Cricket, which is frequently described as a gentleman’s game, has witnessed a number of astonishing tales and remarkable accomplishments. One of these narratives is particularly inspiring since it concerns cricket players who keep performing well at the international level after turning 40. The senior players generally tend to disprove common beliefs about aging and have backed it up with some great performance by demonstrating that a person’s passion, perseverance, and wealth of knowledge can triumph over time.
International cricket is one such platform that every aspiring cricketer wants to play and also represent their nation on the grand stage. There are times in cricket when the talent is recognized much later and hence they receive call ups from the national side much later on. Let us now look at batters to score the most international runs after turning 40;
1. 2599-Misbah-ul-Haq
One of the most prominent examples of late bloomers in international cricket is Misbah-ul-Haq who has surely entertained everyone with some quality batting. Misbah stood out for his calm and composed nature which certainly reflected in his consistent batting as well as captaincy, notably during Pakistan’s recovery from the spot-fixing scandal in 2010.
As a batsman, the former Pakistan batter blends resolute defense and inventive strokes, supported by solid technique. Although he faced periods of inconsistency and limited international play, Misbah’s skill was evident from his early Test innings in 2001. His pivotal role in the 2007 T20 World Championship and successful India tour marked his resurgence after domestic success and Inzamam’s retirement.
In the 45 matches that the right-hand batter played, the former Pakistan batter went on to score the most 2599 runs with an average of 58.09 along with five centuries as well as nineteen half-centuries.
2. 2440-Jack Hobbs
Jack Hobbs who was also nicknamed “The Master,” was one of cricket’s most prolific batters with 61,237 runs along with 197 centuries in first-class matches. The right-hand batter played for both Surrey and England was marked by consistency and elegance. The Great War and his team spirit often curtailed his scores. The former English batter maintained his form past 50 and meanwhile also held the record for the oldest Test century at 46.
In the 27 matches that the legendary batter played, he went on to score 2440 runs with an astonishing average of 58.089 with eight centuries and 11 half-centuries.
3. 1901-Patsy Hendren
Patsy Hendren, renowned for his batting with Middlesex and England, scored 170 centuries and amassed 57,610 runs at an average of 50.80. Despite their unorthodox style, his powerful drives, cuts, and bold hooking stood out. He played from 1909 to 1937 and excelled in using his feet on challenging pitches. Hendren was a skilled fielder, taking 725 catches.
In the 24 matches that Hendren played, he had scored a whopping 1901 runs at an average of 50.02 along with three boundaries and 12 half-centuries.