Highest team scores on the opening day of a Test

Test cricket has evolved in many ways but one over the years, from patiently building up innings, the players have started to solidify a more aggressive approach with both the bat and the ball in the longest format. Furthermore, with the advent of Bazball cricket, the sides have really taken to rapid starts to the game. Continuing on the same, let us have a look at the top three teams with the highest score on the opening day of a Test match.

3) 482 – AUS vs SA at Adelaide in 2012

The third-highest team score on an opening day of a Test match was made by Australia in the second Test against South Africa in Adelaide in 2012. As Australia came in to bat on Day 1, the side put in an exceptional performance. David Warner opened the innings with a knock of 119 runs, Michael Clarke completed his double ton, scoring 230 runs, with Michael Hussey completing his century as well. Australia finished the proceedings., scoring 482 runs at the loss of five wickets.

2) 494 – AUS vs SA at Sydney in 1910

The second-highest team score on the opening day of a Test was also made by Australia when they took on South Africa in the first Test of the series in December 1910. Batting first, the side posted a total of 494 runs with the loss of six wickets as day 1 closed out. Warren Bardsley scored 132 runs, with Clem Hill scoring 191 runs in the first innings of the clash.

1) 506 – PAK vs ENG in 2022 at Rawalpindi

The highest-ever score made on the opening day of a Test was scored by England, with Bazball taking centerstage. The Ben Stokes-led side put it all on the line against Pakistan in the first Test of the series in December 2022. Day 1 of the clash ended with England scoring 506 runs at the loss of four wickets, which remains the highest-ever score on the opening day of a Test.