s best Test batsman this year. As we approach the dusk of 2021, it was none other than captain <a href="https://www.crictracker.com/south-africa-have-the-upper-hand-but-india-are-ranked-no-1-dean-elgar-ahead-of-three-match-test-series/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Dean Elgar</a> who emerged victorious.&nbsp;
With a tally of 364 runs scored at an average of 45.50, the Proteas Test captain was the star batsman amongst the lot. With a century vs Sri Lanka and two half-centuries in five matches, the opener led the team from the front. His style and technique topped with his talent to adapt to any situation and conditions helped him give South Africa great starts.&nbsp;
As South Africa enter 2022 with a total of 14 Tests approaching their way, the captain will look to carry his momentum and try to place his side in a good position for the WTC Finals spot.
<h3>4. Bangladesh – Liton Das</h3>
<figure id="attachment_583099" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-583099" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"><amp-img class="size-full wp-image-583099" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2021/11/Liton-Das-and-Mushfiqur-Rahim.jpg" alt="Liton Das and Mushfiqur Rahim" width="640" height="400" layout="responsive" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"></amp-img><figcaption id="caption-attachment-583099" class="wp-caption-text">Liton Das and Mushfiqur Rahim. (Photo by MUNIR UZ ZAMAN/AFP via Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>
Taking charge as the wicketkeeper of the <a href="https://www.crictracker.com/cricket-teams/bangladesh" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bangladesh</a> Cricket team, Liton Das was surely the star of their Test set up this year with the bat. Taking a break from the shortest format may have been a blessing in disguise for the 27-year-old.&nbsp;
The feeling of ending the year as the highest run-scorer in the Test format for Bangladesh would surely mean something to the wicketkeeper, but what supersedes that was his maiden ton in the format in Chittagong vs Pakistan. In his seven matches, he managed to score a total of 594 runs at an impressive average of 49.50. He also put up consistent performances for the nation with five half-centuries in 12 innings.&nbsp;
Bangladesh certainly needs match-winners after a poor 2021 year in Tests. With Liton Das coming up the ranks slowly as a dependable middle-order batter, he will surely try to turn fortunes for the country as he will aim to become the X factor for their Test squad. 
<h3>5. Sri Lanka – Dimuth Karunaratne</h3>
<figure id="attachment_581567" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-581567" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"><amp-img class="size-full wp-image-581567" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2021/11/Dimuth-Karunaratne.jpg" alt="Dimuth Karunaratne" width="640" height="400" layout="responsive" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"></amp-img><figcaption id="caption-attachment-581567" class="wp-caption-text">Dimuth Karunaratne. (Photo Source: Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>
Luck didn’t favour <a href="https://www.crictracker.com/cricket-teams/sri-lanka" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sri Lanka</a> much in the red-ball format except the last three massive wins. However, the silver lining in this mediocre 2021 year was their opening batsman and skipper – Dimuth Karunaratne. The southpaw was at the top of his game and looked red hot throughout the year. His double century in Pallekele vs Bangladesh, set the tone for him to carry on with his crucial contributions further. 
Scoring the maximum runs for Sri Lanka in Test cricket this year (902) at the top of the order, Karunaratne helped get the Lions off a steady start on many occasions. A stellar average of 69.38 in 2021 from 7 matches with 4 tons to his name was enough to make him Sri Lanka’s best Test player in the 2021 calendar year.&nbsp;
The thought of being so close to breaking the legendary Sanath Jayasuriya’s record of maximum runs as a Lankan opener will surely tempt the 33-year-old to continue his crucial contributions. He would love to carry this form next year and in the process, also improve Sri Lanka’s record in the format.
<h3>6. Australia – Marnus Labuschagne</h3>
<figure id="attachment_589006" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-589006" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"><amp-img class="size-full wp-image-589006" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2021/12/Marnus-Labuschagne-2.jpg" alt="Marnus Labuschagne" width="640" height="400" layout="responsive" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"></amp-img><figcaption id="caption-attachment-589006" class="wp-caption-text">Marnus Labuschagne. (Photo by Peter Mundy/Speed Media/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>
If you thought pronouncing his surname was hard, try replicating his performances. Out of all the Australians, Marnus owned the longest format this year. In only his third year since his Test debut, he went on to become the No.1 ranked in the format a few days ago.
<a href="https://www.crictracker.com/marnus-labuschagne-displaces-joe-root-as-no-1-test-batter/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Marnus Labuschagne</a> was simply churning out runs this year. Like a run machine, in just four matches, the Australian chalked up 526 runs including a couple of centuries and 4 half-centuries. Although the turning point of his career came in the rarest of fashion, he capitalized on it and has ever since hit a purple patch. He does not only have the resilience to hold the fort for long hours but can change gears and accelerate the innings with ease. 
