5 most successful Australian batting pairs in Tests

#3 Michael Slater and Mark Taylor

Michael Slater and Mark Taylor

Michael Slater was probably the first modern opening batsman who made the prototype of an ultra-aggressive opener in Test matches popular. Along with the then Australian captain Mark Taylor, he formed an outstanding opening partnership from 1993 to 1999. The pair batted together on 78 occasions and added 3887 runs at an excellent average of 51.14.

Slater's stroke play coupled with Taylor's patient batting formed the perfect opening combination and the duo was instrumental in much of Australia's success in that era. They crossed 100 on 10 occasions and made in excess of 50 16 times. Their highest partnership was the 260 they made at Lord's during Australia's triumphant Ashes tour back in 1993. The Australian cricket team's ascent to the top of world cricket started during this era and this particular opening duo had a lot to do with it.