Top 3 highest totals in Tests

The test is the most intense format of Cricket, with exceptional mind games on show. The classic approach seen in the red-ball game is still rated higher than the entertainment value limited-over formats provide. Tests are known for being run galore, which is natural given the number of overs played each day and the unlimited nature of the format. In a similar light, here is a look at the three highest totals in the history of the longest format.

3. England – 849 all out vs West Indies, 1930

In the fourth Test of the 1930 England tour of the West Indies, the visitors won the toss and elected to bat first. They posted a mammoth 849 runs on the scoreboard in their first innings in 258.2 overs. Andy Sandham scored 325 as Les Ames fell short of his 150 by one run. England was helped by handy contributions throughout the batting order. In reply, West Indies were bundled out for 286 as England added another 272 runs to their list. However, English efforts would ultimately go in vain as West Indies salvaged a draw out of the game where they were the favourites to lose most of the time.

2. England – 903/7 vs Australia, 1938

In 1938’s Ashes, England hosted Australia as they created the record for the highest team total in Tests, breaking their own record from 1930. England batted first in the fifth Test at the Oval and posted an unreal 903/7 before declaring. Opener Leonard Hutton scored a triple century – 364 off 847 balls as Maurice Leyland and Joe Hardstaff returned with 150s, scoring 187 and 169, respectively. In reply, the Aussies could reach nowhere near England’s total, getting bundled out for 201 and 123 in both their innings, respectively.

1. Sri Lanka – 952/6 vs India, 1997

In the first Test of the 1997 India tour of Sri Lanka, the visitors won the toss and elected to bat first. They put on a strong batting display, reaching 537/8 before declaring their innings. At this point in the game, India was quite content about their chances to win the game. Little did they know what awaited them in the game’s second innings. Sri Lanka started batting, but it seemed like they never stopped. Opener Sanath Jayasuriya scored a triple century – 340 off 578 balls while Roshan Mahanama returned with 225 off 561. Aravinda de Silva’s 126 off 211, followed by other handy contributions, Sri Lanka, reached 952/6 before the two sides decided on a mutual draw. The record is still untouched after more than two decades.