Scoring a most double centuries in cricket is a monumental achievement, showcasing a player’s endurance, skill, and dominance over the opposition. While centuries are celebrated, reaching the 200-run mark in a single innings is a rare and extraordinary feat. Over the years, several legendary cricketers have set records for the most double centuries in Test and One-Day Internationals (ODIs), solidifying their legacy in the game. This article highlights the top 10 cricketers with the most double centuries in international cricket, examining their performances, notable innings, and impact on the sport.
Criteria for Ranking
The players on this list are ranked based on the following factors:
- Total Number of Double Centuries: Players with the most 200+ scores in Test and ODI cricket.
- Consistency and Longevity: Performance across different eras and conditions.
- Format Consideration: The primary focus is on Test cricket, where double centuries are more common.
- Impactful Innings: Contributions in match-winning or record-breaking performances.
Top 10 Players with Most Double Centuries
1.Don Bradman The Greatest Batsman in Cricket History
Most double centuries in cricket Sir Donald Bradman, often hailed as the greatest batsman of all time, redefined the art of batting with unmatched consistency. Across his cricketing career, he played first-class and Test matches, amassing an extraordinary number of runs and centuries. His Test batting average of 99.94 remains an unbreakable record, and he registered 12 double centuries in just 52 Test matches. His most notable innings include 334 vs England (1930) and 299 vs South Africa (1932)*. Bradman’s impact on cricket is unparalleled, and his legacy continues to inspire cricketers worldwide.
Don Bradman Overall Career Statistics
| Format | Matches | Innings | Runs | Highest Score | Centuries | Double Centuries | Fifties |
| Test | 52 | 80 | 6,996 | 334 | 29 | 12 | 13 |
| First-Class | 234 | 338 | 28,067 | 452* | 117 | 37 | 69 |
Bradman’s records in both Test and First-Class cricket remain a benchmark for batting excellence, making him an immortal figure in the sport.
2.Kumar Sangakkara Sri Lanka’s Batting Maestro
Most double centuries in cricket Kumar Sangakkara, one of Sri Lanka’s greatest batsmen, was known for his elegance, technique, and consistency at the crease. Across his illustrious career, he scored 11 double centuries, making him one of the highest double-century scorers in Test cricket. His ability to play long, match-winning innings was evident in some of his most memorable knocks, including 319 vs Bangladesh (2014) and 287 vs South Africa (2006). With a stellar Test average of 57.40, Sangakkara cemented his place among the all-time greats of the game.
Kumar Sangakkara Overall Career Statistics
| Format | Matches | Innings | Runs | Highest Score | Centuries | Double Centuries | Fifties |
| Test | 134 | 233 | 12,400 | 319 | 38 | 11 | 52 |
| First-Class | 260 | 436 | 19,453 | 319 | 63 | 19 | 87 |
Sangakkara’s records showcase his remarkable consistency and ability to deliver under pressure, making him a true legend of the game.
3.Brian Lara The Prince of Trinidad
Most double centuries in cricket Brian Lara, one of the most flamboyant and stylish batsmen in cricket history, was known for his ability to play marathon innings. He holds the record for the highest individual score in Test cricket (400)*, a record-breaking knock against England in 2004. Lara scored 9 double centuries in his career, with other notable innings including 375 vs England (1994). His double centuries were often scored under immense pressure, showcasing his match-winning abilities and dominance over bowlers.
Brian Lara Overall Career Statistics
| Format | Matches | Innings | Runs | Highest Score | Centuries | Double Centuries | Fifties |
| Test | 131 | 232 | 11,953 | 400* | 34 | 9 | 48 |
| First-Class | 261 | 440 | 22,156 | 501* | 65 | 19 | 111 |
Lara’s ability to take on any bowling attack and produce historic innings under pressure cements his place as one of the greatest batsmen of all time.
