Top 10 Best T20 Batsman in the World (Updated 2025)

In modern-day cricket, the T20 format is loved by many, as fans love the explosive game of cricket and enjoy the fast-paced game. Determining the best batsman in T20 involves more than just stats. It’s about current form, impact, and legacy. There are many batsmen who have created their name in the T20 format, with the way they play this format. The T20 format has evolved over time, where now batsmen try to smash the ball out of the park from the very first ball and try their best to put the highest score on the scoreboard.

There are T20 legends like Virat Kohli who chases under pressure, Suryakumar Yadav innovates with 360-degree strokeplay, and Chris Gayle dismantles bowling attacks with raw power. The other players like Babar Azam, Jos Buttler, and Glenn Maxwell turn the games on their heads, bringing thrill into watching the game. In this article, we will list down the top 10 best T20 batsman of all time, who have ruled the world of T20 cricket.

List of Best T20 Batsman in the World

The game of T20 cricket is played with an aggressive mindset where batsmen dominate bowlers by smashing balls out of the park and scoring plenty of runs. There are many batsmen who take the game deep in the T20 format and then start the explosive batting, while on the other hand, there are many batsmen who have a natural game that aligns with the T20 game. Here is the list of the best batsman in T20, which includes the big names of Virat Kohli to Chris Gayle.

Who is the Best T20 Batsman of All Time?

You’ve seen these batters do more than just rack up runs; they’ve redefined the way T20 cricket is played. With fearless intent, smart adaptability, and ice-cool nerves under pressure, they’ve set the gold standard. You’re not just looking at numbers here. You are remembering match-winning knocks, unforgettable chases, and moments that left you speechless. Every six they hit, every boundary under pressure, told a story of dominance and flair. If you’ve ever held your breath during a chase or jumped up in excitement after a last-ball finish, chances are one of these legends was at the crease. Here are the best T20 batsman of all time.

10. Suryakumar Yadav | 83 Matches | 167.07 SR

Suryakumar Yadav has revolutionised middle-order batting with 2,598 runs. His audacious shot-making and ability to find gaps make him one of the most exciting contemporary T20 batsmen. Suryakumar’s high strike rate reflects his aggressive approach and adaptability against all types of bowling. Indian T20 skipper Suryakumar Yadav has rapidly become one of India’s most dynamic T20 batsmen. Since his T20I debut in 2021, he has played over 80 matches, scored more than 2,500 runs, and is known for his inventive strokeplay and high strike rate, and has become one of the best T20 batsman.

9. Babar Azam | 128 Matches | 129.22 SR

Babar Azam is renowned for his classical technique and consistency. With over 4,000 runs in T20Is, he anchors innings and adapts to different situations. While not the most explosive, his reliability and ability to build partnerships make him a vital asset for Pakistan and T20 franchises worldwide. Former Pakistan skipper Babar Azam is Pakistan’s premier T20 batsman, admired for his elegant strokeplay and consistency. He is one of the most reliable anchors in the format. Babar’s leadership has been pivotal for Pakistan, and he frequently features among the best T20 batsman globally.

8. AB de Villiers | 78 Matches | 135.16 SR

AB de Villiers is celebrated for his innovative 360-degree batting. His ability to accelerate under pressure and play unorthodox shots has produced some of T20’s most memorable innings. De Villiers remains a benchmark for creativity and effectiveness in T20 cricket. Proteas star AB de Villiers, known as “Mr. 360,” redefined T20 batting with his innovative shot-making and adaptability. In his T20I career, he played 78 matches, scored 1,672 runs. While he retired from international cricket in 2018, his T20 franchise career, especially with Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the IPL, remains legendary.

7. David Warner | 110 Matches | 142.47 SR

David Warner’s aggressive approach has yielded a lot of runs and making him one of the best T20 batsman. A dynamic opener, Warner sets the tone for his teams with brisk starts and has excelled in leagues globally. His consistency and ability to adapt to different conditions make him a T20 powerhouse. Australian opener David Warner has played 110 T20Is, scoring 3,277 runs at an average of 33.43 and a strike rate of 142.47. Known for his aggressive starts, Warner was instrumental in Australia’s 2021 T20 World Cup win, earning Player of the Tournament honors. He captained Sunrisers Hyderabad to their only IPL title and retired from international cricket in June 2024 after a celebrated career.

6. Kieron Pollard | 101 Matches | 135.14 SR

Kieron Pollard’s power-hitting abilities highlight his reputation as a formidable finisher. His power-hitting and calmness under pressure have led to countless match-winning cameos. Former Windies star Kieron Pollard’s contributions in leagues worldwide underline his status as one of the most impactful all-rounders in T20 history. If you’re a fan of explosive T20 cricket, then you already know what Kieron Pollard brings to the table. Whether it's smashing sixes in the final overs or chipping in with handy medium-pace spells, Pollard’s impact is hard to miss. You’ve probably seen him light up leagues like the IPL, CPL, and Big Bash with ease while finishing games in style.

5. Glenn Maxwell | 121 Matches | 156.03 SR

Glenn Maxwell, one of the best all-rounder in the world, is celebrated for his explosive strokeplay and versatility. Known for unconventional shots and rapid scoring, Maxwell consistently changes games within a few overs. His all-around skills and match-winning knocks have made him one of the best T20 batsmen in the world and a fan favourite. In T20Is, he has played 121 matches, scored 2,754 runs at an average of 29.29, and has a strike rate above 156. All-rounder Glenn Maxwell has five T20I centuries, a rare feat, and is known for his ability to change games single-handedly with both bat and ball.

