Highest individual score by batting position in Tests

#2 Len Hutton - 364 not out of 847 balls, for England against Australia, The Oval, Aug 1938.

Hutton is congratulated by opposition members after reaching a milestone

Noted down as one of the most courageous innings ever played by an opener, Len Hutton holds the second highest score by an opener and third highest score in tests overall. Aged 22 at the time and mentored by the great Hedley Verity, Len Hutton came into the test match looking to stamp his authority in the longest format of the game.

Drafted into the English side who had already conceded the Ashes series, the youngster’s marathon innings consisted of 35 fours and a massive amount of patience. Facing a strong Australian battery of bowlers, Hutton showcased a personification of concentration, stroking his way to a marvellous 364 of 847 balls, batting for almost 800 minutes in the game.

He stitched an important partnership with senior mate Leyland, which helped England to a position of strength in the third test. In the process of getting to 364, Hutton also registered the highest score by an English batsman against Australia. Almost 80 years after the mammoth knock, Hutton still holds the record for the highest individual score in the Ashes.