5 memorable Test double centuries by wicket-keeper batsmen

#2 Adam Gilchrist, 204* against South Africa in 2002

Adam Gilchrist

The list of famous double hundreds from keepers would be incomplete without the mention of Adam Gilchrist’s 204 not out against South Africa at Johannesburg during the first Test in February 2002.

Batting first, Australia were in control courtesy hundreds from Matthew Hayden and Damien Martyn. Coming in at number seven, Gilchrist tormented the South African attack further, taking only 213 balls for his innings.

The left-hander smashed 19 fours and eight sixes at an unbelievable strike rate of 95.77, and at the time his double century (which came off 212 balls) was the fastest in Test history.

So taken aback were the Proteas by Gilly’s brutal assault that they succumbed to defeat by an innings and 360 runs.

#1 Andy Flower, 232* against India in 2000

Andy Flower

For a Zimbabwean batsman to stand up to a quality bowling attack needs special skill and temperament. Andy Flower had both in abundance, and they were on full display during his unbeaten 232 against India at Nagpur during the second Test in November 2000.

The knock is rated so highly because it came after Zimbabwe were made to follow-on in the Test. Flower’s marathon innings had him occupying the crease for 544 minutes during his 444-ball stay.

He hit 30 fours and two sixes in a knock that greatly frustrated India, evident from the fact that they ended up trying 10 bowlers in the second innings.