Against which countries did Brian Lara score the most Test runs? Positions 1 and 2 are predictable, but 5 is a surprise
Brian Charles Lara, the West Indian legend, was undoubtedly one of the all-time greats.
Up there with the likes of Donald Bradman and Sachin Tendulkar, what made Lara so special was the fact that his star shone even though he spent a large part of his career playing for a West Indies side that was not particularly strong.
Lara, who turns 56 on Friday, played a total of 131 Tests and averaged 52.88. He scored at least one Test century against each of the teams he played against, giving him a full house of Test centuries against all the Test-playing nations of his day (Afghanistan, Scotland, and Ireland were not playing Test cricket when Lara was active).
Now, as we mark the occasion of Lara’s birthday, let’s take a moment to look at which sides he scored the most runs against.
9. Bangladesh – 173 runs from 2 Tests (highest score: 120)
Lara’s encounters with Bangladesh were limited, as the team only gained Test status in 2000. In the two Tests he played against them, Lara amassed 173 runs, including a commanding 120.
Despite the small sample size, his century ensured he was able to complete the full house of tons against all Test playing countries.
8. Zimbabwe – 222 runs from 2 Tests (highest score: 191)
Facing Zimbabwe in two Tests, Lara scored 222 runs, with a highest score of 191. His near-double century highlighted his penchant for big scores, even against less formidable opponents.
These innings were typical of a master-batsman who was always hungry for runs and who could capitalize on any opportunity to pile them on.
7. New Zealand – 704 runs from 11 Tests (highest score: 147)
Against New Zealand, Lara accumulated 704 runs over 11 Tests, with a top score of 147.
While not his most prolific opponent, Lara’s performances against the Kiwis were marked by consistency and resilience, often anchoring the West Indies’ batting lineup in challenging conditions. While not bad by usual standards, Lara’s average against the Black Caps was just 41.41.
Also read: 9 longest careers in international cricket across Tests, ODIs and T20Is combined
6. India – 1,002 runs from 17 Tests (highest score: 120)
In 17 Tests against India, Lara scored 1,002 runs, including a highest score of 120. His battles against India’s spin-heavy attacks on subcontinental pitches tested his technique and temperament.
Lara’s ability to adapt and succeed in these conditions underscored his versatility as a world-class batsman. Lara’s average against India was a disappointing 34.55.
5. Sri Lanka – 1,125 runs from 8 Tests (highest score: 221)
Lara’s record against Sri Lanka is impressive, with 1,125 runs in just eight Tests, averaging over 80.
His highest score of 221 came during a period when Sri Lanka boasted a formidable bowling attack, including the legendary Muttiah Muralitharan. Lara’s dominance in these matches highlighted his exceptional skill against spin bowling.
4. Pakistan – 1,173 runs from 12 Tests (highest score: 216)
Facing Pakistan’s potent bowling lineup, Lara amassed 1,173 runs in 12 Tests, with a top score of 216. His ability to counter the likes of Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis demonstrated his prowess against high-quality pace attacks.
Lara’s performances were often the backbone of the West Indies’ batting efforts against Pakistan.
3. South Africa – 1,715 runs from 18 Tests (highest score: 202)
Against South Africa, Lara scored 1,715 runs in 18 Tests, including a highest score of 202 which he made against an attack that included Shaun Pollock, Makhaya Ntini, Andre Nel and Jacques Kallis.
His encounters with the Proteas were marked by fierce competition, and Lara’s contributions were crucial in challenging their dominant bowling units. His double century stands as a testament to his ability to perform under pressure.
2. Australia – 2,856 runs from 31 Tests (highest score: 277)
Lara’s battles with Australia were legendary. In 31 Tests, he scored 2,856 runs, with a highest score of 277. His innings of 277 in Sydney in 1993 was a masterclass in stroke play and endurance, setting the tone for many memorable duels with the Aussies.
Lara’s flair and determination often brought out the best in him against an Australian side that was undoubtedly the strongest lineup of his era. Lara ended with a career average of 51 against the Baggy Greens.
1. England – 2,983 runs from 30 Tests (highest score: 400 not out)
Lara’s most prolific opponent was England, against whom he scored 2,983 runs in 30 Tests. His highest score of 400 not out, achieved in Antigua in 2004, remains the highest individual score in Test cricket history.
This monumental innings not only showcased his technical brilliance but also his mental fortitude, as he reclaimed the record for the highest Test score, having previously set it with 375 against the same opposition a decade earlier.
Lara’s dominance over England was a defining aspect of his illustrious career. Lara averaged a crushing 62.14 per innings against England.