In Test cricket, there is absolutely no pressure of time to restrict a batsman. The batsmen can get themselves in and adjust to the conditions before taking off in style. It is the beauty of Test cricket as on working hard, the results pay off soon. Batsmen who are set can make it count by playing a big one while toying away with the bowling.
The landmark of the team total of 500 is said to be a significant one. A team scoring 500 or more, in all probability is likely to save the game and then eventually go for the kill. A total in excess of 500 is an indication of the fact that the batsmen have done their work and it’s now time for the bowlers to do it.
In this article, we have a look at the top 10 sides with the most totals in excess of 500.
10. Zimbabwe (5 times):
The Zimbabweans have made 500 or more in an innings on just five occasions. The side has played 197 test matches and batted in 185 innings. The side manages a 500+ score once every 37 innings on an average, which is the least among all the teams. Their highest team total came against the West Indies, when they scored 563-9 dec.
9. Bangladesh (5 times):
The Asian side has also scored 500 or more on 5 occasions. The only reason they are ahead of Zimbabwe is that the Bangladeshis have scored it in fewer innings and score 500 or more once in every 36 innings. Their highest test total came against the Sri Lankans in Galle in 2013, when they scored 638 in 196 overs. It was a game in which skipper Mushfiqur Rahim became the first Bangladeshi batsman to score a double ton.
8. New Zealand (29 times):
The New Zealanders have achieved the feat 29 times in 401 test matches and after batting in 743 innings. Their highest team total was raised in alien conditions away from home. The Kiwis made 690 against Pakistan in Sharjah to record their highest team total. They score a 500+ score once in every 26 innings.
7. Sri Lanka (31 times):
The Sri Lankans were a strong batting unit right from the beginning. It is no surprise that the side has managed the feat 31 times. Sri Lanka has scored 500 or more on 31 occasions while playing in just 235 test matches and while batting in 423 innings. They score 500+ once in every 14 innings, which is 4th best among all the nations. Sri Lanka’s highest total was 952-6 dec against India.
6. Pakistan (49 times):
In 389 tests and after batting in 693 innings, the Pakistanis have crossed the total of 500 on 49 occasions. The batting pitches in Pakistan and UAE (supposed home venue) have been highly in favour of the batsmen which has aided them. Their highest score of 765 for 6 dec. came against Sri Lanka at Karachi in 2009. Like Sri Lanka, Pakistan too scores a 500+ total once every 14 innings.
5. South Africa (50 times):
After batting in 712 innings from 390 tests, the Proteas have scored totals in excess of 500 on 50 occasions. Their highest test score was 682-6 dec. which was scored against England at the Lord’s. The current mace holders of test cricket have some terrific batsmen in their ranks to increase their tally for sure.
4. West Indies (67 times):
The Calypso Kings have played 507 test matches and batted in 917 innings. They have achieved the distinction on 67 occasions, which is the fourth best among all the teams. Their highest score of 790 for 3 dec. came against Pakistan at Kingston in 1958. The West Indians have always had one batsman in their side that alone could dominate the opposition and get the team pass the 500 run mark. This was a key reason for the team to achieve the feat.
3. India (71 times):
India has scored 500 or more in an innings on 71 occasions, which is the third best. The Indians have achieved the feat in 487 test matches and after batting in 868 innings. Their greatest total was 726-6 against Sri Lanka at the Brabourne Stadium in Mumbai when opener Virender Sehwag scored an epic knock of 293. India scores a 500+ total once in every 13 innings, which is the second best.
2. England (101 times):
The English have achieved the distinction on a staggering 101 times! However, they have played the maximum number of test matches as well with 957 matches. The English have batted in 1716 innings. Their highest test score of 903 for 7 dec. came against Australia at The Oval in 1938.
1. Australia (132 times):
Another cricket record, and once again Australia is at the summit! The Australians have scored 500+ totals on 132 occasions. They have played 774 test matches and batted in 1411 innings. Australia’s highest total rose up against the West Indies in Kingston when they scored 758-8 dec. in 1955. The Aussies score a total in excess of 500 once every 11 innings, which is a record. This stat clearly explains their clout in test cricket.