One step away: 3 teams with most instances of batsmen getting out on 99 in Tests
Scoring a hundred in Test matches is certainly a massive achievement for any batter. After all, it takes a lot to reach the three-figure mark in this format. A player needs to tackle the red cherry with precision throughout his innings alongside finding a way to score runs. However, a different aspect of a player is challenged when he’s near an illustrious landmark.
With registering a Test hundred being no ordinary feat, several batters tend to lose their concentration when the milestone is nearby. Owing to the same, we see several getting out in the ‘nervous nineties.’ There even have been many batters who have gotten out on 99 in this format. This shows what the pressure of scoring a ton can do to players.
Meanwhile, here we look at three teams with the most instances of batsmen getting out on 99 in Tests:
Pakistan – 12
Although Pakistan are known to produce world-class bowlers, several prominent batters have also represented their nation. Players like Zaheer Abbas, Inzamam-ul-Haq, and Saeed Anwar have tormented many potent bowling attacks during their illustrious careers. While all these talismans scored many Test hundreds in Pakistan colours, some scores of 99 were also registered. Overall, on 12 occasions, a Pakistan batsman has been dismissed for 99 in Test matches, third-most for any nation.
England – 15
England’s cricket history is rich with the gentleman’s game known to have originated from the UK. The Three Lions are known to take a lot of pride in playing the purest format. Hence, the annual calendar of the national teams is generally flooded with Test matches. Owing to the same, England has produced several legendary batters like Wally Hammond, Kevin Pietersen and Andrew Strauss.
These players scored many hundreds in the national colours. However, at times, England batters fell short of the landmark by just one run. Overall, there have been 15 instances of England batters getting out on 99 in Tests.
Australia – 24
It might surprise many but Australia lead this list. After all, Aussie players are known for their mental toughness and ability to shine under pressure. In Don Bradman, Ricky Ponting, Steve Waugh, and Steve Smith, Australia have enjoyed the services of some world-class batters. While many Aussie stars slammed tons for fun, many players could go as far as 99. Overall, there have been 24 instances of Aussie players getting out on 99 in Test matches.