Highest individual scores in Test cricket showcase incredible batting feats. These legendary innings highlight players who scored massive runs in a single innings, setting records that stand the test of time. These performances demonstrate exceptional skill, endurance, and concentration, inspiring cricket fans worldwide and cementing these batsmen’s places in the history of the sport.
Wiaan Mulder – 367* vs Zimbabwe, Bulawayo, 2025
In a remarkable start to his tenure as a test captain, South African all-rounder Wiaan Mulder made history during South Africa’s 2025 tour of Zimbabwe. Leading the side for the first time in test cricket, Mulder not only captained but delivered one of the finest batting performances ever seen. He crafted an unbeaten 367 runs off just 297 balls, making it the second-fastest triple century in test history. This innings surpassed the previous highest test score by a South African—Hashim Amla’s 311—and established Mulder as the first player ever to score a triple century on his test captaincy debut. His dominant and aggressive style under pressure redefined leadership through performance and set a new benchmark for future captains.
Test Cricket: Mahela Jayawardene – 374 vs South Africa, Colombo, 2006
Sri Lanka’s test cricket history boasts a monumental innings by former captain Mahela Jayawardene. Against South Africa in Colombo in 2006, Jayawardene amassed 374 runs from 572 deliveries. His innings was studded with 43 boundaries and a six, forming a pivotal part of the highest-ever third-wicket partnership in test cricket alongside Kumar Sangakkara, who contributed 287 runs. Together, they added a staggering 624 runs, a partnership record that still stands today. Sri Lanka declared their innings at 756/5 and went on to bowl South Africa out twice—169 and 434—clinching victory by an innings and 153 runs. Jayawardene’s composure and skill during this innings reflect his reputation as one of Sri Lanka’s finest batsmen.
Test Cricket: Brian Lara – 375 vs England, St. John’s, 1994
One of cricket’s most iconic figures, Brian Lara, made headlines with his massive 375 runs against England during the fifth and final test of the 1994 series at St. John’s. Coming in early at 12/2, Lara displayed sheer dominance and finesse, scoring 375 runs from 538 balls, including 45 fours. His monumental effort helped West Indies declare at 593/5. England responded with an identical 593 in their first innings. The match ultimately ended in a draw, with West Indies holding steady at 43/0 in their second innings. This innings was Lara’s first major step toward his eventual record-breaking feats and showcased his ability to take control under pressure.
Test Cricket: Matthew Hayden – 380 vs Zimbabwe, Perth, 2003
Australia’s Matthew Hayden shattered records with his 380-run innings against Zimbabwe in Perth in 2003. This score remains the highest individual test innings by an Australian. Hayden’s aggressive batting included 11 sixes and 38 fours, compiled off 437 balls. His innings powered Australia to a mammoth 735/6 declared. Zimbabwe could only muster 239 and 321 in their two innings, leading to a dominant Australian victory by an innings and 175 runs. Hayden’s innings was a perfect blend of power-hitting and resilience, proving pivotal in asserting Australia’s dominance in world cricket during that era.
Brian Lara – 400* vs England, St. John’s, 2004
The crowning jewel of test batting milestones belongs to Brian Lara, who became the first batsman in history to score a quadruple century in test cricket. Just six months after Matthew Hayden broke his previous record, Lara reclaimed the title by scoring an unbeaten 400 runs against England at St. John’s in 2004. This epic innings lasted 582 balls and included 43 fours and four sixes. The match ended in a draw, but Lara’s feat remains a landmark achievement in the sport, symbolizing endurance, concentration, and skill at the highest level. This record-setting innings cemented Lara’s legacy as one of cricket’s all-time greats.
