Test cricket, known for its strategic battles and enduring displays of skill, can also erupt into scoring extravaganzas. Here, we delve into the top five instances where teams piled on the most runs in a single day of a Test match:
1. England vs India (588/6, July 1936): A scorching July day in Manchester witnessed a run-fest for the ages. England amassed a staggering 398 runs after resuming Day 2, and India responded with a spirited 190 runs. This record-breaking 588-run total in a single day remains unmatched.
2. England vs South Africa (522/2, June 1924): Lord’s played host to another phenomenal batting display in 1924. England, led by Jack Hobbs’ double century (211), piled on 503 runs in a day, with Herbert Sutcliffe (122) and Frank Woolley (134*) joining the party. South Africa could only manage 19 runs in reply, making this a day dominated by English batsmanship.
3. Sri Lanka vs Bangladesh (509/9, July 2002): Aravinda de Silva’s masterclass (206) spearheaded a Sri Lankan onslaught in Colombo. After dismissing Bangladesh cheaply, Sri Lanka feasted on the bowling, adding a remarkable 509 runs on Day 2. Captain Sanath Jayasuriya (145) provided crucial support as Sri Lanka marched towards a dominant victory.
4. England vs South Africa (508/8, August 1935): The fifth Test of the 1935 series at The Oval witnessed another run-glut. Resuming Day 3 in a strong position, England added 221 runs, with Wally Hammond (161) and Maurice Leyland (148) leading the charge. South Africa chipped in with 287/6, pushing the day’s total to a mind-boggling 508 runs.
5. England vs Pakistan (506/4, December 2022): This recent encounter showcases the evolving nature of Test cricket. Influenced by the shorter formats and their aggressive “Bazball” approach, England piled on a massive 506 runs in just 75 overs on Day 1 at Rawalpindi. Zak Crawley (122), Ben Duckett (107), Ollie Pope (104), and Harry Brook (153) all smashed centuries, proving that rapid run-scoring can thrive even in the Test arena.
These exceptional days stand as testaments to the enduring spirit of batsmanship in Test cricket, showcasing both its traditional finesse and the modern emphasis on aggression.