Greatest Left Handed Batsmen in Cricket have always brought a unique charm and flair to the game. Though they are fewer in number compared to right-handers, many of them have become legends with their stylish strokeplay, elegant timing, and match-winning knocks. Their unorthodox angles and bold approach often put bowlers on the back foot. In this article, we explore the stories and statistics of the Greatest Left Handed Batsmen in Cricket history.
List of Top 10 Greatest Left Handed Batsmen in Cricket History
10. Matthew Hayden

Matthew Hayden was a powerhouse at the top of the order for Australia. Widely regarded as one of the Greatest Left Handed Batsmen in Cricket, he was known for his aggressive strokeplay and sheer dominance over bowlers, playing a crucial role in many Australian victories during the early 2000s.
Format | Matches | Runs | Highest Score |
---|---|---|---|
Tests | 103 | 8,625 | 380 |
ODIs | 161 | 6,133 | 181 |
T20Is | N/A | N/A | N/A |
9. Saeed Anwar

Among the Greatest Left Handed Batsmen in Cricket, Pakistan’s graceful opener Saeed Anwar was admired for his fluent drives and calm demeanor at the crease. His innings of 194 in ODIs remained the highest individual score for many years.
Format | Matches | Runs | Highest Score |
---|---|---|---|
Tests | 55 | 4,052 | 188 |
ODIs | 247 | 8,824 | 194 |
T20Is | N/A | N/A | N/A |
8. Allan Border

Allan Border was Australia’s backbone in the 1980s. He combined grit with elegance and became one of the most dependable batsmen of his era, also leading Australia as captain during a transitional period.
Format | Matches | Runs | Highest Score |
---|---|---|---|
Tests | 156 | 11,174 | 205 |
ODIs | 273 | 6,524 | 127 |
T20Is | N/A | N/A | N/A |
7. Sanath Jayasuriya

Sanath Jayasuriya revolutionized opening batting in ODIs with his fearless hitting. His contributions helped Sri Lanka secure the 1996 World Cup, and he remained a dangerous player for more than a decade.
Format | Matches | Runs | Highest Score |
---|---|---|---|
Tests | 110 | 6,973 | 340 |
ODIs | 445 | 13,430 | 189 |
T20Is | 31 | 629 | 88 |
6. Clive Lloyd

Clive Lloyd was a pillar of West Indian cricket during its golden era. With his tall frame and powerful strokes, he led the team to multiple World Cup wins and left a strong legacy as a batsman and captain.
Format | Matches | Runs | Highest Score |
---|---|---|---|
Tests | 110 | 7,515 | 242 |
ODIs | 87 | 1,977 | 102 |
T20Is | N/A | N/A | N/A |
5. Kumar Sangakkara
Elegant, consistent, and dependable — Kumar Sangakkara was the epitome of class in international cricket. He thrived in all three formats and was also a brilliant wicketkeeper.

Format | Matches | Runs | Highest Score |
---|---|---|---|
Tests | 134 | 12,400 | 319 |
ODIs | 404 | 14,234 | 169 |
T20Is | 56 | 1,382 | 78 |
4. Adam Gilchrist

Adam Gilchrist changed the game with his aggressive batting from the wicketkeeper’s spot, cementing his place among the Greatest Left Handed Batsmen in Cricket. A fierce striker and clutch performer, he delivered memorable innings in both Tests and ODIs.
Format | Matches | Runs | Highest Score |
---|---|---|---|
Tests | 96 | 5,570 | 204 |
ODIs | 287 | 9,619 | 172 |
T20Is | 13 | 272 | 48 |
3. Sir Garry Sobers

A true legend of the sport, Sir Garry Sobers was more than just a batsman—he was an all-round genius. His 365* in Tests stood as a record for many years, showcasing his batting greatness.
Format | Matches | Runs | Highest Score |
---|---|---|---|
Tests | 93 | 8,032 | 365* |
ODIs | N/A | N/A | N/A |
T20Is | N/A | N/A | N/A |
2. Sourav Ganguly

Sourav Ganguly, fondly called “Dada”, was not only a match-winner but also one of India’s most influential captains, and he is often regarded as one of the Greatest Left Handed Batsmen in Cricket. His bold leadership and elegant cover drives are still remembered fondly.
Format | Matches | Runs | Highest Score |
---|---|---|---|
Tests | 113 | 7,212 | 239 |
ODIs | 311 | 11,363 | 183 |
T20Is | N/A | N/A | N/A |
1. Brian Lara

Brian Lara is a name synonymous with greatness. Widely regarded as one of the Greatest Left Handed Batsmen in Cricket, his flamboyant strokeplay and ability to play big innings under pressure make him arguably the best left-hander of all time.
Format | Matches | Runs | Highest Score |
---|---|---|---|
Tests | 131 | 11,953 | 400* |
ODIs | 299 | 10,405 | 169 |
T20Is | N/A | N/A | N/A |
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