Top 5 Test batters with a higher batting average than strike rate

Test cricket is one format where players go on to build their careers not by scoring at a fast rate, but by making innings with patience and fight. Interestingly, some of these batters have a rare difference; their batting average is higher than their strike rate. These players have gone on to be the legends of the game, breaking numerous records and building a legacy of their own.

Today, CricTracker takes a look at five such legendary batters whose batting average has been more than their strike-rate. While the list is not inclusive of all the names in the list, it does have some players who are still active in the red-ball internationals, while a few have hung up their boots from the purest format of the game.

5. Steven Smith

Australia's modern-day great Steve Smith's Test batting average (56.55) is higher than his strike rate (53.59). Having recently crossed the 10,000-run mark in Test cricket, Smith joined an elite list, doing so in just 115 Tests, joint second-fastest alongside Kumar Sangakkara. He has not dipped below a 55 average in any of his last 78 consecutive Tests. 

In the World Test Championship 2023-25 cycle, he averages 50.05, the third-highest among players with 2000+ runs and 13 tons. The right-handed batter played a huge role in guiding Australia to their second WTC final. However, the side failed to defend their title, losing to South Africa in the summit clash. Smith himself smashed a fifty in the first innings, but perished early in the subsequent innings.