As anticipation builds for the India vs South Africa Test series beginning November 14, 2025, legendary South African batsman Hashim Amla has stirred debate by revealing his picks for the top three Test batters of all time—and notably, Virat Kohli does not feature on his list. Amla’s selections, shared in a pre-series interview, have sparked widespread discussion across cricketing circles, especially given Kohli’s stature and record in the longest format of the game.
Hashim Amla’s Top 3 Test Batters of All Time
According to Amla, the three greatest Test batters in history are:
- Steve Smith (Australia)
- Joe Root (England)
- Kane Williamson (New Zealand)
Amla praised these players for their consistency, adaptability across conditions, and ability to anchor innings under pressure. He emphasized that his choices reflect a blend of technique, temperament, and longevity in the modern era.
| Player | Country | Test Matches | Runs | Average | Centuries |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Steve Smith | Australia | 105 | 9,450+ | 58.61 | 32 |
| Joe Root | England | 140+ | 11,200+ | 50.25 | 31 |
| Kane Williamson | New Zealand | 98 | 8,300+ | 54.89 | 29 |
Why Virat Kohli Was Left Out
Despite Kohli’s impressive record—8,900+ Test runs, 29 centuries, and a career average hovering around 49—Amla did not include him in his top three. He acknowledged Kohli’s impact on Indian cricket and his aggressive leadership style but suggested that his picks were based on “pure Test match consistency and technique across eras.”
This omission has sparked debate among fans and analysts, many of whom argue that Kohli’s performances in Australia, England, and South Africa make him a strong contender for any all-time list.
Kohli’s Test Record Compared
| Player | Matches | Runs | Average | Centuries | Away Centuries |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Virat Kohli | 113 | 8,900+ | 49.35 | 29 | 15 |
| Steve Smith | 105 | 9,450+ | 58.61 | 32 | 13 |
| Joe Root | 140+ | 11,200+ | 50.25 | 31 | 17 |
| Kane Williamson | 98 | 8,300+ | 54.89 | 29 | 12 |
Kohli’s away record is particularly strong, with centuries in Australia, England, South Africa, and New Zealand—something few modern batters have achieved.
Reactions from Cricketing World
Amla’s picks have drawn mixed reactions:
- Supporters argue that Smith, Root, and Williamson have shown greater consistency in pure Test match batting.
- Critics point out Kohli’s match-winning knocks and leadership in overseas conditions.
- Indian fans have expressed disappointment, citing Kohli’s role in transforming India’s Test team into a dominant force.
IND vs SA Series Preview
The upcoming two-match Test series between India and South Africa promises high drama. India, led by Shubman Gill, will host the Proteas at Eden Gardens and Wankhede Stadium. Kohli is expected to return to the playing XI after a brief injury layoff.
| Match | Venue | Date |
|---|---|---|
| 1st Test | Eden Gardens, Kolkata | Nov 14–18, 2025 |
| 2nd Test | Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai | Nov 22–26, 2025 |
Kohli’s Opportunity to Respond on the Field
With Amla’s comments making headlines, Kohli has a chance to let his bat do the talking. A strong performance against South Africa could reignite the debate and reaffirm his place among the modern greats.
Conclusion
Hashim Amla’s selection of Steve Smith, Joe Root, and Kane Williamson as the top three Test batters of all time—excluding Virat Kohli—has added a layer of intrigue to the IND vs SA series. While opinions may vary, the conversation underscores the richness of Test cricket and the legacy of its finest practitioners. As Kohli prepares to take the field, fans and pundits alike will be watching closely to see if he can deliver a statement performance.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available interviews and cricket statistics. Rankings and opinions are subjective and reflect individual perspectives. Readers are encouraged to follow official match updates and player records for verified information.
