Known as the ‘Home of Cricket,’ Lord’s in London is steeped in tradition but features a challenging pitch that worsens by the fourth innings. Successful run chases require skill and resilience. Celebrating South Africa’s 2025 WTC win, here are five of the highest successful chases at Lord’s.
5. England 218-3 vs New Zealand, 1965 (Target: 216)
England secured a commanding seven-wicket victory over New Zealand at Lord’s in June 1965. Chasing 216, opener Geoff Boycott scored a resilient 76, while Ted Dexter anchored the chase with an unbeaten 80 after England slipped to 70-2. Their partnership guided England to reach the target in 60.5 overs on the final day, sealing a 2-0 series lead.
4. England 279/5 vs New Zealand, 2022 (Target: 277)
Showcasing the aggressive ‘BazBall’ style, England chased down 277 runs against New Zealand at Lord’s in June 2022. Joe Root scored an unbeaten 115 off 170 balls with 12 boundaries, supported by captain Ben Stokes’ 54 runs featuring five fours and three sixes. England achieved a five-wicket win in 78.5 overs, maintaining control on a challenging pitch.
3. South Africa 282/5 vs Australia, 2025 (Target: 282)
In the iconic WTC 2025 final, South Africa chased 282 against a potent Australian bowling attack including Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon. Aiden Markram starred with a majestic 136 from 207 balls, defying tough conditions. His 147-run partnership with captain Temba Bavuma paved the way for South Africa’s five-wicket victory on Day 4, ending their decades-long ICC silverware drought.
2. England 282/3 vs New Zealand, 2004 (Target: 282)
1. West Indies 344/1 vs England, 1984 (Target: 342)
West Indies produced one of the greatest run chases at Lord’s in 1984, winning by nine wickets. Set 342 runs with limited time, opener Gordon Greenidge smashed an unbeaten 214 off 242 balls, while Larry Gomes supported with 92*. Their unbroken 287-run second-wicket partnership sealed victory in just 66.1 overs with nine wickets in hand.
