The fast-paced T20I format requires a batter to score maximum runs by consuming fewer balls. The value of each ball in the shortest format is paramount, as a single dot ball can tilt the momentum of the match.
Thus, batters use an attacking approach to accumulate as many runs as possible off every delivery they face. But this technique also comes with the risk of batters losing their wickets early on.
However, a few batters have found a perfect balance between scoring runs at a considerable strike rate while facing a significant chunk of balls.
This article delves into the top 10 batters who have faced the most balls in T20I cricket.
Most Balls Faced by a Batter in T20Is
| Player | Span | Matches | Innings | Balls Faced |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Babar Azam (PAK) | 2016-2024 | 128 | 121 | 3268 |
| Virat Kohli (IND) | 2010-2024 | 125 | 117 | 3056 |
| Rohit Sharma (IND) | 2007-2024 | 159 | 151 | 3003 |
| Mohammad Rizwan (PAK) | 2015-2024 | 106 | 93 | 2723 |
| Paul Stirling (IRE) | 2009-2025 | 150 | 147 | 2714 |
| Martin Guptill (NZ) | 2009-2022 | 122 | 118 | 2602 |
| Jos Buttler (ENG) | 2011-2025 | 135 | 124 | 2470 |
| David Warner (AUS) | 2009-2024 | 110 | 110 | 2300 |
| Virandeep Singh (MAS) | 2019-2025 | 95 | 92 | 2203 |
| Aaron Finch (AUS) | 2011-2022 | 103 | 103 | 2189 |
Key Insights
Over 11 batters have faced 2000 or more balls in the T20I format. The number extends to 30 batters who have played 1500+ deliveries.
7 batters have faced 2000+ balls, scoring more than 3000 runs in T20Is, with Virat Kohli being the only batter with 4000+ runs. The other batters are Babar Azam, Rohit Sharma, Martin Guptill, Paul Stirling, Aaron Finch, and David Warner.
