Top 6 scores by a batsman while carrying his bat through a Test innings

#1 Alastair Cook – 244 vs Australia (2017)

Alastair Cook silenced his critics in style

When England played the Ashes down under in 2017/18, they were 3-0 down after the first three Tests. They had their moments but didn’t capitalize on them and hence, Australia had regained the Ashes. With a couple of Tests to go, the possibility of a 5-0 whitewash loomed large.

Alastair Cook, who had gone through a lean patch, was being scrutinized. Experts started doubting his place in the side. He had gone through a phase where he couldn’t get past the 25-run mark. In fact, in the 10 innings he batted after he scored 243 against the West Indies, he crossed 25 just once.

In the 4th Test (Boxing Day Test) at the MCG, Australia made 327 batting first. England had scored 300+ twice in the six innings of the series. Desperate to avoid another defeat, they needed their senior players to step up. Alastair Cook did that and responded to his critics with a magnificent 244.

He batted for about 10 and a half hours as he defied a brilliant Australian bowling attack. He played Nathan Lyon particularly well. The Essex opener struck 27 boundaries in his 409-ball stay at the crease. Australia suddenly couldn’t get past Cook as he batted with supreme concentration. Hence, he carried his bat through and registered the highest score by a batsman while carrying his bat.

Cook’s monumental effort helped England reach 491 in their first innings. A slow pitch and an excellent hundred from Steve Smith helped Australia draw the game.