Top 5 highest first innings totals to result in losses

#2 Australia, against England – Sydney – December, 1894

The Australian team of 1894

The 1^st Test of the 1894/95 Ashes saw Australia pile up 586 in their first innings. A double century from 242 balls by Syd Gregory and a 161 from George Giffen formed the backbone of Australia’s run feast.

England looked overwhelmed by the target and were bowled out for 325, conceding a huge lead of 261. England were made to follow-on and opener Albert Ward set the platform with a superb hundred. 10 of their batsmen reached double figures as England posted 437 on the board setting Australia a target of 177 to win.

Australia began confidently and reached 113/2 at close of play on Day 5, requiring 64 on the last day to win with 8 wickets in hand [6 day Tests]. They proceeded to a score of 130/3 before a dramatic collapse in the hands of left arm spinner, Bobby Peel, saw them bowled out for 166. As many as 9 wickets fell in the final session of play, 6 of which were taken by Peel.