Test cricket, known for its unpredictable twists and turns, has witnessed some of the most extraordinary comebacks in Test Cricket history. These games highlight the resilience, determination, and sheer willpower of teams that refused to give up, even when the odds were stacked against them. Here, we delve into the greatest comebacks in Test cricket, showcasing the spirit of the game that keeps fans on the edge of their seats.
Here are the Top 5 Greatest Comebacks in Test Cricket:
5. India vs Australia, Kolkata (2001)
The 2001 Kolkata Test between India and Australia is legendary, often cited as one of the greatest comebacks in Test cricket. Australia, boasting a 16-match winning streak, enforced the follow-on after dismissing India for 171 in response to their 445. Facing defeat, VVS Laxman and Rahul Dravid turned the tide with scores of 281 and 180, respectively, leading India to 657/7 declared. Harbhajan Singh, who took a hat-trick in the first innings, claimed six more wickets to bowl Australia out for 212, securing a 171-run victory and ending Australia’s streak. This match marked a significant turning point in Indian cricket.
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4. West Indies vs Australia, Antigua (2003)
In 2003, the West Indies staged one of the most remarkable comebacks in Test cricket by chasing down 418 runs against Australia, setting a record for the highest successful run chase. Despite being 0-3 down in the series, the Windies’ batsmen, led by Ramnaresh Sarwan and Shivnarine Chanderpaul, mounted a strong recovery. Lower-order contributions from Omari Banks and Vasbert Drakes secured a famous victory, showcasing the team’s resilience and belief. This match is celebrated not just for the record chase but for the incredible character displayed by the West Indian team.
3. South Africa vs Sri Lanka, Durban (2019)
In 2019, Sri Lanka achieved a stunning one-wicket victory over South Africa in Durban, largely due to Kusal Perera’s heroic 153*. Chasing 304, Sri Lanka was in deep trouble at 226/9. Perera, in one of the greatest comebacks in Test cricket history, forged a miraculous 78-run partnership with No. 11 Vishwa Fernando, showcasing controlled aggression and calculated risks. This partnership secured an unlikely victory and stands as a testament to the unpredictable nature of Test cricket.
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2. Australia vs India, Brisbane (2021)
The final Test of the 2020-21 Border-Gavaskar Trophy saw India achieve a historic win at the Gabba, Brisbane, where Australia had remained unbeaten for 32 years. Despite numerous injuries and a team full of debutants, India was given little chance against a full-strength Australian side. Chasing 328 on a deteriorating pitch, India’s Shubman Gill (91), Cheteshwar Pujara (56), and Rishabh Pant (89*) led the team to a thrilling three-wicket victory. This win secured the series 2-1 and is celebrated as one of the greatest comebacks in Test cricket history.
1. New Zealand vs England, Wellington (2023)
In February 2023, New Zealand achieved a thrilling one-run victory over England in Wellington, becoming only the fourth team in Test history to win after following on. England declared at 435/8, but New Zealand, bowled out for 209, fought back with Kane Williamson’s century leading them to 483. Chasing 258, England seemed poised at 201/5, but a late collapse saw them fall just one run short. This match is celebrated as one of the great comebacks in Test cricket for its nail-biting finish and New Zealand’s remarkable resilience.
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