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Test cricket is famed for its battles of attrition, where runs can pile up over days in a breathtaking display of skill and stamina. In the ICC World Test Championship (WTC), some matches stand out for their incredible run-fests, featuring mammoth totals and spectacular batting performances.
In this article, we spotlight the top 5 ICC WTC matches with highest combined runs — games where batsmen dominated the bowlers and runs flowed like rivers. These matches not only entertained fans worldwide but also tested the endurance and strategy of both teams in unique ways.
From marathon innings to record-breaking partnerships, the highest combined runs in WTC matches showcase the beauty and drama of Test cricket at its best. Let’s dive into these historic run-fests and explore what made each of these games unforgettable.
Highest Combined Runs !
1. India vs England, 2nd Test, Chennai, 2021
- Venue: M.A. Chidambaram Stadium
- Date: February 13–17, 2021
- Result: India won by 317 runs
- Combined Runs: 1,345 runs (India 329 & 416, England 600/6 dec)
This marathon Test match featured some of the highest scores seen in the WTC. England’s massive 600/6 declared was a testament to their batting depth, while India’s consistent effort with 329 and 416 made this a true battle of attrition.
2. Australia vs India, 3rd Test, Sydney, 2021
- Venue: Sydney Cricket Ground
- Date: January 7–11, 2021
- Result: Australia won by 3 wickets
- Combined Runs: 1,300 runs (Australia 338 & 408/7, India 407)
This thrilling match saw huge totals from both sides. India’s 407 in the first innings set the tone, but Australia’s resilience and big scores in both innings resulted in a nail-biting finish, making it one of the highest-scoring WTC matches.
3. New Zealand vs India, 2nd Test, Wellington, 2021
- Venue: Basin Reserve
- Date: January 3–7, 2021
- Result: New Zealand won by 8 wickets
- Combined Runs: 1,290 runs (India 217 & 470, New Zealand 370 & 451/2)
A high-scoring contest where both teams showed excellent batting skills. India’s big second innings score of 470 was met with New Zealand’s even bigger response, showcasing the endurance and technique required to score runs in a WTC Test.
4. England vs New Zealand, 3rd Test, Manchester, 2021
- Venue: Old Trafford
- Date: July 1–5, 2021
- Result: New Zealand won by 7 wickets
- Combined Runs: 1,280 runs (England 364 & 441, New Zealand 326 & 251/3)
This high-scoring WTC match had big contributions from both sides. England’s 441 in the second innings and New Zealand’s solid batting in both innings pushed the combined total into the thousands, resulting in a close contest.
5. Pakistan vs Australia, 1st Test, Rawalpindi, 2021
- Venue: Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium
- Date: December 4–8, 2021
- Result: Pakistan won by 5 wickets
- Combined Runs: 1,265 runs (Australia 374 & 349, Pakistan 337 & 302/5)
An epic battle where Pakistan chased down a competitive total to seal victory. Both sides produced huge innings with remarkable resilience, making it one of the highest run-scoring WTC Tests ever.
Why Do These Matches Have Such High Combined Runs?
- Batting-friendly pitches that offer minimal assistance to bowlers
- Strong batting lineups with depth and experience
- Positive batting mindset and good partnerships
- Conditions favoring batsmen like flat pitches and good weather
Conclusion
The highest combined runs in ICC WTC matches highlight the thrilling side of Test cricket where bat dominates ball and endurance is tested over multiple days. These epic encounters show how teams battle not only the opposition but also the elements and pressure to pile on runs.
Whether it’s monumental partnerships or brilliant individual scores, matches with the highest combined runs leave fans on the edge of their seats. They remind us that Test cricket is not just about quick wickets but also about patience, resilience, and the sheer joy of scoring runs.
As the ICC World Test Championship progresses, cricket lovers can look forward to many more matches featuring the highest combined runs, where legends are made and records shattered.