From 26 All Out to 36: Top 10 Lowest Score in Test Cricket

Test cricket is known for slow pace cricket and often concluded with a big score. But do you know what is the lowest score in test cricket?

New Zealand holds this unfortunate record, having been bowled out for just 26 runs against England in 1955 at Eden Park, Auckland. But this is not alone the lowest test score. In fact, the lowest team score in Test cricket history might surprise even the most seasoned fans. Let’s explore the lowest team score in test cricket history.

Lowest Score in Test by a Team

The lowest score in Test by a team is 26 runs, recorded by New Zealand against England in 1955 at Eden Park, Auckland. In that innings, the Kiwi batting lineup collapsed in just 27 overs, with no player reaching double digits. This remains the lowest team total in the history of Test cricket.

England scored 246 in their first innings, with contributions from Len Hutton (53) and Peter May (50), New Zealand managed just 89 in reply. In the second innings, facing bowlers Bob Appleyard (4/7) and Frank Tyson (2/10), New Zealand were bowled out for just 26 runs in 27 overs.

Top 10 Lowest Score in Test Cricket History

The lowest Test score in an inning is held by New Zealand, which made just 26 runs. Other low scores include West Indies (27) vs Australia, and South Africa with 30, 35, and 36—all against England. South Africa holds the record for the most low-score innings in Test history.

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South Africa – 30 vs England (1896)

At Port Elizabeth, South Africa was bowled out for just 30 runs in their second innings. England’s George Lohmann was the standout, taking 8 wickets for 7 runs in 9.4 overs. The match ended within two days, with England winning by an innings and 20 runs.

South Africa – 30 vs England (1924)

At Edgbaston, Birmingham, South Africa collapsed for 30 runs in their second innings and recorded another lowest score in Test. England’s pace duo Maurice Tate (4/12) and Arthur Gilligan (6/7) demolished the batting lineup. The match ended with England winning by an innings and 18 runs.

South Africa – 35 vs England (1899)

At Newlands, Cape Town, South Africa was dismissed for 35 runs in their first innings. Schofield Haigh (6/11) and Johnny Tyldesley (4/19) did the damage for England. The match ended in a 210-run win for England.

South Africa – 36 vs Australia (1932)

In Melbourne, South Africa managed only 36 runs in their second innings and logged 5^th lowest test score in cricket history. Bert Ironmonger was lethal, claiming 5 wickets for 6 runs, while Tim Wall supported with 3/14. Australia won the match by an inning and 72 runs.

Australia – 36 vs England (1902)

At Edgbaston, Birmingham, the Australian team was bowled out for 36 runs in the first innings. Wilfred Rhodes (7/17) ripped through the Aussie lineup. Despite the collapse, Australia fought back and the match ended in a draw due to rain.

Ireland – 38 vs England (2019)

At Lord’s, Ireland scored 38 runs in their second innings. Chris Woakes (6/17) and Stuart Broad (4/19) dismantled the Irish batting order in just 15.4 overs. England won the match by 143 runs despite being bowled out for 85 in their first innings.

India – 36 vs Australia (2020)

At Adelaide Oval, India was dismissed for 36 runs in their second innings and registered its lowest in Test history. Josh Hazlewood (5/8) and Pat Cummins (4/21) led the Australian bowling attack. India had a first-innings lead but lost the match by 8 wickets.

New Zealand – 42 vs Australia (1946)

In Wellington, New Zealand was bowled out for 42 runs in their second innings. Bill O’Reilly took 5/14 and Ernie Toshack claimed 4/12. Australia won by an innings and 103 runs in what was New Zealand’s first official Test after World War II.

Australia – 42 vs England (1888)

At Sydney Cricket Ground, Australia scored 42 runs in the first innings. George Lohmann was dominant with 5/17. England won the match comfortably by 126 runs, as bowling conditions heavily favored seamers on a difficult pitch.

India’s Lowest Test Scorecard