Which Matches Featured the Highest Team Totals in Women’s Test Cricket?

Women’s Test cricket has seen some extraordinary performances over the years, with teams delivering impressive batting displays that have set new records. Among these, certain matches have stood out for their exceptional team totals, highlighting the evolution and growing competitiveness of the game. From India Women’s recent record-breaking innings to Australia Women’s dominant performances in the 1980s and 1990s, these high-scoring encounters not only showcase the skill and determination of the players but also mark significant milestones in the history of Women’s Test cricket.

India Women: 603

On June 29, 2024, India Women made history by setting the highest-ever total in Women’s Test cricket during their match against South Africa Women in Chennai. They achieved an impressive 603 for the loss of six wickets before declaring their innings. The foundation of this monumental total was laid by a stellar opening partnership between Smriti Mandhana (149) and Shafali Verma (205), who together amassed a formidable 292 runs for the first wicket. Additional significant contributions came from Jemimah Rodrigues (55), Harmanpreet Kaur (69), and Richa Ghosh (86), each playing a crucial role in building the massive total.

Australia Women: 575

Earlier in 2024, Australia Women turned heads with a jaw-dropping total of 575/9 declared against South Africa Women in Perth. Following South Africa’s modest first-innings total of 76, Australia took full advantage of a flat pitch. Annabel Sutherland was the standout performer, scoring an exceptional 210 runs, while Alyssa Healy (99), Ashleigh Gardner (65), and Kim Garth (49) provided valuable support. Australia declared their innings with a commanding lead and secured a resounding victory by an innings and 284 runs after dismissing South Africa for 215 in their second innings.

Australia Women: 569

In 1998, Australia Women and England Women faced off in a high-scoring Test at Guildford, where Australia Women posted an imposing total of 569/6 declared. England Women had earlier set a challenging target of 414. Australia responded with determination, led by Joanne Broadbent, who scored a double century (200) and was supported by Mel Jones, who contributed 131. Their crucial partnership of 220 runs for the fourth wicket was pivotal to Australia’s innings.

Australia Women: 525

In 1984, Australia Women achieved a landmark feat in Women’s Test cricket during a match against India Women in Ahmedabad. They became the first team to exceed the 500-run mark, posting a formidable total of 525 runs. This historic innings was marked by outstanding performances from Peta Verco, who scored 105, Jill Kennare with 131, and Karen Price, who remained unbeaten on 104*.

New Zealand Women: 517

In 1996, New Zealand Women unleashed a cricketing masterpiece with their highest-ever Test total of 517/8d against England Women in Scarborough. England Women had previously posted a considerable 414. The White Ferns utilized the flat pitch to their advantage, with Kirsty Bond leading the charge with a superb double century (204). She was supported by Shelley Fruin (80) and Kelly Brown (50). This innings remains a testament to New Zealand Women’s batting strength and their ability to perform on the international stage.