Scott Boland Sets New Benchmark With Record-Breaking Test Bowling Average In Jamaica

Scott Boland scripts history [Source: AP Photos]

Australia fast bowler Scott Boland has made headlines by scripting a historic achievement in Test cricket. He now holds the best bowling average of any cricketer since 1915, who has bowled at least 2000 balls in the longest format of the game. This incredible feat was reached during the third Test against the West Indies at Sabina Park.

Scott Boland’s Historic Bowling Average

In the third Test, Boland took impressive figures of 3 wickets for 34 runs (3-34). This performance helped him reach a Test bowling average of just 17.33, which is the best bowling average recorded in the last 110 years of Test cricket for bowlers with a minimum of 2000 balls bowled.

To put this into perspective, the only bowler who stands above Boland since 1900 is England’s legendary Sydney Barnes, who has an average of 16.43. The other bowlers with better averages bowled back in the 1800s, during the early days of Test cricket.

The Best Test Bowling Averages Since 1915

Here is a quick look at some of the best bowlers in terms of bowling average since 1915 (with at least 2000 balls bowled):

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During the match, Boland played a crucial role in Australia’s bowling attack. He dismissed the West Indies’ top scorer John Campbell, who managed only 36 runs before Boland’s delivery nipped back into his pads. Soon after, Boland also took the wicket of Shai Hope (23 runs), using his pace and precise seam bowling.

Later, he cleaned up the tail-ender Shamar Joseph by hitting the stumps, which helped Australia take an 82-run first innings lead after bowling the hosts out for just 143 runs.

Despite West Indies pushing back late on day two, Australia found themselves in a strong position. The visitors were 99 for 6 in their second innings, but still held a lead of 181 runs.

With Cameron Green unbeaten on 42 and captain Pat Cummins not out on 5, Australia aimed to extend their lead further on day three. Their strong bowling attack, including Boland, has put them in control of the Test series, especially after winning the first two matches in Barbados and Grenada.

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