Top 5 highest individual scores by New Zealand batsmen in test cricket

Only one New Zealand batsman has hit a triple hundred in test cricket.

New Zealand’s test cricket history dates back to 1930 when they played their first test match against England in Christchurch. Their journey in their initial days was tough as they had to wait until 1956 for their first test victory, which came against the West Indies in Auckland.

Conditions in New Zealand are generally seam and swing friendly, which pose immense challenges to even the most skilled batters. Despite that, Kiwis have still been able to produce some of the best test batsmen who have thrived in difficult batting conditions, not only in New Zealand but also around the world.

Over the years, New Zealand batsmen have played a key role in the team’s success, showcasing their grit to tackle fire with fire. On that note, let’s take a look at the top five batters with the highest individual scores for New Zealand in the longest format.

5. Bryan Young – 267* vs Sri Lanka, Dunedin, 1997

In the first test match of Sri Lanka’s tour of New Zealand in 1997, Bryan Young anchored the Kiwi innings by scoring an unbeaten 267* in the first innings of the test. Opening the batting, Young showed immense patience while facing 422 balls to guide New Zealand to a commanding total of 586/7.

This marathon knock by Young saw the Black Caps win the game on the fourth day by an innings and 36 runs. Bryan was named the Player of the Match for his double hundred.

4. Stephen Fleming – 274* vs Sri Lanka, Colombo, 2003

New Zealand’s captain at the time, Stephen Fleming batted his heart out for his unbeaten knock of 274* in 2003 in Colombo. In the extreme heat and humidity of Sri Lanka, the Kiwi skipper led from the front, tackling Sri Lanka’s spinners with ease.

Fleming’s double hundred proved to be vital as it helped New Zealand declare their first innings for a massive score of 515/7.

In response, Sri Lanka fought well with their first innings score of 483, giving New Zealand a marginal lead. The game ultimately ended in a draw. Fleming, who scored 69* in the second innings, was named Player of the Match.

3. Ross Taylor – 290 vs Australia, Perth, 2015

Ross Taylor delivered one of the finest knocks by a Kiwi batsman in test cricket against Australia in Perth. New Zealand were under pressure after Australia declared their first innings at a massive score of 559/9.

New Zealand in reply were 87/2 when Taylor joined Williamson. The duo combined for a 265-run stand as Taylor tormented the Aussie attack with his elegant stroke play.

The game ended in a draw, but Taylor’s effort saw him register the highest-ever score by a Kiwi batter on Australian soil. He was named Player of the Match for his brilliant 290 and 35* in the first and second innings respectively.

2. Martin Crowe – 299 vs Sri Lanka, Wellington, 1991

Martin Crowe came agonizingly close to a triple century when he scored a magnificent 299 against Sri Lanka at Wellington in 1991. His innings came when the Black Caps were under tremendous pressure after conceding a massive 373-run lead in their first innings.

Crowe’s excellent innings of 299 saw him add 467 runs with Andrew Jones for the third wicket. Crowe’s valiant effort helped New Zealand secure a draw as they finished their second innings with 671/4 on the fifth day at the close of play.

1. Brendon McCullum – 302 vs India, Wellington, 2014

Brendon McCullum became the first New Zealand batsman to score a triple century in test cricket when he scored 302 against India in Wellington in 2014.

McCullum’s innings came when New Zealand were on the back foot. New Zealand, after being bowled out for 192 in their first innings, were trailing by 246 runs in their second innings.

Batting for over 12 hours, McCullum combined with BJ Watling and Jimmy Neesham to help New Zealand post 680/8 before declaring their innings. McCullum’s effort saw New Zealand secure a draw in a test match that seemed to be heading towards an Indian victory. McCullum was named Player of the Match for his epic triple ton.

(All stats updated till 16th October, 2024)

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