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Test cricket is renowned as the most challenging format of the game due to the demanding conditions players must navigate. Unlike the limited-overs formats, Test cricket provides ample opportunities for players to showcase their abilities throughout a match. When considering Test cricket, we often envision batters scoring centuries and consuming numerous balls to accumulate runs. However, there have been instances where players have displayed extraordinary aggression, breaking records during their innings. We will delve into the fastest double centuries (200) achieved in the longest format of the game. The fastest double century was scored in just 153 balls. Interestingly, Virender Sehwag holds the record for three of the top ten fastest double centuries in Test cricket.
Let's take you through top 5 fastest double centurions in men's Test cricket:
5. Brendon McCullum's blitzkrieg against Pakistan in 2014:
Brendon McCullum holds the unique distinction of being the only New Zealand batsman to achieve a triple century in Test cricket. Additionally, he has also recorded the fastest double century for his country in the longest format of the game. This remarkable feat occurred against Pakistan in Sharjah in November 2014. McCullum achieved the double century in an astonishing 186 balls. His final score was 202 runs from 188 balls, including 21 fours and 11 sixes. This exceptional innings played a pivotal role in securing a victory for his team by an innings and 80 runs.
4. Virender Sehwag's lightning knock against Pakistan in 2006:
Virender Sehwag had a penchant for scoring big hundreds in Test cricket. One of his notable double centuries came against Pakistan in Lahore in January 2006. This match was unique as it only featured two innings. Pakistan declared their first innings at a formidable 679/7. Sehwag and Rahul Dravid formed a formidable opening partnership, adding 410 runs for the first wicket in just 76.5 overs. Sehwag achieved the double century in 186 balls and went on to score 254 runs from 247 balls, including 47 fours and one six.
3. Virender Sehwag's batting blitz against Sri Lanka in 2009
Virender Sehwag holds the unique distinction of being the only player to have scored three double centuries of over 290 runs in test cricket. His third-highest score of 293 runs came against Sri Lanka in December 2009 at Brabourne Stadium. He achieved a double century in 168 balls and finished with 293 runs from 254 balls, including 40 fours and seven sixes. Although Sehwag narrowly missed a triple century, India emerged victorious in the match by an innings and 24 runs.
2. Ben Stokes' double strike against South Africa in 2016:
Ben Stokes is widely regarded as one of the most influential players in contemporary cricket. His ability to impact the game in all facets makes him a match-winner. Stokes showcased his extraordinary batting prowess by scoring the second-fastest double century against South Africa in January 2016. In just 163 balls, he amassed 258 runs, including 30 fours and 11 sixes. His exceptional performance earned him the Man of the Match award.
1. Nathan Astle's cracking double ton against England in 2002:
The fastest double century in Test cricket was achieved in a losing cause. The record belongs to former New Zealand batsman Nathan Astle. He scored it in 153 balls against England in Christchurch in 2002. Astle's 222 runs came from 168 balls, including 28 fours and 11 sixes. New Zealand was chasing a target of 550 runs but was eventually bowled out for 451, resulting in a 98-run defeat.
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