In the riveting third Test match between Australia and the West Indies, the West Indies bore the brunt of a dismal record as their team was bundled out for a mere 27 runs in their second innings. Australia's meticulous performance secured a win by 176 runs, while the West Indies confronted one of the most infamous scorecards in Test cricket history. This marked the lowest total in West Indies cricket history, only a single run ahead of New Zealand's notorious 26. For context, the lowest score in a Test match stands recorded by New Zealand.
Starc's Spellbinding Performance Turns the Tables
On the grand stage of his 100th Test, Mitchell Starc dazzled with a sublime performance, wreaking havoc on the West Indies with his new ball magic. With the very first delivery, he deceived John Campbell, sparking a chain of events that saw him claiming five wickets in a span of just 15 balls. This remarkable achievement set a new record for the fastest five-wicket haul in Test cricket, shattering Arnie Toshack’s 79-year-old record.
Boland’s Hattrick Ends Windies’ Resistance
While Starc dismantled the top order, Scott Boland swept through the tail-end with fiery accuracy. He clinched a remarkable hat trick, dismissing Justin Greaves, Shamar Joseph, and Jomel Warrican in succession. Boland's prowess saw him joining the elite group of Australian bowlers who have achieved a Test hat trick.
Seven Batsmen Fail to Open Their Accounts
In just 14.3 overs, the West Indies were bowled out for 27, inscribing their lowest-ever Test score and standing as the second-lowest in Test history. Shockingly, seven batsmen couldn’t open their accounts, with only four players managing to score, and the top six collectively accumulating just 6 runs. Australia's substantial 176-run victory sealed a 3-0 series win.
Lowest Scores in Test History
The legacy of the lowest Test scores casts an enduring shadow across cricket, with New Zealand’s 26 against England in 1955 remaining the nadir. The West Indies' 27 now follows closely after their display against Australia. South Africa features thrice in this unenviable list, being dismissed for 30 twice, in 1896 and 1924, and once for 35 in 1899.
