Double Centuries by Wicketkeepers in Test Cricket: A Comprehensive Overview

Double centuries in Test cricket, particularly by wicketkeepers, are rare feats. Only nine wicketkeepers have achieved this remarkable milestone, marking significant contributions to their teams. This article delves into the achievements of these exceptional players and the records they have set.

A Historical Overview of Double Centuries by Wicketkeepers

Date back to 1955, when the first wicketkeeper to score a double century was Pakistani player Imtiaz Ahmed. He scored 209 against New Zealand at Lahore. Since then, the record has been pushed further by several talented keepers. Here is a detailed look at the current list of wicketkeepers who have achieved double centuries in Test cricket:

Wicketkeepers with Double Centuries

As of August 2023, the wicketkeepers with double centuries in Test cricket are:

Brian Close (England) - 2 double centuries Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka) - 2 double centuries Adam Gilchrist (Australia) - 2 double centuries MS Dhoni (India) - 1 double century Mark Boucher (South Africa) - 1 double century Rishabh Pant (India) - 1 double century Ijaz Ahmed (Pakistan) - 1 double century Mushfiqur Rahim (Bangladesh) - 2 double centuries

Kumar Sangakkara holds the record with the most double centuries by a wicketkeeper, an astounding feat with two double centuries to his name.

Recent Additions

The most recent addition to this list is Mushfiqur Rahim from Bangladesh. He scored his second double century against Sri Lanka in 2013 at Galle with 200 runs and later in 2018, he achieved another milestone against Zimbabwe with 219 runs in Dhaka.

Notable Records

Several wicketkeepers have marked their names in the history books with notable records:

1. Imtiaz Ahmed (Pakistan)

Imtiaz Ahmed shattered the record with his 209 against New Zealand in 1955 at Lahore. Playing at number 8, he rescued his team from 111/6 and formed a 308 run partnership for the 7th wicket with Waqar Hasan.

2. Taslim Arif (Pakistan)

Taslim Arif played as an opener for Pakistan and achieved his best score of 210 against Australia in 1980 at Faisalabad. This record is remarkable because he faced all 11 members of the opposing team in the bowling attack.

3. Brendan Kuruppu (Sri Lanka)

Brendan Kuruppu set a unique record for Sri Lanka by scoring 201 against New Zealand in 1987 at Colombo. He became the third wicketkeeper to achieve a double century, and notably, it was on his debut. Although his slowest double century in Test cricket, it remains a significant milestone for Sri Lankan cricket.

4. Andy Flower (Zimbabwe)

Andy Flower of Zimbabwe achieved his best score in 2000 in Nagpur by scoring 232 in a follow-on. Interestingly, he scored a century in the first innings and then continued his innings, ending on 199 in Harare in 2001. This demonstrates his resilience and skill in Test cricket.

5. Adam Gilchrist (Australia)

Adam Gilchrist scored 204 in Johannesburg against South Africa in 2002, recording a 300 partnership with Damien Martyn for the 6th wicket.

6. Kumar Sangakkara (Sri Lanka)

Kumara Sangakkara achieved his 230 against Pakistan in 2002 at Lahore. This score was significant and added to his already impressive record.

7. MS Dhoni (India)

MS Dhoni, the only Indian wicketkeeper to set a double century, achieved it against Australia in 2013 in Chennai. He also holds the distinction of being the only captain on this list to achieve this feat.

8. BJ Watling (New Zealand)

BJ Watling made a notable entry onto this list in 2019, achieving 205 against England at the Bay Oval. This achievement showcases his growing prominence in Test cricket.

Conclusion

The list of wicketkeepers who have scored double centuries in Test cricket is a testament to their exceptional batting skills and leadership qualities. These players have not only scored runs but have also contributed significantly to their teams' success. For the latest updates or changes beyond August 2023, it is advisable to refer to the latest cricket statistics from reliable sources.