Top 5 Test batsmen in the current era

#3 Virat Kohli (IND)

Virat Kohli's strong overseas record explains his continued dominance.

Briefly out of action for paternity leave, Virat Kohli has been one of India's most consistent Test batsmen overseas. Such are the standards he is held to, that his century-less 2020 was seen as an aberration. Still, he averages above 53 and strikes above 57 runs every 100 balls.

Known for his cover drive, Kohli has also showed a number of technical adjustments to counter for swing, spin and seam movement over the years. In the first Test against Australia, he also showed an ability to strap in for the long haul on a tough pitch.

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#2 Steve Smith (AUS)

Steve Smith returned to run-scoring ways in the third Test against India.

One player who has continuously played musical chairs with the top three ICC Test Batting Rankings is Steve Smith. After a breakthrough home series against India in 2014-15 where he also gained the captaincy, there was no looking back for Smith, who has a scarcely believable average of over 62 at a strike rate of 55.

The 12-month ban that he suffered hardly affected his Test batting, as he held on to his spot with strong performances on return. Although it looked like India had worked him out in the Test series, Smith responded brilliantly with a hundred and a fifty at Sydney to take Player of the Match honours.

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#1 Kane Williamson (NZ)

Kane Williamson has helped his side to a historic No. 1 Test Ranking.

Top of the pile is the ever-understated Kiwi batting colossus. Kane Williamson has taken captaincy within his stride to lead New Zealand to the top of the ICC Test Rankings for the first time in their history. An average of 54 and strike-rate of 52 belie a fighting attitude and consistency that is crucial in Test matches.

One of the biggest exponents of playing the ball late, Williamson scores heavily behind the wicket, although he is capable of upping the ante in front of the wicket as well. Along with his rock-solid presence at the crease, his gentlemanly conduct has won him fans all over the globe.