Most 290+ Scores by a Batsman in Test Cricket

In Test cricket, where patience meets power, scoring 290 or more in a single innings is a rare feat that demands exceptional skill and stamina. These massive scores often turn matches and cement legacies, from triple centuries to heartbreaking near-misses at 299.

Legends like Don Bradman and Virender Sehwag lead the pack with three such knocks each, blending endurance with aggression.

Whether you’re exploring Test batting records, highest individual scores, or cricket milestones like triple hundreds and 290+ innings, this article breaks down the top performers with match details, stats, and insights into their epic contributions to the game.

Who Holds the Record for the Most 290+ Scores in Test Cricket?

Don Bradman of Australia and Virender Sehwag of India jointly hold the record for the most 290+ scores in Test cricket, with three each. Bradman’s era-defining innings showcased classical dominance, while Sehwag’s explosive style redefined modern batting.

Bradman’s three came in the 1930s against strong opponents, including two triples and a stranded 299*. Sehwag’s arrived in the 2000s, featuring rapid triples and a 293, often at strike rates that stunned bowlers.

What Are the Top Batters with the Most 290+ Scores in Test Cricket?

The batters with the most 290+ scores in Test cricket are ranked by count, highlighting those who repeatedly breached this elite barrier. Below is a chronological breakdown of their innings, including dates, scores, opponents, venues, and standout moments. These knocks often involved marathon sessions, key partnerships, and match-winning impacts, underscoring Test cricket’s batting milestones.

1#. Don Bradman (Australia) – 3 Scores, Highest 334

Bradman, the greatest batter in history with a 99.94 average, achieved his 290+ feats in the 1930s, blending technique and focus.

334 vs England, Headingley, Leeds, July 1930:

In the third Ashes Test, Bradman smashed 334 (46 fours) in Australia’s 566, drawing the match. It equaled the then-highest Test score and set the tone for his dominance.

299 vs South Africa, Adelaide Oval, January 1932*:

Left unbeaten on 299 (no balls data) after No.11 was run out, Bradman’s knock powered Australia to 513 and an innings win. It’s the only 299* in Tests and a poignant near-miss to 300.

304 vs England, Headingley, Leeds, July 1934:

Bradman’s 304 (43 fours) in the fourth Ashes Test helped Australia to 584, leading to a draw. His partnerships, including 388 with Bill Ponsford, remain legendary.

#2. Virender Sehwag (India) – 3 Scores, Highest 319

Known for his fearless opening, Sehwag’s 290+ innings revolutionized Test batting with high strike rates and boundary barrages.He also hold the record of fastest test triple centuries in test.

309 vs Pakistan, Multan Cricket Stadium, March 2004:

In the first Test, Sehwag’s 309 (375 balls, 39 fours, 6 sixes) propelled India to 675/5 declared, securing an innings victory. Dubbed the “Multan Sultan,” it was India’s first Test win in Pakistan.

319 vs South Africa, M.A. Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai, March 2008: Sehwag raced to 319 (304 balls, 42 fours, 5 sixes) at a strike rate over 100 the fastest triple by balls faced. India declared at 627, drawing the match against a potent attack including Dale Steyn.

293 vs Sri Lanka, Brabourne Stadium, Mumbai, December 2009:

Falling short of 300, Sehwag’s 293 (254 balls, 40 fours, 7 sixes) helped India to 726/9 declared and an innings win. It showcased his near run-a-ball aggression in subcontinental conditions.

#3. Brian Lara (West Indies) – 2 Scores, Highest 400*

Lara, the prince of Trinidad, holds the record for the highest Test score and most 350+ innings, with elegant strokeplay against England both times.

375 vs England, Antigua Recreation Ground, St John’s, April 1994:

In the fifth Test, Lara’s 375 (538 balls, 45 fours) broke Garry Sobers’ record, leading West Indies to 593/5 declared and a draw. It was his maiden triple, aged just 24.

400 vs England, Antigua Recreation Ground, St John’s, April 2004*:

Reclaiming his world record, Lara’s unbeaten 400 (582 balls, 43 fours, 4 sixes) powered West Indies to 751/5 declared in the fourth Test, ending in a draw. It’s the only 400 in Tests and a redemption story after losing the series.

#4. Chris Gayle (West Indies) – 2 Scores, Highest 333

The “Universe Boss” brought power-hitting to Tests, with his triples featuring massive sixes and laid-back dominance.

317 vs South Africa, Antigua Recreation Ground, St John’s, April 2005:

In the fourth Test, Gayle’s 317 (483 balls, 37 fours, 3 sixes) helped West Indies to 747, drawing the match. It capped a series where he averaged over 100.

333 vs Sri Lanka, Galle International Stadium, November 2010:

Gayle’s 333 (437 balls, 34 fours, 9 sixes) in the first Test led to 580/9 declared and a draw. It equaled Bradman’s Leeds feats and highlighted his endurance.

These innings often occurred on flat pitches but against quality bowling, turning potential draws into spectacles. Bradman and Sehwag’s inclusion of 290-299 knocks adds a layer of drama to Test cricket’s near-300 club.