Over the years, test cricket has been a constant for many of the more notable cricketing nations, but in recent years, additional nations like Ireland and Afghanistan have gained access to the longest version of the game. Bangladesh is one such squad that has been rising through the rankings. However, the subcontinental nation had to go through some difficult times before becoming a cricketing power. West Indies completely destroyed Bangladesh in just 112 balls or less than 20 overs. It was just the second-shortest Test innings in terms of balls, though. In light of that, we examine the five-Test cricket first innings with the fewest number of balls faced:
South Africa vs. India | 120 balls | 2008
A small bowling group humiliated the Indian squad during the second Test of South Africa’s tour to India. The Indian batters were knocked for 26 runs in just 120 balls, led by Dale Steyn, who claimed five wickets, with only MS Dhoni and Irfan Pathan reaching double digits. They made a comeback in the second inning but ultimately lost by an innings and 90 runs.
South Africa against New Zealand | 43 | 116 balls 2013
The first Test of New Zealand’s 2013 tour of South Africa ended in humiliation, with Vernon Philander taking five wickets this time. In 19.2 overs, the Kiwis were bowled out, with just Kane Williamson getting 13 runs. While chasing South Africa’s total in the second innings, they came extremely close to mounting a comeback but were dismissed 27 runs short of their objective. By an innings’ worth of runs and seven, South Africa prevailed.
England vs. Australia | 113 balls | 1896 | Australia
Australia was bowled out for 53 runs in 22.3 overs in the 1896 Ashes match at Lord’s (five-ball overs). For the hosts, George Lohmann got six wickets, while only Joe Darling, Syd Gregory, and Charles Eady reached double figures. While his bowling partner, Tom Richardson, captured three wickets and gave up the remaining 39 runs, he gave up 13 runs. Australia put up a valiant fight in the second innings, but it was in vain as England won by six wickets.
Bangladesh | 43 vs West Indies | 112 balls | 2018
During Bangladesh’s 2018 visit to the West Indies, they were bowled out for 43 runs in 18.4 overs. Leading the Windies bowling unit was Kemar Roach. Roach only allowed eight runs while taking five wickets in five overs. Despite only managing to score 25 runs, Bangladeshi batsman Liton Das split the remaining wickets with Miguel Cummins and Jason Holder. Despite adding 144 runs to their total in the second inning, they were unable to close the deficit and lost by an innings and 219 runs.
Australia | 60 vs England | 111 balls | 2015
Stuart Broad, who took eight wickets in 9.3 overs to eliminate Australia for 60 runs in 18.3 overs (111 balls), masterminded this thrashing. As the Australians faltered, only Michael Clarke and Mitchell Johnson reached double figures. Australia gave up at 253 runs while trying to catch up to England’s 391 total in an effort to salvage anything from the game, allowing England to win by an innings and 78 runs.