Top 5 highest test scores by Indian batsmen at the SCG, Sydney

Only two Indian batsmen have scored a double century in Sydney in test cricket.

The Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) stands as one of the most storied venues in cricket. With a seating capacity of over 45,000, the SCG hosts the New Year’s test every year in Australia.

The venue has also witnessed several heavyweight clashes in ODI cricket, including the semi-finals of the ICC Cricket World Cup 1992 and 2015.

Sydney is one of the most batting-friendly venues in Australia. Unlike the extra pace and bounce in Perth and Brisbane, the flat pitch here allows the batsmen to enjoy shot-playing.

Over the years many Indians have registered iconic knocks at this venue. In this article, we will take a look at the top five highest individual scores by Indian batters at the SCG.

Top five highest test scores by Indian batsmen at the SCG, Sydney:

5. Sunil Gavaskar – 172 runs, 1986

On India’s tour of Australia 1985-86, Sunil Gavaskar hit a brilliant century in the first innings of the New Year’s test in Sydney.

Batting first, Gavaskar’s gritty century pushed India to 600/4, strengthening their position in the game. Gavaskar’s 172-run knock came off 400 balls and included 19 boundaries. He was also India’s highest run-scorer in the game.

The match ended in a draw.

4. VVS Laxman – 178 runs, 2004

VVS Laxman starred for India in the fourth test of Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2003-04 with 178 runs in the first innings at the SCG. Batting on day 1, Laxman’s innings helped India post 705 runs in their first innings.

His knock of 178 runs off 298 balls included 30 boundaries. Laxman joined Sachin Tendulkar with India at 194/3 and stitched a 353-run partnership, putting India on the front foot. The test finished in a draw.

3. Cheteshwar Pujara- 193 runs, 2019

Cheteshwar Pujara starred for India in the Sydney test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2018-19 with 193 runs in the first innings. Pujara’s innings helped India post a huge total of 622 runs.

His knock of 193 runs off 373 balls included 22 boundaries. Despite Pujara’s heroic, India couldn’t win the test due to frequent rain delays on day 4 and 5. The draw, however, meant India seal the four-match series 2-1 and register their maiden test series win on Australian soil.

2. Ravi Shastri – 206 runs, 1992

Former Indian opener Ravi Shastri registered an impressive ton in the first innings of the 1992 Sydney test. After dismissing Australia for 313 in the first innings, Shastri’s 206-run knock pushed India to 483 runs in their first innings.

Shastri’s innings included 17 fours and two sixes. He added 196 runs with Sachin Tendulkar for the fifth wicket. The game ended in a draw and Shastri was named Player of the Match.

1. Sachin Tendulkar – 241* runs, 2004

Sachin Tendulkar holds the record for highest test score by an Indian batsman at the SCG, Sydney, for his 241-run knock in 2004.

Tendulkar’s double century came in the fourth test of the BGT 2003/04. Batting first, Sachin’s 241* propelled India to 705 runs.

His impactful knock, which came in 436 balls, consisted of 33 fours. The game ultimately ended in a thrilling draw and Tendulkar was named Player of the Match.

This innings is famously known for Sachin not playing a single cover drive in the innings.

(All stats are updated till 31st December 2024)

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