Test matches are the most interesting of all formats. For real cricket fans, a five-day test is still more enjoyable than the momentary adrenalin rushes that limited-overs cricket provides. The longest format of the game produces jaw-dropping records from time to time. One such record is for the longest spells in terms of overs bowled in an innings; the numbers are certain to raise your eyebrows. Here are the three longest bowling spells in Tests of all time.
3. Alf Valentine (West Indies) – 92 overs
On number three, we have a West Indies legendary left-arm spinner, Alf Valentine. Known for his exceptional bowling average and ability to break partnerships, Alf Valentine also holds the unique record of bowling the third-highest number of overs in a single innings of a Test match. In 1950, West Indies played England in Nottingham. Historically, Valentine delivered 92 overs in the second innings. Notably, of the 92 overs he bowled, 49 were maidens. He returned with figures of 3/140 as West Indies thrashed England by 10 wickets.
2. Tom Vievers (Australia) – 95.1 overs
Australia’s right-arm off-spinner, Tom Vievers, who did not play too many games for Australia, however, holds a unique record. In the 1964 Ashes series during the Manchester Test, Tom Vievers went on to bowl 95.1 overs in the first innings. He returned with figures of 3/155, but the match remained a draw despite Viever’s tireless bowling. Both teams scored 600+ runs in their first innings, leading to a shortage of time for a result to be made in the Test. However, the game remains memorable for Viever’s unique record.
1. Sonny Ramadhin (West Indies) – 98 overs
On number one, we have another West Indies player, the right-arm off-spinner Sonny Ramadhin. In 1957’s Birmingham Test, Ramadhin shocked everyone in the cricket community as he created a unique record by bowling 98 overs in the second innings, including 35 maiden overs. Ramadhin returned with figures of 3/179 in the innings and completed an overall 11 wickets in the match, having taken seven wickets in the first innings. The game remained a draw as West Indies avoided a defeat in the final innings. They lost 7 wickets for 72 runs inside 60 overs but could finally salvage a draw. The match, however, would be iconic for Ramadhin’s untouchable record.