Highest Test score in successful run-chases at Number 9

Chasing a target in the fourth innings of a Test is one of the toughest tasks ever. Batting on the fifth-day pitch that has deteriorated with the play on the first four days of the game is nothing less than a nightmare. Hence, in order to chase down targets in the fourth innings, the batting side requires contributions from the entire batting order including the tailenders.

There have been several occasions in Test history where the tail has rescued the team from a precarious situation and helped them cross the line on numerous occasions. On that note, let’s take a look at the highest Test score by a number nine batter in successful run chases:

3) 38* Sydney Barnes v AUS (1908)

Chasing a target of 282 in the fourth innings, England were reeling at 198/7 with Sydney Barnes and Jack Crawford at the crease. Barnes held one end and continued to chip away with the runs and got good support from Joe Humphries (16) and Arthur Fielder (18*). Barnes scored a crucial 38* as England won the match by one wicket.

2) 42* Ravichandran Ashwin v BAN (2022)

Chasing a modest target of 145 in the fourth innings, India were in a spot of bother at 74/7 with Shreyas Iyer and Ravichandran Ashwin at the crease. The duo put on a match-saving 71-run stand for the eighth wicket and guided India to a three-wicket win. Ashwin remained unbeaten on 42* as India won the series 2-0.

1) 44* Pat Cummins v ENG (2023)

Australia were in all sorts of trouble at 227/8 in the first Test of Ashes 2023, chasing a target of 281. Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon came to their team’s rescue as the duo put on a miraculous 55-run stand to help their side get over the line. Cummins remained unbeaten on 44* while Lyon scored 16* to help Australia go 1-0 in the five-match series.