OTD| Adam Gilchrist annihilated the South African attack with the fastest Test double-century at the time in 2002

Adam Gilchrist is arguably the greatest wicket keeper-batter in the history of this game. He was equally impactful with both his batting and wicket keeping. Gilchrist was one of the trailblazers who changed the perception of batting in world cricket with his fearless approach. On this day he scored the fastest double-century, at the time, in 2002 against South Africa. A menacing onslaught from the Australian left the Proteas bowling lineup in disarray. 

Gilchrist goes berserk

The Australian skipper Steve Waugh chose to bat first after winning the toss in the first match of the Test series in Johannesburg. The Australians started their batting stint on a rapid note with Matthew Hayden and Justin Langer accumulating quick runs. But Langer’s stay was cut short by Allan Donald. Australia developed a couple of more partnerships but could not capitalize on them. When Gilchrist walked into bat Australia had lost 5 wickets with 293 runs on the board. The Aussies needed vital lower-order contributions to expand the total. 

Adam Gilchrist stepped up at the right time and built a crucial partnership with Damien Martyn. Gilchrist himself played the role of an aggressor and smashed the South African bowlers around the park. In the process, he completed his double-century in 212 deliveries breaking the previous record held by England’s Ian Botham who had scored a double hundred off 220 balls. 

Courtesy of Gilchrist’s explosive double-century Australia scored 652 runs before declaring their innings. Damien Martyn also played a key role with 133 runs to his name. This first-innings total was beyond the reach of the South African batters. They got bowled out for just 159 runs in the first innings and were forced to follow on. The situation got worse in the second innings and Australia restricted the home team to 133 runs. As a result, the Kangaroos won the match by an innings and 360 runs. Adam Gilchrist was awarded the player of the match for his extraordinary double century.