Synopsis
Test cricket is often associated with patience and long innings, but a few players have shattered that stereotype with lightning-fast double centuries. This article ranks the top 5 fastest double hundreds in Test history, showcasing some of the boldest and most explosive knocks ever played in the longest format.
Test cricket is traditionally known for patience and technique, but a handful of cricketers have turned the format on its head with blazing double centuries. Here’s a look at the top 5 fastest double hundreds in Test cricket counting down from No. 5 to No. 1.
5. Brendon McCullum – 186 Balls vs Pakistan (Sharjah, 2014)
- Reached 200 off just 186 balls.
- Finished with 202 runs from only 188 deliveries.
- His innings included 21 fours and 11 sixes.
- Helped New Zealand secure a massive win by an innings and 80 runs.
- One of the most fearless displays of attacking Test cricket by a captain.
4. Virender Sehwag – 182 Balls vs Pakistan (Lahore, 2006)
- Blasted his double century in 182 balls.
- Ended with 254 off 247 balls in a whirlwind knock.
- Hit 47 boundaries and a six.
- Shared a 410-run opening partnership with Rahul Dravid.
- The match ended in a high-scoring draw, but Sehwag’s knock became iconic.
3. Virender Sehwag – 168 Balls vs Sri Lanka (Mumbai, 2009)
- Reached his double century in just 168 deliveries.
- Scored 293 runs from 254 balls with 40 fours and 7 sixes.
- Dominated the Sri Lankan bowling attack from start to finish.
- Played a key role in India’s innings-and-24-run win.
- One of the most aggressive innings ever by an Indian Test batter.
2. Ben Stokes – 163 Balls vs South Africa (Cape Town, 2016)
- Smashed a double century in just 163 balls.
- Ended with 258 runs off 198 balls, featuring 30 fours and 11 sixes.
- Completely dismantled the South African bowling lineup.
- Earned Player of the Match honors in a Test that ended in a draw.
- A knock that announced Stokes as a true all-format star.
1. Nathan Astle – 153 Balls vs England (Christchurch, 2002)
- Holds the record for the fastest double century in Test history: 153 balls.
- Scored 222 runs off only 168 deliveries.
- His innings included 28 fours and 11 sixes.
- Achieved in the fourth innings of a match making it even more remarkable.
- Though New Zealand lost, Astle’s knock remains legendary.
Written by RITESH SINGH