Top 5 Fastest Double Centuries in Test Cricket History; Check the complete list

by | July 7, 2025 8:15 pm

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.

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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 

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