Scott Boland Sets New Record for Best Bowling Average in Test Cricket Since 1915

In a remarkable achievement, Australian fast bowler Scott Boland has set a new record for the best bowling average in Test cricket since 1915. During the third Test against the West Indies, Boland's impressive performance helped him achieve an average of 17.33, the best in over a century for bowlers who have bowled at least 2000 balls. As Australia navigates through the match, Boland's contributions have been pivotal in securing a first-innings lead. Discover more about this historic milestone and the ongoing Test match dynamics.
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Scott Boland Sets New Record for Best Bowling Average in Test Cricket Since 1915

Historic Achievement by Scott Boland


Jamaica: Australian pacer Scott Boland has made history by achieving the best bowling average among Test bowlers since 1915, for those who have bowled at least 2000 deliveries in the longest format of the game.


This remarkable milestone was reached during the third Test match against the West Indies at Sabina Park, where Boland recorded impressive figures of 3 for 34. His current Test bowling average is now an outstanding 17.33, marking him as the best bowler in the last 110 years of Test cricket with a minimum of 2000 balls bowled.


The only bowler with a better record since 1900 is England's Syd Barnes, while the other six bowlers ahead of Boland all played in the 1800s, during the early days of Test cricket, according to reports from the ICC.


After Australia managed only 225 runs in their first innings, they bounced back strongly, utilizing their four-pronged pace attack to dismiss the West Indies for just 143, thus securing a first-innings lead.


Boland played a crucial role in disrupting the West Indies' top scorer, John Campbell, who made 36 runs. Campbell fell victim to a delivery that turned back into his pads, while Boland's precise angle and seam also led to the dismissal of Shai Hope for 23. He later wrapped up the innings by bowling Shamar Joseph, helping Australia establish an 82-run lead.


However, the West Indies fought back late on the second day, leaving Australia in a precarious position at 99 for 6 in their second innings, with a lead of 181 runs when play was halted.


Despite this, Australia's first-innings advantage provides them with a buffer. With Cameron Green not out on 42 and captain Pat Cummins at the crease with 5 runs, the Australians aim to extend their lead to over 220, potentially reaching 250 on Day 3.


Top Test Bowling Averages Since 1915

Here are the best Test bowling averages for cricketers active since 1915, with a minimum of 2000 deliveries bowled:



  • Scott Boland (2021-Present): 59 wickets at 17.33

  • Bert Ironmonger (1928-1933): 74 wickets at 17.97

  • Frank Tyson (1954-1959): 76 wickets at 18.56

  • Axar Patel (2021-Present): 55 wickets at 19.34

  • Jasprit Bumrah (2018-Present): 217 wickets at 19.48


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