Test cricket is considered the most challenging and prestigious format of the game. A double century (200 or more runs in a single innings) by a batsman is a testament to their exceptional technique, patience, and mental fortitude.
Test Records: Test cricket is considered the most challenging and prestigious format of the game. A player scoring a double century (i.e., 200 or more runs in a single innings) is not just a large number on the scoreboard, but also evidence of their technical proficiency, patience, and mental strength. In this historic format, many legendary batsmen have won the hearts of cricket fans with their performances.
Scoring double centuries is not easy for every batsman, but some exceptional players have repeatedly achieved this feat, etching their names in history. Let's take a look at the top 5 batsmen with the most double centuries in Test cricket:
1. Don Bradman (Australia) – 12 Double Centuries
- Total Tests: 52
- Total Runs: 6996
- Highest Score: 334
- Average: 99.94
Sir Don Bradman, arguably the greatest batsman in Test cricket history, tops this list. He scored 12 double centuries in just 52 Test matches during his short but incredibly impactful career. His batting average of 99.94 remains an unparalleled record in Test cricket to this day. He achieved this feat in just 80 innings.
Bradman's batting technique, footwork, and hunger for runs set him apart from other players. Even today, when batting is discussed, Bradman is seen as a golden standard.
2. Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka) – 11 Double Centuries
- Total Tests: 134
- Total Runs: 12400
- Highest Score: 319
- Average: 57.40
Former Sri Lankan captain and brilliant right-handed batsman Kumar Sangakkara is second on this list with 11 double centuries in Test cricket. He scored 12400 runs in 233 innings of 134 Test matches. Sangakkara's batting showcased a remarkable balance of technique and composure. He repeatedly rescued the team in difficult situations and played many memorable innings.
3. Brian Lara (West Indies) – 9 Double Centuries
- Total Tests: 131
- Total Runs: 11953
- Highest Score: 400*
- Average: 52.88
West Indies legend Brian Lara is considered one of the most captivating and stylish batsmen in cricket history. He scored 9 double centuries in his career and also holds the record for the highest individual score in Test cricket with an unbeaten 400. Lara's batting was a blend of artistry and aggression, which was nothing short of a thrilling experience to watch. His innings of 400 runs is still considered an example of a living legend.
4. Wally Hammond (England) – 7 Double Centuries
- Total Tests: 85
- Total Runs: 7249
- Highest Score: 336*
- Average: 58.45
England's great batsman Wally Hammond was one of the most reliable names in cricket in the 1930s. He scored 7 double centuries in 85 Test matches. His best score was an unbeaten 336 runs. Hammond's batting combined power and style. He remained the backbone of England's batting for a long time, and many of his records remained unbroken for decades.
5. Virat Kohli (India) – 7 Double Centuries
- Total Tests: 123
- Total Runs: 9230
- Highest Score: 254*
- Average: 46.85
Former Indian captain and modern-day great batsman Virat Kohli is also on this list. He has scored 7 double centuries in his Test career. Kohli's highest score is an unbeaten 254 runs. Kohli, who recently stepped down from Test cricket, has consistently performed well for India in all three formats for a long time. His innings in Test cricket have won many matches for India, and he is considered one of the most focused and fit players of this era.