With an average of 75 this year, we can surely expect some phenomenal performances from the top-order batsman in 2022. Climbing up the rankings will surely motivate Labuschagne to maintain his fine touch as he will look to seal the Ashes for the Australians who are already two up in the series. Closing the year with his incredible performances, he is Australia’s best Test batsman for the year.
<h3>7. New Zealand – Kane Williamson</h3>
<figure id="attachment_528857" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-528857" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"><amp-img class="size-full wp-image-528857" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2021/06/Kane-Williamson-1.jpg" alt="Kane Williamson" width="640" height="400" layout="responsive" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"></amp-img><figcaption id="caption-attachment-528857" class="wp-caption-text">Kane Williamson. (Photo by Gareth Copley-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>
A man with the classic late cuts, perfect defensive strokes, aggressive pull shots, and the ability to put on a smile regardless of the matches result, <a href="https://www.crictracker.com/top-5-knocks-of-kane-williamson-in-2021/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Kane Williamson</a> is New Zealand’s highest run-scorer in Tests this calendar year.&nbsp; New Zealand as a team have had a pretty successful year in Test cricket, and their leader Williamson has to be credited for that. 
Averaging 65.83 in 2021 with a century and a half-century to his tally, he has been his side’s backbone along with others like Conway, Nicholls and Latham. What set him apart from his teammates in the race to become the country’s best Test batter was his ability to stick to the crease for long exhausting hours. 395 runs in 7 innings facing 858 balls and a not out in his kitty, once he got set in the middle, it took a lot of thinking for the opposition to dismiss him.&nbsp;
Leading the defending champions into 2022, Williamson will not only look at upping his performances in their packed schedule but also look to better NZ’s stand in the World Test Championship to fight for a place in the final of the second cycle.
<h3>8. England – Joe Root</h3>
<figure id="attachment_551016" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-551016" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"><amp-img class="size-full wp-image-551016" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2021/08/Joe-Root-5.jpg" alt="Joe Root" width="640" height="400" layout="responsive" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"></amp-img><figcaption id="caption-attachment-551016" class="wp-caption-text">Joe Root. (Photo by Philip Brown/Popperfoto/Popperfoto via Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>
This year saw Joe rooted to the crease while the rest of the 10 batter fell like nine pins against any opposition they played. The English Test captain seemed to be batting on a pitch different from the others every time he walked out. The leader of this year’s Test run charts, his consistent performances even in capricious conditions at home or away, was simply a delight to watch. 
With a stellar 1692 runs tally in his 15 matches at an average of 62.69 so far, he may as well crown himself as this year’s best Test batter. He was the answer to England’s problems at the top of the order. With stability, composure and resilience, <a href="https://www.crictracker.com/ashes-2021-22-joe-root-yells-in-frustration-after-getting-dismissed-in-melbourne-test/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Joe Root</a> took England out from the deep end on numerous occasions. There were often stages where he was the lone warrior at the crease and even in Melbourne, he seems to be the one who can pull England out of the hole yet again.
Joe Root started the year with a massive 228 vs Sri Lanka and the No.2 Test ranked will look to seal off 2021 with a similar performance vs Australia against whom they are trailing in the series. Leading from the front each time, Joe Root is England’s best test batter of the year.&nbsp;
<h3>9. India – Rohit Sharma</h3>
<figure id="attachment_553982" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-553982" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"><amp-img class="size-full wp-image-553982" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2021/09/Rohit-Sharma-3.jpg" alt="Rohit Sharma" width="640" height="400" layout="responsive" style="max-width: 100%; margin: 0;"></amp-img><figcaption id="caption-attachment-553982" class="wp-caption-text">Rohit Sharma. (Photo Source: Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>
Looking back at an eventful 2021 enveloped with action-packed matches, <a href="https://www.crictracker.com/i-thought-if-i-cant-get-the-best-out-of-rohit-sharma-as-a-batter-then-i-am-a-failure-as-a-coach-ravi-shastri/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Rohit Sharma</a> will be a happy man. Sitting at the top of the Indian Test leaderboard for most runs in 2021, the Mumbaikar was an automatic addition to this list of best Test Batsmen of 2021.&nbsp;
Ever since the all-format-star was unleashed as a Test opener, there has been a sense of stability and calmness in the Indian top order. Scoring a total of 906 runs in just 21 innings this year, Rohit has played an instrumental role in creating long partnerships while also converting his 50s into huge scores this year. With the highest score of 161 on a spinning Chepauk deck vs England in February and another century to his name, the 34-year-old outshone himself more often than not.&nbsp;
He is now India’s full-time white-ball captain and the promotion as the vice-captain of the Test setup, the Indian opener will look to take his game to newer heights. Averaging 47.68 in 2021, he has been the Indian team’s best Test batsman for the year and will look to convert his starts into massive scores going into the 2022 season.

