West Indies were all out for just 27 runs, making it the second lowest total in Test cricket history
Test cricket, the oldest and most respected form of the game, has witnessed some of the most dramatic collapses in cricket history. From uncovered pitches in the 1800s to pink-ball matches in the modern era, several teams have found themselves bundled out for alarmingly low totals. Here’s a look at the lowest total in Test cricket and other records that follow.
Top 10 Lowest Team Totals in Test Cricket
| Sr. No | Team | Score | Opponent | Venue | Result | Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | New Zealand | 26 | England | Auckland | Lost | 25 Mar 1955 |
| 2 | West Indies | 27 | Australia | Kingston | Lost | 12 Jul 2025 |
| 3 | South Africa | 30 | England | Gqeberha | Lost | 13 Feb 1896 |
| 4 | South Africa | 30 | England | Birmingham | Lost | 14 Jun 1924 |
| 5 | South Africa | 35 | England | Cape Town | Lost | 01 Apr 1899 |
| 6 | South Africa | 36 | Australia | Melbourne | Lost | 12 Feb 1932 |
| 7 | Australia | 36 | England | Birmingham | Draw | 29 May 1902 |
| 8 | India | 36 | Australia | Adelaide | Lost | 17 Dec 2020 |
| 9 | Ireland | 38 | England | Lord’s | Lost | 24 July 2019 |
| 10 | New Zealand | 42 | Australia | Wellington | Lost | 29 Mar 1946 |
Top 5 List: Lowest Total in Test Cricket
1: New Zealand’s Infamous 26 All Out
The lowest total in Test cricket history belongs to New Zealand, who were bowled out for just 26 runs against England at Eden Park, Auckland on 25 March 1955. Facing a fierce English bowling attack that included Frank Tyson and Brian Statham, the Kiwi batters had no answer. Bob Appleyard cleaned up the tail with 4 for 7 as England won by an innings and 20 runs.
2: West Indies Collapse for 27 – 2nd Lowest Total in Test History
On 12 July 2025, West Indies were bowled out for 27 runs against Australia in Kingston, marking the second-lowest total in Test cricket. This shocking collapse happened during the third day of the day/night pink-ball Test. Mitchell Starc took 6 wickets for 9 runs, including a five-wicket haul in just 15 balls—the fastest ever in Test cricket.
Scott Boland added to the misery with a hat-trick, while West Indies suffered seven ducks in the innings. The hosts, chasing just 204, collapsed in 14.3 overs, surpassing their previous lowest of 47 against England in 2004.
3: South Africa’s Historic Lows – Multiple Entries in the Top 5
South Africa has had its fair share of batting collapses in Test history. They appear three times in the list of the five lowest totals.
3. South Africa – 30 All Out vs England (1896)
Played at Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth) on 13 February 1896, South Africa were bowled out for 30 runs in the fourth innings. England’s George Lohmann took 8 for 7 in the second innings and finished the match with 15 wickets for 45 runs.
4. South Africa – 30 All Out vs England (1924)
At Edgbaston, on 14 June 1924, the Proteas once again collapsed for 30 runs. Arthur Gilligan took 6 for 7, while Maurice Tate added 4 for 12. Despite a stronger second innings performance, South Africa lost by an innings and 18 runs.
5. South Africa – 35 All Out vs England (1899)
On 1 April 1899, at Cape Town, South Africa were chasing a target after England posted a solid second innings. They folded for 35 runs, with Schofield Haigh taking 6 for 11. This was a disappointing collapse after a promising start in the first innings.
What Went Wrong for West Indies in 2025?
In their day/night Test at Sabina Park, West Indies seemed in control, needing just 204 to win. But within a span of just over 14 overs, they crumbled under relentless pace attack. Mitchell Starc struck early, taking wickets with the first, fifth, and sixth deliveries of his spell. Boland’s hat-trick sealed their fate.
This performance not only set the second-lowest total in Test cricket but also raised serious questions about the Windies’ batting technique and mental preparation in pressure situations.
Conclusion: Lowest Total in Test Cricket – A Reminder of the Game’s Unpredictability
The lowest total in Test cricket is more than just a statistic. It’s a reflection of how unpredictable and ruthless the format can be. Whether it’s the swinging conditions in England or the pink ball under lights in the Caribbean, Test cricket continues to challenge even the best. As teams strive for consistency, collapses like these serve as historic reminders of cricket’s volatile nature.
Pakistan has announced their T20I team squad against Bangladesh, Click the link below to know more.
For more information, stay tuned.
