The realm of Test cricket, celebrated as the pinnacle of a cricketer’s talent and mental fortitude, has been graced by remarkable batting displays. These performances soar beyond the ordinary, transforming into monumental triple and even quadruple centuries that etch themselves into the sport’s annals.
Wiaan Mulder’s historic feat in Bulawayo
In a recent spectacle, the cricket community watched with bated breath as South Africa’s Wiaan Mulder came close to rewriting cricket history, achieving a staggering 367 not out from 334 balls against Zimbabwe in Bulawayo, 2025. His impressive innings included 43 boundaries and 4 sixes. Despite opting to declare, just shy of surpassing the all-time highest score, Mulder’s performance underscores his rising star and positions him among the cricketing legends celebrated for achieving outstanding individual scores in Test matches.
Here are the top 5 individual scores in Test cricket:
1. Brian Lara (West Indies) – 400 not out vs England, St. John’s, 2004
Considered a legend in Test cricket, Brian Lara is celebrated for his unmatched record of the highest individual score, achieving 400 not out against England in St. John’s, Antigua, back in 2004. This innings showcased extraordinary focus, graceful shots, and calculated aggression, symbolizing his skill under pressure. It remains an iconic moment, inspiring admiration and challenging future players.
2. Matthew Hayden (Australia) – 380 vs Zimbabwe, Perth, 2003
The honor of securing the second spot for the highest individual Test score is attributed to Australia’s formidable opening batsman, Matthew Hayden. His explosive 380 runs against Zimbabwe in Perth, 2003 showcased immense strength and relentless scoring. Known for his aggressive style, Hayden dominated Zimbabwe’s bowlers on a lively Perth pitch, reaching his triple century at an unprecedented speed. Despite the record’s brief tenure, Hayden’s 380 solidified his status as an impactful opener of his time.
Also READ: Top 5 highest scores by an England wicketkeeper in Test cricket ft. Jamie Smith
3. Brian Lara (West Indies) – 375 vs England, St. John’s, 1994
Lara’s initial mark in the record books was in 1994, when he delivered an imposing 375 against England, also in St. John’s. His signature technique, combined with exceptional timing and the ability to exploit gaps, allowed him to score runs elegantly and effectively. This innings stood out for its remarkable patience and skill, establishing a high standard for individual brilliance in Test cricket and suggesting his future achievement a decade later.
4. Mahela Jayawardene (Sri Lanka) – 374 vs South Africa, Colombo, 2006
The Sri Lankan star, Mahela Jayawardene, produced a stellar 374 against South Africa in Colombo in 2006, which marks the highest score by a right-handed batsman in Test cricket history. This memorable innings contributed to a record partnership of 624 runs with Kumar Sangakkara, further enhancing its importance. Jayawardene’s innings was characterized by its elegance, precise timing, and an expert understanding of familiar playing conditions. He carefully constructed his innings, capitalized on scoring opportunities, and exhibited a diverse range of shots.
5. Wiaan Mulder (South Africa) – 367 not out vs Zimbabwe, Bulawayo, 2025
The recent addition to this exclusive list, Mulder’s undefeated 367 against Zimbabwe in Bulawayo, 2025, has caused excitement in cricket circles. As acting captain, Mulder demonstrated remarkable poise and a newfound aggressive approach, taking command against the Zimbabwean bowlers. His innings showcased a blend of powerful strokes and calculated strategies, pushing South Africa to a substantial total. Despite the tactical choice to declare, which left him just short of Lara’s record, Mulder’s 367 stands as the highest score by a South African in Test matches and the fifth highest overall.
Also READ: Top 5 batters with most runs in a single Test ft. Shubman Gill