It is often stated that Test Cricket is the most exciting format of the sport. This has been proven time and again, with nailing biting chases, historic wins, thrilling saves on day five and out of the box strategies. 
The World Test Championship has taken the longest format to the next level as each match becomes even more competitive and riveting to watch. With several Test matches played in 2021, the red ball format witnessed a lot of records being made and broken across the world as well as an outpour of individual performances. 
<h3>As we look back at the year gone by, here is the Team-wise Best Test batter of 2021:</h3>
<h3>1. West Indies &#8211; Kyle Mayers</h3>
<figure id="attachment_485252" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-485252" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-485252" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2021/02/Kyle-Mayers.jpg" alt="Kyle Mayers" width="640" height="400" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-485252" class="wp-caption-text">Kyle Mayers. (Photo by MUNIR UZ ZAMAN/AFP via Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>
It is every cricketer’s dream to have a memorable debut match. A debut worthy of recognition; one that announces you to the big stage. While all debutants try to establish this, only a few succeed. February 7th 2021, announced the arrival of a West Indies hero who took his team home on his debut &#8211; <a href="https://www.crictracker.com/bangladesh-vs-west-indies-2021-1st-test-kyle-mayers-creates-new-world-records-debutants-rule-the-test-and-more-stats/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Kyle Mayers</a>.
The Test vs Bangladesh saw the middle order batter score an unbeaten 210, with the help of 20 boundaries and seven huge sixes, making him the architect of the highest successful Test run-chase in Asia. He became a part of the elite club of batters to score a double century in the fourth innings of a Test match and just the sixth batter to score a double century on Test debut.
While this might seem like a one-time wonder knock, Kyle Mayers continued his stellar form in the following matches too. He ended 2021 being the second-highest run-getter of the Windies Test setup averaging 35.33. With a tally of 636 runs in the 10 matches, Mayers will aim to be the highest run-getter next year.
<h3>2. Pakistan &#8211; Fawad Alam </h3>
<figure id="attachment_435855" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-435855" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-435855" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2020/08/Fawad-Alam-2.jpg" alt="Fawad Alam" width="640" height="400" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-435855" class="wp-caption-text">Fawad Alam . (Photo Source: Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>
The world of sports has witnessed many comebacks in the past. Players coming back from injuries after missing out a season or even breakthrough performances after going through rough patches. What we haven’t witnessed, is a team going back to a player excluded from the squad for 11 long years who then becomes the steel of their batting order. <a href="https://www.crictracker.com/scoring-five-centuries-in-five-different-countries-is-a-thing-of-honour-for-me-fawad-alam/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Fawad Alam</a>, the Pakistani middle-order batter has been Pakistan&#8217;s X factor this year. 
Out of the 9 matches played this year, Alam has gone on to score the maximum centuries in Test cricket for Pakistan in 2021 (3) and a half-century. Along with his other key performances across 13 innings, he has scored 571 runs off the 1149 balls he faced. With the highest score of 140 this year, and being not out thrice, he has only looked at grabbing each opportunity with both hands. 
A great striker of the ball and a batsman capable of building on the innings, Fawad has been Pakistan&#8217;s rock in the middle order. While Alam may be 36 years old, it hasn’t stopped him from exploiting what comes his way and making the most of the second chance he has received. 
2021 has been a successful year for the Pakistan Test team having won 7 of their 9 matches and Fawad will surely look at making 2022 a greater year not only for himself but also for Pakistan cricket.
<h3>3. South Africa &#8211; Dean Elgar</h3>
<figure id="attachment_364191" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-364191" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-364191" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2019/10/Dean-Elgar.jpg" alt="Dean Elgar" width="640" height="400" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-364191" class="wp-caption-text">Dean Elgar. (Photo Source: Twitter)</figcaption></figure>
The Proteas haven’t played a lot of Test cricket this year. In their 5 matches, there was an ongoing tussle between the openers to be the country’s best Test batsman this year. As we approach the dusk of 2021, it was none other than captain <a href="https://www.crictracker.com/south-africa-have-the-upper-hand-but-india-are-ranked-no-1-dean-elgar-ahead-of-three-match-test-series/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Dean Elgar</a> who emerged victorious. 
