Test cricket, known as the ultimate format of the sport, has witnessed some extraordinary batting performances over the years. From legendary players to unforgettable moments, the history of Test cricket is adorned with remarkable innings. One of the most crucial statistics in the game is the highest 1st innings score in a Test match. It not only showcases a team’s dominance but also the individual brilliance of batsmen. In this article, we will delve into the top 7 highest 1st innings scores in Test cricket history, highlighting the exceptional batting displays that have enthralled fans around the world.
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1. England- 903/7 vs Australia (August, 1938)
England has secured the first ranking with the highest first innings score in Test Cricket. This noteworthy achievement came into play during a test match against Australia in August 1938, when England amassed an impressive total of 903 for seven wickets down. The substantial tally was spearheaded by opener Leonard Hutton who dominated the field with a commanding triple century totalling 364 runs. Additional commendable performances were demonstrated by Joe Hardstaff and Maurice Leyland, each contributing significant centuries to England’s overall score. The encounter culminated with an emphatic victory for England, triumphing over their opponent through an exceptional margin of an innings and 579 runs.
2. England- 849/10 vs West Indies (April, 1930)
England has secured the second position in the record of highest first innings score in Test cricket history. In April 1930, England achieved an impressive score of 849 against the West Indies, a significant accomplishment spearheaded by Andy Sandham’s remarkable triple century (325) during the first innings. Although this match concluded with a draw, it established England as a formidable entity within Test history and added a prestigious historical record to their name.
3. West Indies- 751/5 vs England (April, 2004)
Securing the third position on the list of highest first innings score in Test cricket history is none other than the esteemed West Indies team. This commendable achievement was largely attributed to Brian Lara’s exceptional performance against England in April 2004, where he delivered an unbeaten knock of 400 runs. With this extraordinary feat, Lara made history by becoming the inaugural player to attain a four-hundred run mark in Tests – a record that perseveres as unsurpassed within this longest format of cricket till date. Nevertheless, it should also be noted that despite such individual brilliance exhibited during the match, it concluded in a draw.
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4. Australia- 735/6 vs Zimbabwe (October, 2003)
In 2003, during a Test match against Zimbabwe, Australia displayed a record-shattering performance by scoring 735/6 during the first innings. This was largely buoyed by Matthew Hayden’s outstanding triple century (380 runs). With this achievement, the Australian opening batsman successfully broke the highest Test knock record. The prosperous game concluded with a staggering victory for Australia as they outpaced Zimbabwe by an innings and a significant lead of 175 runs.
5. Pakistan- 708/10 vs England (August, 1987)
In August 1987, during a test cricket competition against England, Pakistan achieved an impressive score of 708/10 in the first innings. Spearheading this extraordinary batting performance was Javed Miandad who amassed an exceptional score of 260 and notably surpassed the noteworthy double-century mark. Both Saleem Malik and Imran Khan also contributed significantly by accomplishing centuries each to their names in this match which ultimately culminated in a draw.
6. India- 705/7 vs Australia (January, 2004)
India has registered its name in the record books with one of the highest first innings score in Test cricket history, tallying an imposing 705/7 against Australia. This historical match was conducted in January 2004 at Sydney and became a momentous occasion for Sachin Tendulkar (241*) and VVS Laxman (178), as they spearheaded India’s commendable performance with bat. Although the game culminated in a standstill owing to Australia’s robust batting line up delivering sterling displays across both innings, it undeniably highlighted Indian Cricket Team’s prowess on international soil.
7. Australia- 701/10 vs England (August, 1934)
During a Test match against England in August 1934, Australia notched up a monumental total of 701/10 in their 1st innings. Don Bradman and Bill Ponsford led the charge with double centuries, setting the stage for Australia’s emphatic victory by 562 runs. Supported by a strong batting lineup, Australia’s monumental total laid the foundation for a comprehensive victory and highlighted their dominance in Test cricket during that era.