In the labyrinth of cricket’s timeless history, an ethereal chapter unfolded as India and South Africa engaged in a dance of brevity. Playing out the shortest-ever Test match in the intricate tapestry of 147 years. A mystifying convergence of bat and ball etched its enigmatic mark, leaving spectators in awe as the familiar rhythms of the sport were rewritten in fleeting moments on the hallowed field. As the shortest ever Test Match whispered its story, the echoes resonated through the corridors of cricket’s past, present and the enigmatic journey that lies ahead.
Guinness book of world record for shortest ever test match
In a Test match marked by a myriad of record-breaking moments, a colossal milestone emerged as the 2nd Test between India and South Africa in Cape Town. Concluded in an astonishing 107 overs (642 balls), establishing itself as the shortest ever in history. India claimed victory in the New-lands Test by seven wickets, levelling the series at 1-1. While eclipsing their previous record of 842 balls against England in 2021. South Africa witnessed the rare occurrence of batting twice in a single day. Leading to a tumultuous fall of 23 wickets. An additional 10 tumbled on Day 2 before India, embarking on their 9th South African tour. Elegantly chased down 79, securing their inaugural Test win at the venue.
In a bid to secure only their second ever Test series draw in South Africa. India’s pacers Mohammed Siraj and Jasprit Bumrah delivered remarkable bowling performances within a mere two days. Both pacers notched up six-wicket-hauls as a total of 23 wickets tumbled on the initial day. Followed by an additional 10 on the second. In a triumphant turn of events, India clinched a 7-wicket victory. Marking their first at New-lands, Cape Town and setting the tone for a promising start to the new year in 2024. Despite Aiden Markram’s brilliant century, India managed to overcome a challenging period of 0/6 in the first innings.
Some other shortest test matches
The second shortest ever Test match unfolded at the MCG between Australia and South Africa, lasting a mere 656 balls. During this encounter, South Africa registered their lowest-ever Test total of 36 all out in 23.2 overs. Opting to bat first, South Africa faced an outstanding performance by Bert Ironmonger, who secured figures of 5/6. Australia responded with a score of 153 in 54.3 overs, before South Africa faltered again. Getting bundled out for 45 in 31.3 overs. This frail batting display resulted in a combined total of 81 across both innings, leading to Australia’s dominant win by an innings and 72 runs.
In January 1935, Bridgetown hosted one of the most peculiar and briefest Test matches ever played, reduced to a mere 112 overs (672 balls) due to persistent rain. West Indies, batting first, crumbled for 102 in 47 overs, with Ken Farms claiming 4/40. England declared curiously at 81/7 in response, influenced by the rapidly deteriorating pitch. The Windies struggled in their second innings, declaring at 51/6 in 19 overs, setting England a modest target. England successfully chased the target of 75 for the loss of six wickets, securing a bizarre victory in a weather-impacted match.
In the 1888 Ashes series, another brief encounter occurred at Old Trafford, lasting just 196 overs (1176 balls). Under the unique rule of 4 balls per over in England Tests at the time. England posted 172 with Charlie Turner taking 5/86. Australia managed only a combined total of 151 across their two innings (81 and 70). Bobby Peel played a pivotal role, grabbing 7/31 in the first innings. And 4/37 in the second, ensuring England’s decisive victory by an innings and 21 runs.
In the same series, Lord’s witnessed the shortest ever Test match ever played on its revered turf. Lasting only 197 overs (1182 balls). Australia posted 116 in the first innings (71.2 overs) as Peel and Johnny Briggs wreaked havoc. And England could only muster 53 in 50 overs. Turner once again stood out for Australia with figures of 5/27. But their batsmen faltered in the second innings, getting dismissed for 60 in 29.2 overs. Despite a target of 122, England stumbled, being bowled out for 62 in 47 overs, with Turner and JJ Ferris scalping five wickets each.
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