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Top 5 run scorers in Tests between 2000-2005

Australia v New Zealand X
Justin Langer

There are certain eras in the history of Test cricket which are remembered for a variety of reasons.

The period between 2000 and 2005 is significant for a number of reasons. First, it was the first half a decade after the turn of the century and the millennium, which is why the batsmen who performed during that period will always have a special place in the record book.

In addition to that, it was an era in which some of the best batsmen in the game's history played together. Some of the highest ever scorers in Test cricket played during that period and plundered runs all over the world.

Here is a look at 5 of the top scorers in the first half a decade of the new millennium.

5 Justin Langer

The former Australian batsman batted at number three for some time before graduating on to the opening position for one of the finest cricket teams to have ever played the game.

What was particularly remarkable about Langer's batting following his elevation to the opener's slot was the new found aggression that he brought to his game, and how he seemed to go after fast bowlers from the outset, irrespective of conditions.

That being said, Langer's technique was extremely tight and loose shots were rare, which is why from the 5-year period between 2000 and 2005, he amassed 5524 runs at an average of 50.21 in 67 Test matches.

Langer recorded a strike rate of 58.66 and hit as many as 17 centuries along with 20 half-centuries to emerge as one of the world's best batsmen during that era. Much of Australia's success at that time depended on the excellence of Langer. 

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