4.Wally Hammond England’s Pre-War Batting Genius
Most double centuries in cricket Wally Hammond was one of England’s finest batsmen, known for his elegant yet aggressive batting style. A dominant force in pre-war cricket, he scored 7 double centuries, making him one of the most prolific run-scorers of his era. His most notable innings was a breathtaking 336 against New Zealand in 1933*, showcasing his ability to build massive scores. Hammond was a key figure in England’s batting lineup and remains one of the greatest batsmen the country has ever produced.
Wally Hammond Overall Career Statistics
| Format | Matches | Innings | Runs | Highest Score | Centuries | Double Centuries | Fifties |
| Test | 85 | 140 | 7,249 | 336* | 22 | 7 | 24 |
| First-Class | 634 | 1005 | 50,551 | 336* | 167 | 36 | 185 |
Hammond’s immense contributions to English cricket and his ability to dominate bowlers of his time solidify his legacy as a true legend of the game.
5.Virat Kohli The Modern-Day Batting Maestro
Most double centuries in cricket Virat Kohli is one of the finest batsmen of the modern era, known for his exceptional fitness, technique, and consistency. He is the only Indian captain to score 7 double centuries in Test cricket, a testament to his ability to convert big scores. His most memorable innings include 254 vs South Africa (2019)* and 243 vs Sri Lanka (2017). Kohli’s hunger for runs and his dominance across all formats make him one of the greatest cricketers of his generation.
Virat Kohli Overall Career Statistics
| Format | Matches | Innings | Runs | Highest Score | Centuries | Double Centuries | Fifties |
| Test | 113 | 191 | 8,848 | 254* | 29 | 7 | 30 |
| First-Class | 142 | 230 | 11,759 | 254* | 42 | 7 | 41 |
Kohli’s impact on Indian cricket and his relentless pursuit of excellence have solidified his place among the greatest batsmen in the history of the game.
6.Mahela Jayawardene Sri Lanka’s Master of Big Scores
Most double centuries in cricket Mahela Jayawardene was a technically gifted batsman known for his ability to build massive innings with elegance and precision. A key figure in Sri Lanka’s golden era, he registered 7 double centuries in Test cricket, including a career-best 374 against South Africa in 2006, which remains the highest individual score by a Sri Lankan batsman. His calm demeanor and leadership made him one of the most respected players in world cricket.
Mahela Jayawardene Overall Career Statistics
| Format | Matches | Innings | Runs | Highest Score | Centuries | Double Centuries | Fifties |
| Test | 149 | 252 | 11,814 | 374 | 34 | 7 | 50 |
| First-Class | 259 | 413 | 19,634 | 374 | 51 | 9 | 89 |
Jayawardene’s consistency and ability to perform on the biggest stage solidify his legacy as one of Sri Lanka’s greatest batsmen.
7.Virender Sehwag The Sultan of Multan
Most double centuries in cricket Virender Sehwag revolutionized Test cricket with his aggressive and fearless batting approach. Known for his ability to dominate bowlers from the start, he scored 6 double centuries, including two triple centuries. He holds the record for the fastest triple century in Test cricket, reaching the milestone in just 278 balls against South Africa in 2008. His most memorable innings include 319 vs South Africa (2008) and 293 vs Sri Lanka (2009). Sehwag’s explosive style made him one of the most dangerous openers in cricket history.
Virender Sehwag Overall Career Statistics
| Format | Matches | Innings | Runs | Highest Score | Centuries | Double Centuries | Fifties |
| Test | 104 | 180 | 8,586 | 319 | 23 | 6 | 32 |
| First-Class | 191 | 318 | 15,758 | 319 | 42 | 11 | 65 |
Sehwag’s fearless batting style and ability to score at a blistering pace redefined the role of an opener in Test cricket, making him one of India’s most entertaining and impactful players.