With a tally of 364 runs scored at an average of 45.50, the Proteas Test captain was the star batsman amongst the lot. With a century vs Sri Lanka and two half-centuries in five matches, the opener led the team from the front. His style and technique topped with his talent to adapt to any situation and conditions helped him give South Africa great starts. 
As South Africa enter 2022 with a total of 14 Tests approaching their way, the captain will look to carry his momentum and try to place his side in a good position for the WTC Finals spot.
<h3>4. Bangladesh &#8211; Liton Das</h3>
<figure id="attachment_583099" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-583099" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-583099" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2021/11/Liton-Das-and-Mushfiqur-Rahim.jpg" alt="Liton Das and Mushfiqur Rahim" width="640" height="400" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-583099" class="wp-caption-text">Liton Das and Mushfiqur Rahim. (Photo by MUNIR UZ ZAMAN/AFP via Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>
Taking charge as the wicketkeeper of the <a href="https://www.crictracker.com/cricket-teams/bangladesh" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bangladesh</a> Cricket team, Liton Das was surely the star of their Test set up this year with the bat. Taking a break from the shortest format may have been a blessing in disguise for the 27-year-old. 
The feeling of ending the year as the highest run-scorer in the Test format for Bangladesh would surely mean something to the wicketkeeper, but what supersedes that was his maiden ton in the format in Chittagong vs Pakistan. In his seven matches, he managed to score a total of 594 runs at an impressive average of 49.50. He also put up consistent performances for the nation with five half-centuries in 12 innings. 
Bangladesh certainly needs match-winners after a poor 2021 year in Tests. With Liton Das coming up the ranks slowly as a dependable middle-order batter, he will surely try to turn fortunes for the country as he will aim to become the X factor for their Test squad. 
<h3>5. Sri Lanka &#8211; Dimuth Karunaratne</h3>
<figure id="attachment_581567" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-581567" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-581567" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2021/11/Dimuth-Karunaratne.jpg" alt="Dimuth Karunaratne" width="640" height="400" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-581567" class="wp-caption-text">Dimuth Karunaratne. (Photo Source: Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>
Luck didn’t favour <a href="https://www.crictracker.com/cricket-teams/sri-lanka" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Sri Lanka</a> much in the red-ball format except the last three massive wins. However, the silver lining in this mediocre 2021 year was their opening batsman and skipper &#8211; Dimuth Karunaratne. The southpaw was at the top of his game and looked red hot throughout the year. His double century in Pallekele vs Bangladesh, set the tone for him to carry on with his crucial contributions further. 
Scoring the maximum runs for Sri Lanka in Test cricket this year (902) at the top of the order, Karunaratne helped get the Lions off a steady start on many occasions. A stellar average of 69.38 in 2021 from 7 matches with 4 tons to his name was enough to make him Sri Lanka’s best Test player in the 2021 calendar year. 
The thought of being so close to breaking the legendary Sanath Jayasuriya’s record of maximum runs as a Lankan opener will surely tempt the 33-year-old to continue his crucial contributions. He would love to carry this form next year and in the process, also improve Sri Lanka&#8217;s record in the format.
<h3>6. Australia &#8211; Marnus Labuschagne</h3>
<figure id="attachment_589006" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-589006" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-589006" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2021/12/Marnus-Labuschagne-2.jpg" alt="Marnus Labuschagne" width="640" height="400" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-589006" class="wp-caption-text">Marnus Labuschagne. (Photo by Peter Mundy/Speed Media/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>
If you thought pronouncing his surname was hard, try replicating his performances. Out of all the Australians, Marnus owned the longest format this year. In only his third year since his Test debut, he went on to become the No.1 ranked in the format a few days ago.
<a href="https://www.crictracker.com/marnus-labuschagne-displaces-joe-root-as-no-1-test-batter/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Marnus Labuschagne</a> was simply churning out runs this year. Like a run machine, in just four matches, the Australian chalked up 526 runs including a couple of centuries and 4 half-centuries. Although the turning point of his career came in the rarest of fashion, he capitalized on it and has ever since hit a purple patch. He does not only have the resilience to hold the fort for long hours but can change gears and accelerate the innings with ease. 
With an average of 75 this year, we can surely expect some phenomenal performances from the top-order batsman in 2022. Climbing up the rankings will surely motivate Labuschagne to maintain his fine touch as he will look to seal the Ashes for the Australians who are already two up in the series. Closing the year with his incredible performances, he is Australia’s best Test batsman for the year.
