Fastest Runners Between the Wickets in Cricket History
Running speed between the wickets has always been a crucial but underrated skill in cricket. While big shots grab headlines, quick singles, sharp doubles, and smart running often decide close matches. Over the years, several cricketers have stood out for their exceptional running speed, agility, and fitness.
Here’s a look at some of the fastest runners between the wickets in cricket history who changed the game with their pace.
Top 10 Quickest Runners Between the Wickets in International Cricket
1. Virat Kohli – Speed and Fitness Combined
Virat Kohli is widely regarded as one of the quickest runners in modern cricket. With a top speed of around 32.5 km/h, Kohli turned running between the wickets into an art form.
Known for sharp singles and aggressive doubles, Kohli’s fitness revolutionised Indian cricket. He also holds multiple batting records, including the most ODI centuries. His ability to convert ones into twos consistently makes him one of the top cricket players with fast running.
2. Jonty Rhodes – The Original Speed Icon
Jonty Rhodes remains a benchmark for speed and athleticism in cricket. Clocking nearly 30.5 km/h, he was not only a brilliant fielder but also extremely quick between the wickets.
Nicknamed the “God of Fielding,” Rhodes’ explosive sprinting and anticipation made him one of the fastest cricketers between wickets in the history of the game.
3. MS Dhoni – Power with Quick Acceleration
MS Dhoni surprised many with his burst speed, reaching around 31.7 km/h at his peak. Despite his strong build, Dhoni was exceptional at stealing singles and turning half-chances into runs.
Famous for his calm approach and quick judgment, Dhoni was among the most efficient runners in international cricket, especially during pressure situations.
4. Glenn Maxwell – Lightning Quick All-Rounder
Glenn Maxwell is known for his athletic frame and explosive running speed, touching nearly 30.5 km/h. His fast reaction time and aggressive intent make him one of the most agile runners in cricket.
Maxwell’s speed complements his unorthodox batting style, helping him dominate run chases with quick singles and sharp doubles.
5. Dwayne Bravo – Speed with Energy
Dwayne “DJ” Bravo combined energy, athleticism, and speed, reaching about 31 km/h during his playing days. Whether batting or fielding, Bravo’s movement was always sharp.
His quick running added value in close games, making him one of the fast-moving cricketers of the T20 era.
6. Hardik Pandya – Fast and Fearless
Hardik Pandya’s running speed of approximately 31 km/h places him among the quickest all-rounders in cricket. Known for his aggressive mindset, Pandya takes calculated risks between the wickets.
His pace, combined with strength and timing, allows him to convert singles effortlessly even under pressure.
7. AB de Villiers – The Complete Athlete
AB de Villiers was often described as running “like a train.” His acceleration, balance, and stamina made him one of the most dynamic runners between the wickets.
A multiple-time ICC award winner, AB’s quick movement played a major role in his ability to dominate bowlers across formats.
8. Brendon McCullum – Aggression Meets Speed
Brendon McCullum brought aggression and high-speed running to New Zealand cricket. With a speed close to 30 km/h, he was known for fast starts and fearless intent.
His quick decision-making and sprinting ability made him one of the most impactful fast runners in cricket history.
9. David Warner – Explosive Running Style
David Warner’s aggressive batting is perfectly supported by his quick sprinting between wickets. His ability to judge risky singles and react instantly puts pressure on fielding sides.
Warner remains one of the fastest opening batsmen in international cricket, especially in limited-overs formats.
10. Mohammad Kaif – Speed and Sharp Reflexes
Mohammad Kaif was known for his exceptional fitness and reflexes, reaching speeds close to 30 km/h. His running between the wickets was as impressive as his fielding.
Kaif’s quick sprints and smart placements made him one of the most reliable runners in Indian cricket history.
Final Thoughts
Fast running between the wickets is a skill built on fitness, awareness, and intent. These players didn’t just score runs—they created them through speed. Their ability to pressure fielders and turn tight moments into advantages set them apart as some of the fastest runners the game has ever seen.
