Scott Boland Sets New Benchmark in Test Cricket with Historic Bowling Average

Scott Boland's Remarkable Achievement

In a stunning display of skill, Australia's leading fast bowler Scott Boland made headlines during Day 2 of the third Test against the West Indies at Sabina Park, Jamaica. His impressive figures of 3 wickets for 34 runs have lowered his career bowling average to an astonishing 17.33, a record that has not been matched by any Test bowler in the last 110 years, according to the ICC.

The only player with a better average in Test cricket history is Syd Barnes, an English cricketer from the early 1900s. Notably, all others with superior averages hail from the 1800s, highlighting Boland's exceptional consistency in the modern era.

Australia's first innings total of 225 seemed modest, yet the bowlers, led by Boland, put in a strong effort, restricting the West Indies to just 143 runs and securing an important 82-run lead.

Boland's key wickets included John Campbell, who misplayed a sharply turning delivery, and Shai Hope, who succumbed to Boland's precise bowling. He wrapped up the innings by bowling out Shamar Joseph.

Despite a late resurgence from the West Indies, Australia ended Day 2 with six wickets down, holding a lead of 181 runs. Cameron Green remained unbeaten on 42, while captain Pat Cummins was on 5.

Having already clinched the series 2-0 in the ICC World Test Championship, Australia is currently at the top of the WTC standings and aims to extend their dominance on Day 3.