4. Jos Buttler | 137 Matches | 147.05 SR

Jos Buttler is one of the most explosive T20 openers, tallying a lot of runs. Known for his aggressive intent and finishing ability, Buttler consistently delivers match-winning performances for England and various franchises, making him a feared batsman in the shortest format. Former English skipper Jos Buttler is England’s most-capped T20I player, is renowned for his innovative batting and finishing ability. He has played over 100 T20Is, scored more than 3,500 runs, and holds England’s record for most T20I dismissals as a wicketkeeper. Buttler led England to the 2022 T20 World Cup title.

3. Virat Kohli | 125 Matches | 137.04 SR

Virat Kohli’s T20 legacy is built on unmatched consistency and chasing prowess. He excels under pressure and in big tournaments, scoring runs consistently. Kohli blends aggression with composure, making him one of the most reliable and celebrated batsmen in the T20 format’s history. Indian star Virat Kohli has been a mainstay of India’s T20I batting lineup, renowned for his consistency and chase-master abilities. He is among the highest run-scorers in T20Is and has played several match-winning knocks in ICC tournaments. Kohli’s adaptability and aggressive style have made him a top performer in both international T20s and the IPL.

2. Chris Gayle | 79 Matches | 137.50 SR

Chris Gayle, the “Universe Boss,” has scored plenty of runs in the T20 format. Renowned for his six-hitting prowess and record-breaking feats, Gayle’s dominance across leagues has set the gold standard for T20 batting. His longevity and power make him a true icon of the format. Explosive opener Chris Gayle is widely regarded as the best T20 batsman, holding records for most runs and centuries in the format. The Jamaican left-hander has scored over 1,899 T20I runs and played a pivotal role in the West Indies’ T20 World Cup triumphs. Known for his explosive power and calm demeanor, Gayle’s T20 career includes stints in leagues worldwide, making him a true global superstar.

1. Rohit Sharma | 159 Matches | 140.89 SR

Rohit Sharma is known for his effortless timing and ability to score big. His multiple T20I centuries and explosive starts have made him a mainstay at the top of the order, consistently delivering for both India and his franchise teams. Opener Rohit Sharma has been India’s prolific T20I opener, who has played 159 T20Is, amassing 4,231 runs. He holds the record for most T20I centuries (5) and has led Mumbai Indians to multiple IPL titles. Rohit is celebrated for his effortless six-hitting and big-match performances. No doubt, he is the best T20 batsman in the world. He led India to win the ICC T20 World Cup 2024, making him the best T20 captain of India.

How We Ranked the Best T20 Batsman - Ranking Factor

Several key factors shape a batsman’s greatness in T20 cricket, each contributing uniquely to success in the shortest format. Beyond matches played, runs, strike rate, average, and range of shots, situational awareness is vital. Excelling during the powerplay, when maximising boundaries and preserving wickets is crucial, can set the tone for an innings. The ability to rotate strike and minimise dot balls during the middle overs prevents stagnation and maintains pressure on the opposition. Adaptability against different bowling types, especially quality spin, is essential in the middle phase. In the death overs, a batsman’s ability to accelerate scoring with frequent boundaries often determines the outcome. We have taken into consideration all these things to determine who is the best T20 batsman in the world.

Matches Played: Experience matters in T20s. The more matches a batsman plays, the better they adapt to pressure, different conditions, and varied bowling attacks, building consistency and confidence.

Runs: Total runs reflect a batsman’s ability to contribute significantly over time. High run-scorers often anchor innings, help set or chase targets, and demonstrate reliability in different situations.

Strike Rate: A high strike rate is crucial in T20s, as it measures how quickly a batsman scores. Teams with higher strike rates win more often, making this metric a strong predictor of match impact.

Average: While not as critical as in Tests or ODIs, a solid average still indicates consistency. It shows a batsman’s ability to score runs regularly without frequent dismissals, balancing aggression with reliability.

Range of Shots: A wide range of shots allows batsmen to exploit gaps, counter varied bowling, and score quickly. Versatility in strokeplay is essential for adapting to field placements and maximising scoring opportunities.

Who is the Best T20 Batsman in the World Currently?

Abhishek Sharma, a young Indian opener, is the best T20 batsman in the world currently, who is ruling the world of T20 cricket with his explosive batting. He is currently ranking at the top in the ICC T20 Batters Rankings with his all-time highest points of 829. Explosive batter Abhishek Sharma has shown his worth over the years in the game, where he got a start through the IPL and cemented his place in the Indian cricket team.

He is known as the successor of the Sixer king Yuvraj Singh, as he has a similar playing style to him and even got trained by him. He has smashed the highest T20 score by an Indian in an innings, which is 135 against England. He is known for his six-hitting ability, where he can smash the ball out of the park from the very first ball of the match. In his short T20 career, he has smashed 2 centuries and 2 half-centuries and has a strike rate of 193.84, which justifies his hitting abilities. He has also smashed one of the fastest centuries in T20, which came in just 37 balls against England.