West Indies’ record-breaking draw in NZ (Source: AFP Photos)
Batting in the fourth innings of a Test is the ultimate test of skill and nerve. Some teams have defied the odds, rewriting history with astonishing totals under immense pressure.
Be it chasing a target to win or battling to save a draw, the fourth innings of a Test match is where gritty players stand tall. Battling pitches' wear and tear, tension, and relentless bowling, a few teams have produced record-breaking totals that stunned opponents and thrilled cricket fans worldwide.
4. Pakistan 450 all-out chasing 490 vs Australia, Gabba 2016
Pakistan’s 450 in the 2016 Gabba pink-ball Test is the joint fourth-highest fourth-innings total ever. Chasing 490 after a poor first innings, Pakistan mounted a remarkable fightback, led by Asad Shafiq’s superb 137-run knock and valuable contributions across the batting order. Though they eventually fell short on Day 5, the spirited chase stands as one of the most memorable 4th innings efforts.
4. South Africa 450/7 chasing 458 vs India, Johannesburg 2013
South Africa’s 450/7 against India in the famous Johannesburg Test in 2013, stands amongst one of the highest fourth-innings total in Test cricket. Chasing 458 on a tricky Wanderers’ pitch, they came remarkably close to a record chase, powered by centuries from AB de Villiers and Faf du Plessis, who added 205 together. Just eight runs short, their charge was halted as time ran out, ending the match in a tense draw.
3. New Zealand 451 all-out chasing 550 vs England, Christchurch 2002
New Zealand’s 451 against England in Christchurch 2002 finds the third place in this list of highest fourth-innings total in Tests. In pursuit of 550 against England, the Kiwis were kept alive by Nathan Astle’s extraordinary 222 off 168 balls, one of the most explosive Test knocks ever played. His unbelievable assault dragged England to the brink, but the chase eventually ended 98 runs short, sealing the innings as a legendary near-miracle.
2. West Indies 457/6 chasing 531 vs New Zealand, Christchurch 2025
West Indies’ stunning 2025 effort in Christchurch is the latest addition to this list. Chasing 531 at Hagley Oval, they slipped to 72 for 4 with New Zealand seemingly cruising. But Shai Hope’s gritty century and Justin Greaves’ magnificent double ton turned the contest around, aided by vital late resistance from Kemar Roach. The remarkable fightback carried West Indies to a memorable and hard-earned draw, placing their effort to the second highest fourth-innings total in Test cricket.
1. England 654/5 chasing 696 vs South Africa, Durban 1939
The highest-ever fourth-innings total in Test history remains 654 for 5 by England against South Africa in the historic “Timeless Test” of 1939. The match, played over 10 days, ended prematurely as the English team had to catch their ship home from Durban, despite being close to victory. Even after 86 years, this record stands tall, unlikely to be surpassed in modern-day Test cricket.