8.Marvan Atapattu Sri Lanka’s Underrated Batting Stalwart
Most double centuries in cricket Marvan Atapattu was a prolific and technically sound opener who played a crucial role in Sri Lanka’s batting lineup. Often underrated, he had a remarkable ability to score big runs, registering 6 double centuries in Test cricket. His most notable innings include 249 vs Zimbabwe (1999) and *201 vs England (2001)**. Known for his patience and resilience, Atapattu consistently performed against some of the best bowling attacks in the world.
Marvan Atapattu Overall Career Statistics
| Format | Matches | Innings | Runs | Highest Score | Centuries | Double Centuries | Fifties |
| Test | 90 | 156 | 5,502 | 249 | 16 | 6 | 17 |
| First-Class | 223 | 361 | 15,332 | 249 | 45 | 8 | 72 |
Atapattu’s ability to play long innings and anchor the Sri Lankan batting lineup made him one of the most dependable openers in the country’s cricket history.
9.Younis Khan Pakistan’s Most Reliable Middle-Order Batsman
Most double centuries in cricket Younis Khan was one of Pakistan’s greatest batsmen, known for his grit, determination, and ability to perform under pressure. A key figure in Pakistan’s batting lineup, he scored 6 double centuries, including a monumental 313 vs Sri Lanka (2009) and *200 vs Zimbabwe (2013)**. Younis remains Pakistan’s highest Test run-scorer, holding multiple records for his country and consistently delivering in challenging conditions.
Younis Khan Overall Career Statistics
| Format | Matches | Innings | Runs | Highest Score | Centuries | Double Centuries | Fifties |
| Test | 118 | 213 | 10,099 | 313 | 34 | 6 | 33 |
| First-Class | 249 | 415 | 17,732 | 313 | 57 | 11 | 79 |
Younis Khan’s remarkable consistency and ability to deliver in high-pressure situations solidify his legacy as one of Pakistan’s finest cricketers.
10.Ricky Ponting Australia’s Legendary Captain and Run Machine
Most double centuries in cricket Ricky Ponting was one of Australia’s greatest batsmen and most successful captains, leading his team to multiple World Cup victories. Known for his aggressive yet composed batting, he amassed 6 double centuries in Test cricket. His most memorable innings include 257 vs India (2003) and 221 vs India (2012). Ponting was a dominant force in world cricket, consistently scoring runs against the best bowling attacks and setting new standards for leadership and performance.
Ricky Ponting Overall Career Statistics
| Format | Matches | Innings | Runs | Highest Score | Centuries | Double Centuries | Fifties |
| Test | 168 | 287 | 13,378 | 257 | 41 | 6 | 62 |
| First-Class | 289 | 489 | 24,150 | 257 | 82 | 11 | 106 |
Ponting’s legacy as one of the greatest batsmen and captains in cricket history remains intact, with his records and achievements inspiring future generations.
Stats & Records Most double centuries in cricket
- Most Double Centuries in Tests: Don Bradman (12), Kumar Sangakkara (11), Brian Lara (9).
- Most Double Centuries in ODIs: Rohit Sharma (3) the only player with three double tons in ODIs.
- Fastest Double Century: Nathan Astle (153 balls, vs England, 2002).
- Most 200+ Scores as Captain: Virat Kohli (7).
Analysis & Trends
- Evolution of Double Centuries: The rate of double centuries has increased with modern fitness levels and batting-friendly pitches.
- Impact of T20 Cricket: While aggressive batting styles help players score faster, longer innings are becoming rarer due to limited-over formats.
- Dominance of Asian Players: Sri Lankan and Indian cricketers dominate this list, thanks to subcontinent conditions that favor batting.
Conclusion Most double centuries in cricket
Scoring a double century remains a testament to a batsman’s skill, patience, and dominance. Legends like Don Bradman, Brian Lara, and Kumar Sangakkara have set high standards in Test cricket, while modern-day stars like Virat Kohli continue to push records. As cricket evolves, the significance of long-format batting remains crucial, and future players will look to etch their names among the greats.
Who do you think will be the next cricketer to dominate this list? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
Read more: Top 10 Highest T20 Scores in Cricket History
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