Ranking the Top 8 Test-openers of all time

#4 Len Hutton

Hutton whilst batting

Wisden Cricketers' Almanack described Len Hutton as one of the greatest opening batsmen in the history of cricket. An English batsman, he played 79 Test matches and scored 6971 runs at an average of 56.67. He was a marvelous player with good cricketing brains which helped him captain England.

Denis Compton said, "We were different characters but very good friends, and he was the greatest opening batsman I have ever seen. I say that because in our day we played on uncovered wickets. His powers of concentration were remarkable, but when he wanted to be he was one of the best stroke makers in the game."

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#3 Alastair Cook

Cook has announced his retirement from cricket

Alastair Cook is a dashing left-handed batsman who holds the record of being the youngest player to score 1000, 2000 and 3000 runs. He has all the shots in his kitty and can play seamers and spin bowlers with equal ease.

Cook is playing the last of his 161 Test matches and had 12254 runs before the game at a decent average of 44.88. Graham Gooch said, "He is a genuine legend of English cricket. He is a legend not only because of his performances, but, because of his attitude, his sacrifices, the way he has carried himself and the example he has set.”