<h3>7. New Zealand &#8211; Kane Williamson</h3>
<figure id="attachment_528857" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-528857" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-528857" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2021/06/Kane-Williamson-1.jpg" alt="Kane Williamson" width="640" height="400" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-528857" class="wp-caption-text">Kane Williamson. (Photo by Gareth Copley-ICC/ICC via Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>
A man with the classic late cuts, perfect defensive strokes, aggressive pull shots, and the ability to put on a smile regardless of the matches result, <a href="https://www.crictracker.com/top-5-knocks-of-kane-williamson-in-2021/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Kane Williamson</a> is New Zealand&#8217;s highest run-scorer in Tests this calendar year.  New Zealand as a team have had a pretty successful year in Test cricket, and their leader Williamson has to be credited for that. 
Averaging 65.83 in 2021 with a century and a half-century to his tally, he has been his side’s backbone along with others like Conway, Nicholls and Latham. What set him apart from his teammates in the race to become the country’s best Test batter was his ability to stick to the crease for long exhausting hours. 395 runs in 7 innings facing 858 balls and a not out in his kitty, once he got set in the middle, it took a lot of thinking for the opposition to dismiss him. 
Leading the defending champions into 2022, Williamson will not only look at upping his performances in their packed schedule but also look to better NZ&#8217;s stand in the World Test Championship to fight for a place in the final of the second cycle.
<h3>8. England &#8211; Joe Root</h3>
<figure id="attachment_551016" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-551016" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-551016" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2021/08/Joe-Root-5.jpg" alt="Joe Root" width="640" height="400" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-551016" class="wp-caption-text">Joe Root. (Photo by Philip Brown/Popperfoto/Popperfoto via Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>
This year saw Joe rooted to the crease while the rest of the 10 batter fell like nine pins against any opposition they played. The English Test captain seemed to be batting on a pitch different from the others every time he walked out. The leader of this year&#8217;s Test run charts, his consistent performances even in capricious conditions at home or away, was simply a delight to watch. 
With a stellar 1692 runs tally in his 15 matches at an average of 62.69 so far, he may as well crown himself as this year’s best Test batter. He was the answer to England’s problems at the top of the order. With stability, composure and resilience, <a href="https://www.crictracker.com/ashes-2021-22-joe-root-yells-in-frustration-after-getting-dismissed-in-melbourne-test/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Joe Root</a> took England out from the deep end on numerous occasions. There were often stages where he was the lone warrior at the crease and even in Melbourne, he seems to be the one who can pull England out of the hole yet again.
Joe Root started the year with a massive 228 vs Sri Lanka and the No.2 Test ranked will look to seal off 2021 with a similar performance vs Australia against whom they are trailing in the series. Leading from the front each time, Joe Root is England’s best test batter of the year. 
<h3>9. India &#8211; Rohit Sharma</h3>
<figure id="attachment_553982" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-553982" style="width: 640px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" class="size-full wp-image-553982" src="https://media.crictracker.com/media/attachments/2021/09/Rohit-Sharma-3.jpg" alt="Rohit Sharma" width="640" height="400" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px"><figcaption id="caption-attachment-553982" class="wp-caption-text">Rohit Sharma. (Photo Source: Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>
Looking back at an eventful 2021 enveloped with action-packed matches, <a href="https://www.crictracker.com/i-thought-if-i-cant-get-the-best-out-of-rohit-sharma-as-a-batter-then-i-am-a-failure-as-a-coach-ravi-shastri/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Rohit Sharma</a> will be a happy man. Sitting at the top of the Indian Test leaderboard for most runs in 2021, the Mumbaikar was an automatic addition to this list of best Test Batsmen of 2021. 
Ever since the all-format-star was unleashed as a Test opener, there has been a sense of stability and calmness in the Indian top order. Scoring a total of 906 runs in just 21 innings this year, Rohit has played an instrumental role in creating long partnerships while also converting his 50s into huge scores this year. With the highest score of 161 on a spinning Chepauk deck vs England in February and another century to his name, the 34-year-old outshone himself more often than not. 
He is now India&#8217;s full-time white-ball captain and the promotion as the vice-captain of the Test setup, the Indian opener will look to take his game to newer heights. Averaging 47.68 in 2021, he has been the Indian team&#8217;s best Test batsman for the year and will look to convert his starts into massive scores going into the 2022 season.

These players were consistent with the willow throughout the year and would love to continue in the same vein going forward.

Team-wise best Test batter of the year 2021

Here we bring you the best Test batter of each team in the year 2021. They were exceptional and consistent with their performances.