David Warner and Nathan Lyon don’t make Australia’s best Test XI – 1985-2025
The last 40 years have been a golden era for Australian Test cricket, producing a succession of world-class players. Selecting the best XI from this period is a challenging task, as it necessitates leaving out numerous exceptional talents.
Notably, this selection excludes prominent figures such as David Warner, Allan Border, Mark Waugh, Brett Lee, Mitchell Johnson, and Nathan Lyon.
The chosen XI is based on performances specific to each batting position; the statistics presented reflect runs scored and averages achieved while occupying those positions.
1. Matthew Hayden – 8,625 runs as opener from 103 Tests
Matthew Hayden was a dominant left-handed opener renowned for his aggressive batting style. His powerful stroke play and resilience at the crease made him a formidable opponent for any bowling attack.
Hayden’s career was highlighted by numerous match-winning innings, including a remarkable 380 against Zimbabwe in 2003, which was the highest individual Test score at the time.
2. Usman Khawaja – 3,289 runs as opener from 40 Tests
Usman Khawaja has been a stylish and technically proficient top-order batsman. His elegant stroke play and calm demeanour have been instrumental in providing stability at the top of the order.
Khawaja’s ability to adapt to various conditions and his consistent performances have solidified his place in the team.
3. Ricky Ponting – 9,904 runs at number 3 from 113 Tests
Ricky Ponting, one of Australia‘s most successful captains, was known for his aggressive batting and astute leadership. Batting at number three, he accumulated 9904 runs in 113 Tests at an average of 56.27.
Ponting’s pull shot was particularly feared, and his ability to dominate bowling attacks was a hallmark of his career. He led Australia to numerous victories, including two consecutive ICC Cricket World Cup wins in 2003 and 2007.
4. Steve Smith – 6,531 runs at number 4 from 74 Tests
Steve Smith‘s unorthodox batting technique has been highly effective, making him one of the premier batsmen of his era. At number four, he has scored 6531 runs in 74 Tests at an average of 61.61.
Smith’s exceptional hand-eye coordination and concentration have enabled him to play long innings, often under pressure. His performances have been pivotal in many of Australia’s successes.
5. Michael Clarke – 5,959 runs at number 5 from 72 Tests
Michael Clarke was a stylish middle-order batsman known for his elegant stroke play and tactical acumen. Batting at number five, he amassed 5959 runs in 72 Tests at an average of 60.80.
Clarke’s ability to play both spin and pace with equal proficiency made him a versatile and dependable batsman. His leadership qualities were also evident during his tenure as captain.
6. Steve Waugh (captain) – 3,165 run sat number 6 from 66 Tests
Steve Waugh was renowned for his grit and determination. Batting at number six, he scored 3165 runs in 66 Tests at an average of 51.04. Waugh’s ability to perform under pressure and his resilience at the crease were instrumental in many of Australia’s hard-fought victories.
His leadership and mental toughness set a benchmark for future generations and while this team is packed with leaders – Ponting, Clarke, Smith, Cummins and even Shane Warne were all excellent captains, it is hard to look past Waugh as the standard bearer of captaincy excellence.
7. Adam Gilchrist (wicketkeeper) – 3,948 runs at number 7 from 82 Tests
Adam Gilchrist redefined the role of the wicketkeeper-batsman with his aggressive batting and reliable glove work. At number seven, he scored 3948 runs in 82 Tests at an average of 46.44.
Gilchrist’s attacking approach often shifted the momentum in Australia’s favour, and his presence added depth to the batting lineup. Behind the stumps, he was known for his agility and sharp reflexes.
8. Shane Warne – 708 wickets from 145 Tests
Shane Warne was a legendary leg-spinner whose mastery of spin bowling mesmerized batsmen worldwide. He took 708 wickets in 145 Test cricket matches at an average of 25.41.
Warne’s ability to turn the ball sharply and his tactical intelligence made him a match-winner. His duels with some of the best batsmen of his time are etched in cricketing folklore.
9. Pat Cummins – 297 wickets from 67 Tests
Pat Cummins has emerged as one of the leading fast bowlers in modern cricket. With 297 wickets in 67 Tests at an average of 22.43, his pace, accuracy, and resilience have been key assets for Australia.
Cummins’ ability to bowl long spells and his effectiveness in various conditions have made him a spearhead of the Australian bowling attack.
10. Terry Alderman – 91 wickets from 19 Tests
Terry Alderman was a skilled swing bowler known for his exceptional performances in English conditions. He took 91 wickets in 19 Tests at an average of 22.18.
Alderman’s ability to move the ball both ways and his strategic approach to bowling made him a valuable asset, particularly during the Ashes series.
11. Glenn McGrath – 563 wickets from 124 Tests
Glenn McGrath was a metronomic fast bowler whose precision and consistency were unparalleled. He claimed 563 wickets in 124 Tests at an average of 21.64.
McGrath’s ability to exploit even the slightest weaknesses in batsmen’s techniques made him one of the most successful bowlers in Test history. His partnerships with fellow bowlers were instrumental in Australia’s dominance.
12. Mike Hussey – 6,235 runs from 79 Tests
Nicknamed Mr. Cricket for his dedication to the game and textbook technique, Mike Hussey was a rock in Australia’s middle order during one of the most competitive eras in world cricket.
While he doesn’t slot into the starting XI here due to the sheer quality ahead of him, his Test average of 51.52 speaks volumes about his class and consistency. A late bloomer by international standards, Hussey made his Test debut at 30, but quickly proved he belonged, piling up runs with impeccable timing and mental toughness.
He could bat anywhere in the top six, played spin and pace equally well, and was particularly known for his composure under pressure. Beyond his batting, Hussey was a brilliant fielder and a tireless team man — which makes him the ideal 12th man in this star-studded side.
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